Trains Don’t Move Without Engineers

Catherine Addor
May 23
2 min read

Leading the Whole System

We all know the saying “trains don’t move without engineers”, but have we ever really thought about what that means?

It’s easy to get caught up in how sleek the train looks, how many passengers are aboard, or how quickly we’re moving toward the next stop. But none of that matters without someone at the front who knows how to operate the system, respond to signals, navigate unexpected turns, and take responsibility for the journey.

The engineer sees more than just the present moment. They know how the whole machine works. They’ve studied it, tested it, and keep learning as the tracks stretch forward. Their leadership is not performative; it’s essential.

In schools, businesses, nonprofits, and communities, leadership works the same way.

It’s not about being in charge. It’s about understanding the system .It’s about tending to the engine—the people, the purpose, the process, not just the speed.

Why the Whole System Matters

Too often, we silo ourselves:

Administrators stay in the “office car.”
Teachers or team leads stay in the “instruction car.”
Students or staff become passengers—expected to ride, not steer.

Strong leadership means bridging those divides. Leaders are the engineers and the connectors.

They see where breakdowns might occur and know how to collaborate to keep things on track.
They don’t just steer, they listen, adjust, and reinvest in the system itself.
When something stalls, they don’t blame the caboose; they inspect the engine, check the schedule, and look at the entire railway.

That kind of leadership is mindful, responsive, and sustainable.

Action Steps: Be the Engineer of Your System

Here are three ways to apply this mindset starting today:

1. Map the System You Lead: Visualize every part of your “train.” Who is onboard? Who keeps it running? Where are your blind spots? Draw it, label it, and reflect on who you check in with most, and who you might be missing.

2. Ride in Every Car Once a Month: Don’t just lead from the front. Schedule time to sit with different teams, observe classrooms, or walk through departments you don’t typically visit. Ask questions. Listen deeply. Then act based on what you learn.

3. Maintain the Engine Regularly: Engines need oil, attention, and downtime. So do systems. Build check-ins, wellness checks, and reflection spaces into your leadership routine. When the engine is neglected, the whole train suffers, even if it still looks like it’s moving.

Leadership isn’t about the title; it’s about responsibility for the whole journey.

So the next time you see a train gliding forward, ask yourself: