
Jacob’s journey from train enthusiast to train driver
For Jacob, the sound of a train horn and the hum of the tracks have always been more than just background noise. Trains have been his world, his passion, and now, his career. At 24, Jacob has achieved his ultimate dream of becoming a suburban train driver for Adelaide Metro. A journey fuelled by hard work, determination, and the right support from the NDIS.
A love that started young
Jacob’s fascination with trains started early. After his parents separated, he and his brother would catch trains during their two-hour trips between homes. This wasn’t just any old commute for Jacob. It became his classroom. He started absorbing everything about the rail system, memorising routes, signals, and schedules.
“Part of the reason I wanted to become a train driver is to make sure everyone gets home safely,” Jacob says with pride.
Fast forward to his teenage years, and Jacob’s passion for trains turned into a full-fledged project. As a self-confessed “computer nerd,” Jacob built a train-driving simulator using a video game platform. Yes, you read that right! This wasn’t your average game. Jacob meticulously recreated Adelaide’s rail network, complete with accurate tracks, signals, and speeds.
“I did a lot of research thanks to Google,” he laughs. The results? A simulator so realistic it ended up giving him credits toward track knowledge in his formal training!
From passion to profession
When Jacob decided to turn his dream into reality, he wasted no time. He reached out to a local train driver for advice and enrolled in the “Safely Access the Rail Corridor” course. At the time, Jacob was working full-time as a night-fill manager, balancing night shifts with daytime training.
“It wasn’t easy, but I knew what I wanted, so I pushed through,” he says.
And his hard work paid off. He completed the course, aced his assessments, and was accepted into Adelaide Metro’s next intake pool.
Jacob’s attention to detail and focus are part of what make him such a natural fit for the role. He says his autism spectrum disorder (ASD) gives him a unique ability to thrive in the routine-driven environment of a train driver. “It’s where I’m at my best.”
He also manages social anxiety disorder, and for him, the quiet and focused atmosphere of the driver’s cab is a perfect match.
Powered by NDIS support
Jacob’s journey hasn’t been a solo effort. Over the past three years, he’s been supported by the NDIS, with services tailored to help him achieve his goals. He’s received support with social connection, life admin, occupational therapy, and speech pathology – all of which have been game-changers for his career and personal life.
Jacob’s Local Area Coordinator, Michael, has been a big part of his journey.
“Michael really knows his stuff when it comes to the NDIS. He’s been brilliant at creating a plan that suits me and executing it perfectly,” Jacob says.
The two caught up at Try Before You Ride, an annual event at Gawler Railway Station co-hosted by Feros Care. It’s all about helping people with disability feel more confident and independent using Adelaide’s train system. Jacob remembers seeing Michael in action. “He’s great with everyone. You can tell he really cares about what he’s doing.”
On track for a bright future
Today, Jacob is thriving in his role as a train driver. “Being up in the driver’s cab, helping people get where they need to go safely, it’s everything I’ve ever wanted,” he says.
Outside of work, Jacob is busy building another dream – his own home. It’s a milestone that’s been years in the making and a reflection of the hard work and determination that define his approach to life.
Jacob’s story is proof that with the right support, there’s no limit to what can be achieved. His focus, passion, and resilience, paired with the NDIS and his Feros Care team, have put him firmly on track for success.
“Being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and social anxiety disorder, shouldn’t hinder anyone’s ability to become what they want to be,” Jacob affirms as his final takeaway.
Want to achieve your goals like Jacob?
Feros Care’s NDIS local area coordination services are here to empower you to live life on your terms. Whether it’s building confidence, finding independence, or achieving your dreams, we’re here to support you. Reach out today and let’s get started.