Who are you and what is your role, what is the project that you are working on?
Anita Lutz is my name, I’m a Rolling Stock Training Officer based at Craigieburn Train Maintenance Facility, and I run training and assessment at all 6 depots across Melbourne.
Recently I’ve delivered training to the supervisors/production coordinators on the computer program for the new On Board Diagnostics on X’Trapolis and Siemens trains. I’ve also just completed training for the new DTI – comms on the comeng disk brake fleet.
Currently I running training on workshop cranes and refresher training on 1500V Overhead switching in the depot. I also review, write or re-write instructions, powerpoint presentations and assessments.
I often deliver safety training for new staff and contractors.
What does a typical day working at MTM look like for you?
A snapshot of an ordinary day would be something like – I arrive at work and set up for the day. I gather up any training materials, equipment, tools, PPE etc. If needed, I then negotiate with the supervisors as to getting access to the staff I’ve planned to train and assess. Then I train/assess staff or contractors. After that comes the admin, signing paperwork, scanning documents, filling in spreadsheets, filing documents, drawing up certificates and emailing them to companies.
How did you get started in Transport and what is your favourite thing about working here?
I had wanted to quit my old job, so when the new MTM facility was being built close to where I live, I thought that it would be a good idea to get a job close to home, servicing trains. I’m an electrician and thought I may as well try out for an electrical train servicing role. I was very happy to be employed by a large company. The other colleagues were very friendly.
How have you seen young people uniquely contribute to the projects that you have worked on?
I love their enthusiasm, their ideas and their interest. In my experience, they are keen to listen and learn. They offer a fresh new approach and share their knowledge. They have training and experience in technology and more advanced systems from school/university. Young people are often wiser as to how to set up or fix computers and mobile phones. They work hard and are keen to complete tasks and work well together.
Looking back what advice do you have for graduates or young transport professionals getting started in their career?
I would say, try not to be put off by others’ bad attitudes or rudeness. Try to call it out if possible and take on those difficult conversations. That you are not responsible for other people’s rotten language and behaviour. Learn as much as you can. There are some really wonderful genuine people who can teach you some amazing stuff. Find some good mentors for yourself, both formal and informal. Enjoy the ride.
What do you do outside of work to relax and have fun?
I’m an operational member of the local SES, which provides a lot of exciting times, skills training, and helping people in their hour of need. I try to stay fit and healthy and participate in many events in the Police and Emergency Games each year.
I take my nieces to brownie guides and assist the leaders in the weekly sessions and activities and camps that the girls go on.
I also attend the Metro Trains Toastmasters club to try to reduce my public speaking anxiety and improve my speeches and impromptu speaking and helping others improve theirs too. I’m on the committee for the club fulfilling many leadership roles over the years. It’s a great way to meet other people in the business and to get to know them better as well.
My parkrun adventures have taken me all over Victoria to participate in the 5km run every Saturday morning. I’ve been a member of a few different running clubs where I’ve made new friends. I mainly go camping but enjoy nice accommodation too.
