Training for Operations Managers

Training for operations managers (TOM) is a programme developed by TÜV SÜD for railway companies that are either commencing passenger operations for the first time or are upgrading their operations to a higher standard.

The programme is specifically structured to ensure that participants with existing experience, and those career changers with a suitable background, can understand and benefit from it.

Operations managers are vital to railway network safety and efficiency. Their performance directly influences service quality and the rail network’s operational cost effectiveness. Effective and comprehensive training of operations managers and other decision makers is therefore of utmost importance.

The TOM training programme ensures that participants with a non-technical background gain essential system knowledge and those from technical fields expand their organisational and operational competence, all within a compact timeframe.

The training is therefore a valuable prerequisite for operations managers and other decision makers who want to fulfil their responsibilities for daily system operation, whilst ensuring compliance with safety requirements.

TÜV SÜD supports rail manufacturers, operators and authorities with a comprehensive portfolio of testing, inspection, certification, advisory and training services.

We have more than 50 years of experience in urban rail projects such as LRT and metro projects. We have supported stakeholders and railway authorities on many projects around the world.

Our experts are globally recognised as technical experts. They have the necessary high-level experience to adapt training content to meet national conditions and your specific business needs.

TOM covers the three fundamental knowledge areas of technology, organisation and operation, with the objectives of:  

• Establishing an understanding of the system.
• Creating awareness of the required safety levels throughout all layers of system operators (management, operations, maintenance).
• Training and certifying operations managers and other decision makers.
• Maintaining and developing the level of safety required for operation and maintenance of the system.

To provide the best value, the TOM programme is divided into modules. Generic modules are delivered comprehensively or can be customised to meet your specific requirements. In addition, other modules can be tailored to the operational environment of your company and national regulatory requirements, as well as your participants’ knowledge level and objective qualification level.

Training consists of theoretical modules with presentations and discussions, as well as practical modules such as plant tours and discussions with experienced operating personnel. The workshops can be held online or through classroom sessions on-site, depending on your requirements.

• Part 1 – Introduces the technical basics of the systems and the requirements for safe operation.
• Part 2 – Discusses all subsystems and components of an urban rail system (such as rolling stock, tracks, tunnel, signaling, power supply and auxiliary systems) in detail, focusing on the main features and characteristics, alongside safety functions.
• Part 3 – Teaches and discusses the application of operations management and maintenance for those in operational roles. To optimise learning success, questions and answer sessions are held between trainers and participants, and performance checks are carried out throughout the programme.