【対談】運転士・袖山里穂 × 元名鉄・西上いつきが大いに語る！運転の難しさ、楽しさ…そして写真集第３弾は！？

Summary

This transcript features an in-depth conversation with a railway worker, discussing their experiences transitioning from a conductor to a train driver. They reflect on the challenges and rewards of their job, including the unique bond with passengers, the technical skills required for driving, and the complexities of working solo during off-peak hours. The speaker shares insights on the nuances of train operation, such as managing ticket sales and ensuring safety, while emphasizing the importance of customer interaction and personal growth. The conversation conveys the speaker’s passion for their work and commitment to the railway's success.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker enjoys interacting with passengers, especially when passengers wave at the train driver from the platform, creating a sense of connection.
• 😀 Transitioning from a conductor to a train driver has been a challenging but rewarding experience, especially learning the responsibilities of one-man operations.
• 😀 Being a train driver involves multitasking, from handling ticket sales and money collection to ensuring passenger safety by monitoring door operations.
• 😀 The driver reflects on the differences between being a conductor, where they can see the passengers’ boarding stations, and the driver role where they must memorize and keep track of passenger movements.
• 😀 The driver shares the challenge of using a 'dead man' safety device, requiring them to constantly keep their foot on a pedal to ensure the train stops in case of an emergency.
• 😀 The driver emphasizes the importance of driving with care, especially while braking, drawing parallels to preventing sudden jerks that could harm a baby in a stroller.
• 😀 The driver expresses a desire to be a better and more skilled train operator, appreciating the positive feedback from passengers who have witnessed their improvement.
• 😀 Safety and smooth operations are the driver's top priorities, with a strong focus on operating the train gently to ensure a pleasant ride for passengers.
• 😀 The driver has developed a deeper connection with passengers and feels a strong sense of responsibility to the community, often reciprocating their appreciation through small gestures like giving out sweets on special occasions.
• 😀 The speaker is still in the process of mastering the duties of a train driver, and while they have a long way to go, they are committed to learning and improving every day.

Q & A

1. What does the interviewee find enjoyable about being a train driver compared to being a conductor?

As a train driver, she enjoys interacting with passengers in a different way, such as seeing people wave from along the railway line and responding with the horn. Although it differs from face-to-face customer service, it still provides meaningful moments of connection.

2. Why did she initially feel sad about transitioning from conductor to driver?

She felt sad because, as a conductor, she had close, direct contact with passengers through ticket sales and conversations. She thought becoming a driver would reduce those personal interactions.

3. What challenges does she face during one-man (single-operator) operations?

During one-man operations, she must handle driving, door control, ticket collection, and money management simultaneously. This requires dividing her attention between safe train operation and customer service tasks.

4. Why is handling fares more difficult as a driver than as a conductor?

As a conductor, she could see where passengers boarded and immediately ask for their destination. As a driver, she must memorize where each passenger boarded and calculate fares later, which becomes complicated when multiple passengers are involved.

5. What safety concerns does she have when managing doors?

She must carefully confirm whether passengers are boarding or alighting, especially at night or at stations with limited visibility, to avoid closing the doors while someone is still trying to get on.

6. What is the 'deadman device,' and why does she find it challenging?

The deadman device requires the driver to continuously press a pedal with their foot to ensure the train stops if the driver becomes incapacitated. She finds it physically demanding, especially while adjusting to different train models with varying controls.

7. How does she measure her growth as a train driver?

She notices gradual improvement as she becomes familiar with each train’s characteristics. Positive feedback from regular passengers, who comment that her driving has improved, also gives her a sense of progress.

8. What is her braking philosophy when operating the train?

She prioritizes smoothness and minimizing shock. She imagines a baby on board and aims to brake gently to avoid sudden jolts that could cause discomfort or danger.

9. How does she approach train acceleration?

She uses gradual and careful acceleration techniques, often applying power in small increments to ensure a smooth ride and maintain passenger comfort.

10. In what ways does she try to show appreciation to passengers?

She distributes small treats during events like Halloween and Valentine’s Day as a gesture of gratitude. She feels strongly about giving back to passengers who support the railway.

11. What are her future goals as a train driver?

Rather than focusing on distant goals, she is currently concentrating on improving her skills and handling daily responsibilities. Ultimately, she wants to contribute to the railway’s continued operation and ensure safe, reliable service.

12. What overall impression does the interview give about her attitude toward her job?

The interview portrays her as dedicated, thoughtful, and passionate. She values safety, continuous learning, and strong relationships with passengers, demonstrating both professionalism and heartfelt commitment.