Taipei: Over 1,000 individuals have applied for 15 driver positions available in the first phase of Taiwan High Speed Rail Corp.'s (THSRC) largest-ever recruitment drive, as announced by the company on Tuesday. This overwhelming response comes as THSRC prepares to introduce new N700ST trains and expand services to cater to the increasing passenger demand.

According to Focus Taiwan, the initial group of new drivers began their training in September, with a second group expected to start training in November. THSRC has plans to recruit a total of 45 new drivers by the end of next year. Each new driver will receive comprehensive training to operate both the existing 700T trains and the new N700ST system, which includes classroom instruction, simulator sessions, and practical hands-on training.

The training process is slated to be completed in phases early next year, aligning with the testing schedule of the new trains on regular tracks. Currently, THSRC employs 213 train drivers, all of whom will also undergo training on the new N700ST system before they can manage the new trains.

THSRC has placed an order for 12 N700ST trainsets from Japan. The first trainset arrived in Taiwan in August and is currently undergoing testing, with the second expected to arrive by December. The N700ST train is anticipated to commence passenger service on July 1, 2027.

Applicants for the driver positions are required to possess at least a university degree, though no specific major is necessary. Individuals with backgrounds in science or engineering and strong English communication skills are preferred. The selection process involves a written test, aptitude test, interview, and medical examination, followed by approximately eight months of intensive training before candidates can qualify as train drivers.