On April 4, 2025, the annual Job Shadow Day took place at the Transport Accident and Incident Investigation Bureau. The Bureau welcomed nine young participants who had the opportunity to learn about the Bureau’s overall mission, the specific nature of investigators' work, and their daily responsibilities.
The students shadowed investigators across all three sectors — aviation, railway, and maritime transport — showing great interest in the day-to-day investigation processes, actively asking questions and participating in discussions, thereby gaining a better understanding of the profession.
As part of the Job Shadow Day program, the participants also visited the Latvian National Armed Forces Coast Guard Service in Riga, Vecmīlgrāvis, as well as the Captain's Service Tower at the Port of Riga. During the visit, they learned about the Coast Guard’s functions and daily duties, which are closely linked to the work of the Bureau’s maritime investigation division.
In the railway sector, participants visited a train dispatching center, where they were introduced to various data acquisition and analysis methods used for train movement monitoring - essential for both operational management and investigations. This gave the students insight into how vital accurate data and coordination are for railway safety.
They also visited the railway level crossing control center, observing how the behavior of drivers crossing the tracks is monitored. The participants saw how violations are analyzed and how technology is used to investigate potential causes of incidents.
In the aviation sector, the students were introduced to the process of aviation incident investigation, the institutions involved and reviewed real examples of aviation accidents and incidents. They were also provided information about the aviation industry, including educational opportunities, career paths, and job specifics in Latvia. Additionally, they visited the Bureau’s aircraft hangar, where they examined an aircraft currently under investigation.
This day provided the students not only with new knowledge and practical experience but also encouraged them to reflect on the importance of safety in aviation, railway, and maritime transport systems, and to consider future career opportunities in the field.
Recognizing the students’ genuine interest, the Bureau’s staff concluded with satisfaction that the next generation sees a potential future in the meaningful, responsible, and unique profession of transport accident investigator — a role that plays a key part in improving safety in both Latvian and international transport systems.