Pros
Half decent money when you get regular working trips. Even better after time when you can maintain a spot in the common pools instead of the spareboards. Good discounts and perks from companies dealt with by CP. OK benefits, especially if combined with a spouse's. Excellent employees at your own level because there's a common understanding of the thumb you're all under.
Cons
Constant state of fear and anxiety. Rule books thicker than the bible that you're expected to memorize to every dotted i. Severe punishment for even the most minor infraction. Confusion over the rules leads to personal interpretations by management and investigations as well. Constantly pressured to move trains faster and skirt the rules too. Entrapment when trains are built wrong, and transport canada violations blamed on the crew instead of management when things go wrong.