2022 Archive
Real Railroaders 11212022
Supporting Our Troops: Hiscock Earns ESGR Patriot Award
Brett Hiscock, general director, Tech, was honored with an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Patriot Award for affirming Union Pacific’s military-friendly workplace culture. This Department of Defense award recognizes supervisors for their support of an individual employee’s military service.
Community 11172022
Santa May Deliver the Toys, But Union Pacific Brings the Tree
Union Pacific delivered a nearly 45-foot-tall blue spruce to The Durham Museum in Omaha, Nebraska, as part of a longstanding tradition that dates to 1931, when railroad crews first began cutting down and delivering the city’s official Christmas tree.
Innovation 11162022
Union Pacific’s State-of-the-Art Grain Transload Facility Is Win-Win for Ag Producers and Ocean Carriers
Located in the middle of some of the richest, most productive farmland in the nation, Union Pacific's new grain transload facility will reduce transportation costs for Midwest agricultural producers while creating efficiencies for ocean carriers and the nation’s overall supply chain.
Insights 11152022
2022 Climate Action Plan Provides Updates on Union Pacific’s Carbon Reduction Efforts
Union Pacific's second annual Climate Action Plan is a comprehensive report that outlines the strategic steps we are taking to reduce our operations’ impact on the environment.
Insights 11112022
For One Veteran, the Mission Continues at Union Pacific
Why do veterans like me, a former Navy Petty Officer, choose to pursue careers at Union Pacific, and more importantly, why do we stay? After all, 17% of UP’s workforce are veterans. Many of my veteran co-worker buddies will answer this question differently, but the common response is: Union Pacific is “mission focused.”
Real Railroaders 11102022
Sanders Makes Her Mark with Industrywide Innovation
Union Pacific's Katie Sanders strategically built and guided the team that tackled the on-time delivery of CADX, now nearing its one-year cutover anniversary. A multiyear effort by several departments, CADX was developed in-house and allows train dispatchers to line signals and switches while issuing restrictions and authorities through the system.
Innovation 11102022
On Track to Growth: New Mexico Siding Project Boosts Capacity
In 2022, Union Pacific will invest around $3.4 billion in capital – much of which will go toward hardening the railroad’s infrastructure and increasing capacity through siding extensions like the one recently completed in Oscuro, New Mexico.
Community 11102022
Union Pacific Strengthens Sustainability With ‘Construction’ of a New Foundational, Community Ties Giving Program Pillar
The new Environmental Sustainability pillar allows Union Pacific to support projects led by environmental nonprofits and community-based organizations that align with the company’s Community Ties Giving Program mission and sustainability goals.
Community 11072022
Union Pacific Supports "Women in the Workforce" at Anne's Haven in Chicago
Women who have been out of the workforce for a long time and are seeking to hone their interview skills or build a resume have a place to go in Chicago thanks to help from Union Pacific's Communities Ties Giving Program.
Real Railroaders 11042022
Rail Fan Provides Local Service on Rocky Mountain SU
Growing up in Palm Springs, California, Gabriel Treleani enjoyed counting the rail cars traveling alongside Interstate 10. Now, the 18-year railroader gets to inspire the next generation of dreamers.
Real Railroaders 11032022
Harris a Driving Force Behind Union Pacific’s Talent Strategy
As Union Pacific marches toward aggressive diversity goals – increasing its people of color population to 40% and doubling the female population to 11% by 2030 – Polly Harris is helping pave the way with steadfast leadership.
Insights 11012022
Railroads Are in the Spotlight of Economic Growth
As the world grapples with pandemic fallout, recessionary conditions, supply chain challenges and labor shortages, railroads remain a lynchpin for economic growth. For Union Pacific, that responsibility means safeguarding our employees, meeting customer commitments, responsibly supporting communities, and consistently delivering shareholder expectations.
Real Railroaders 10282022
Houston Craft Professional Proudly Represents Team UP
Eighteen-year railroader Jan Yates is a well-known figure on the Houston Service Unit.
Innovation 10212022
RailPulse: Next-Gen Rail Car Tracking
Union Pacific employees may notice some new tech riding the rails this fall – 50 rail cars equipped with a GPS device on the back are being released onto the network, providing real-time information and visibility of the car’s location, condition and health to shippers, rail car owners and railroads.
Real Railroaders 10192022
Chicago Service Unit Welcomes Team Player
Union Pacific’s Chicago Service Unit recently gained an experienced railroader, team player and safety advocate when Jeremy Stroud joined the local team operating Rochelle, Illinois’ Global 3 and West Chicago. His territory includes more than 100 miles of main line between Proviso, Illinois, and Clinton, Iowa. Stroud previously held the same role in Memphis, Tennessee.
Innovation 10142022
Loup Logistics Carrier Conference Builds Strong Connections
It takes a team to keep America’s supply chain in motion, and Union Pacific is helping tackle the middle mile by partnering with logistics leaders across its 23-state network.
Real Railroaders 10122022
Olsen Forges Ahead in Sustainability
Led by a spirited determination for change, Grace Olsen, general director-Locomotive Engineering and Quality, Mechanical, is breaking new ground in environmental sustainability – and her work is not going unnoticed.
Community 10102022
Union Pacific Marks World Mental Health Day With a Reminder - Help is Only a Phone Call Away
A simple truth in life is that all of us will struggle at some point in time with mental health, whether we are facing the end of a marriage or dealing with anxiety, stress or depression.
Safety 10072022
Preparation Leads to Timely, Safe Response for Hurricanes
To keep freight flowing in the Gulf Coast area known for hurricanes named Andrew, Camille, Harvey and Katrina, various railroad professionals from UP’s Engineering, Public Affairs and Transportation departments recently reached outside of the company to review and coordinate their severe weather plans.
Innovation 10042022
Driving Toward Sustainability: Union Pacific Grows Its Electric Vehicle Fleet
Union Pacific is putting employees in the driver’s seat to achieving the railroad’s sustainability goals by adding dozens of electric vehicles to its systemwide fleet. Over the next six months, 67 electric vehicles – 50 Ford Lightning pickups and 17 Ford Mustang Mach-Es – will be delivered to select field locations across the railroad’s 23-state network.
Community 10032022
Living United: Team UP Shares Time and Talent Systemwide to Support United Way
Union Pacific has developed strong relationships with local United Way chapters across its 23-state network. Last year, employee donations reached more than 150 communities, and Team UP is maintaining the momentum in 2022.
Heritage 09302022
Danish Man Builds Replica of Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014
2,656 Lego bricks. 762 instruction steps. 300 hours. That’s what it took for Denmark-based Lego superfan Lasse Hvidtfeldt to build a 3-foot-long replica of Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014 steam locomotive out of colorful plastic toy bricks.
Insights 09282022
Union Pacific Calls for Accuracy and Collaboration in Response to Houston Dioxin Study
In recent months, Union Pacific has been working with the city of Houston, Harris County, and the Bayou City Initiative to reach agreement on a publicly supported remediation plan for the former Southern Pacific Houston Wood Preserving Works (HWPW) site. Union Pacific welcomed input from the city, county, and Bayou City Initiative as it will add to the already robust and aggressive remediation plan we proposed that is pending approval with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
Real Railroaders 09262022
Conductor Richard Guerra Celebrates Forty-Five Years of Safe Service in the Pacific Northwest
Several decades ago, a high school kid named Richard Guerra signed on for a summertime steel and section gang job removing and replacing tracks in what would later become part of Hermiston, Oregon’s hump yard. Guerra stuck with it – turning his seasonal position into a 45-year Union Pacific career.
Real Railroaders 09232022
'Wes Saved My Life'
What began as a typical lunch at Houston’s Englewood Yard for Weston Smith, a 16-year Union Pacific railroader, quickly turned into an emergency requiring immediate action when a fellow teammate began choking.
Innovation 09222022
Union Pacific and Shell Form Strategic Alliance to Accelerate Sustainability across Industrial America
Union Pacific Railroad and Shell are joining forces to accelerate the decarbonization of rail transportation. The companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding that allows exploration and testing of several initiatives designed to help Union Pacific achieve its goal to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions 26% by 2030 and, ultimately, reach net zero by 2050. The initiatives would also contribute to Shell achieving its target to become a net zero energy business by 2050.
Real Railroaders 09212022
Whalen Thrives Navigating Supply Chain’s Choppy Waters
As the global supply chain experiences unprecedented disruptions, Union Pacific's Wendy Whalen has risen to the challenge. Whalen leads the team and strategy responsible for the development, deployment and sustainability of UP's strategic sourcing program.
Safety 09192022
Three Simple Things to Teach Your Loved Ones During National Rail Safety Week, Sept. 19-25
National Rail Safety Week is the perfect time for families to sit down and stress the importance of being alert and distraction free around railroad tracks.
Heritage 09162022
Union Pacific Refreshes Locomotive Paint Scheme, Keeping Iconic Flag Design
Union Pacific finalized its new locomotive paint scheme – moving the placement of but keeping its iconic flag design, which was rolled out over 20 years ago to honor the victims of 9/11. The first Union Pacific locomotive with the refreshed paint scheme is now in service.
Insights 09132022
Green Bonds Support Union Pacific's Sustainability Efforts
Companies use green bonds to raise funds for their own sustainability efforts, and Union Pacific is now among them. By linking our financing activity to our sustainability strategy, we can fund our most promising projects that will help to decarbonize our footprint and meet our sustainability goals. And those goals are aggressive.
Insights 08262022
Hard Hats and Spreadsheets – Union Pacific Internship Provided Real World Experience
I hadn’t considered a railroad career until meeting with Sandra Christen, Union Pacific senior manager-operations support, at my college’s career fair. I was captivated by the idea of getting to explore different places and getting a hands-on summer experience that included learning firsthand how America’s leading railroad company moves goods to people.
Real Railroaders 08262022
Four Generations of Sanchez Family Railroaders
Looking back on his life, Ryan Sanchez, Houston, Texas-based peer trainer and brakeperson, is hard-pressed to find a time when railroading wasn’t a part of it.
Heritage 08242022
Astronaut Megan McArthur Returns Big Boy Space Coin to Union Pacific
Union Pacific's Big Boy No. 4014 and the International Space Station are both testaments to humanity’s ability to dream big and push boundaries, says Megan McArthur Behnken, a NASA astronaut who took a Big Boy challenge coin to space with her in 2021.
Real Railroaders 08192022
Maxfield Family Boasts More Than 400 Years of Railroad Service
It takes a lot of digging and research to find a time when someone from Jeff Maxfield's family wasn't working for the railroad. In fact, the manager-Field Operations Support’s family collectively boasts more than 400 years of railroad service throughout five generations.
Safety 08182022
Have You Had the Talk With Your Family?
Union Pacific and Twin Cities Public Television (TPT) are partnering to make rail safety part of family conversations by launching a national multilingual rail safety campaign on multiple platforms.
Insights 08152022
All Parties Must Work Together to Keep Supply Chain Fluid
We know maintaining fluid operations at the ports we serve is important both to our customers and our economy. While Union Pacific is only one part of a supply chain that spans from factories in Asia to store shelves in your community or parcel deliveries to your doorstep, we will do all we can to ensure our part of the chain remains solid, connected, unbroken.
Insights 08122022
As Plastic Production Grows, Pledge Targets Resin Containment
Operation Clean Sweep is a product stewardship program of the American Chemistry Council and Plastics Industry Association designed to help companies that handle plastic resin share best practices as they work toward achieving zero plastic pellet loss and keep pellets out of our waterways.
Real Railroaders 08112022
Wichita Train Crew Brings Joy to Young Rail Fan
A Union Pacific train crew recently took a break from its usual routine for a moment to do a kind gesture for a young rail fan who regularly visits the Union Station in Wichita, safely waving from a distance as crews pass, hoping they will blast their horn.
Insights 08052022
Maha Festival Is Music to Union Pacific's Ears
Events like the Maha Festival, as well as the many other community activities and organizations Union Pacific sponsors through its Community Ties Giving Program, are important to the future of Omaha. They change how the city is reflected in national conversations, help the region attract talent, and give people another reason to stay living and working here.
Insights 08032022
The American West Was Created by Hope, Moxie and Steam
Union Pacific’s heritage steam program has brought people together through the decades. Across the American West, hundreds – maybe thousands – of communities exist not only because of the hopes of determined settlers looking for a better life, but because of the advent of the steam trains of the 19th century.
Innovation 08022022
Loup Logistics Earns 2022 Industry Honor for Logistics Excellence
Loup Logistics recently landed a spot on Inbound Logistics' 2022 list for excellence as a third-party logistics (3PL) provider.
Community 08022022
Union Pacific and National Park Foundation Plant Seeds of Outdoor Exploration
With the help of Union Pacific’s sponsorship, the National Park Foundation’s Open Outdoors for Kids Program expects to reach over a million students in the next four years, creating a unique opportunity for fourth graders to learn about and explore national parks.
Real Railroaders 07292022
Beekeeper Suits Up, Removes Texas Swarm at Union Pacific Yard
After a swarm of bees made its home in Union Pacific's Baytown, Texas yard, Nick Sahinen jumped on the opportunity to remove them. Sahinen also used this opportunity to educate his co-workers about the importance of bees in the environment, sharing he looks at bees from the perspective of the good work they do.
Innovation 07272022
Union Pacific Investment in Modernized Locomotives is Largest in History
Union Pacific’s recently announced agreement with Wabtec Corporation for 600 locomotive modernizations represents the largest-ever investment in modernized locomotives in rail industry history.
Heritage 07252022
Union Pacific Debuts New Locomotive Paint Scheme
Be on the lookout: A handful of Union Pacific locomotives are now sporting a fresh paint scheme shifting some key design elements, including moving the American flag closer to the front.
Insights 07222022
New Handheld Technology Is Transforming My Father’s Railroad
Technology is changing the role of the train crew and leading to a more reliable service product for Union Pacific customers. It’s also changing the lives of the people who run the trains.
Safety 07192022
Union Pacific and Safe Kids Worldwide: ‘Nothing’ Is Worth More Than Your Life
Union Pacific and nonprofit Safe Kids Worldwide teamed up to drive home an important message for families in a new rail safety video: Model rail safety, because ‘Nothing’ is worth more than your child’s life.
Real Railroaders 07182022
Gouger’s Leadership Instrumental to Union Pacific’s Growth Strategy
Cassie Gouger knows what it takes to lead a team and drive results.
Innovation 07152022
Air Forced One: A One-Trick Pony No Longer
Union Pacific’s Air Forced One fleet has blasted snow from tracks and switches for 20 years. Now, it’s not just snow in its path of destruction. This Maintenance of Way equipment is coming off the bench in the summer months to help deal with a different type of challenge for the railroad.
Innovation 07142022
From Steam to Green - Union Pacific Embraces Biofuels
Four Union Pacific locomotives providing service to a San Bernardino sand and gravel mine are running on 100% biomass-based fuel – the first time in Union Pacific’s history that a locomotive is being powered solely by a renewable fuel source made from vegetable and/or animal fats.
Insights 07132022
Second Chance Hiring: ‘All I Needed Was Someone to Believe in Me’
People both outside and inside my company have asked why Union Pacific is involved in Second Chance Hiring – the practice of hiring individuals with a criminal record. The following story from one of our employees helps illustrate some of the reasons behind the program and how it can change a life.
Real Railroaders 07132022
Nebraskan Brings Train Crew Experience to Union Pacific's Topeka Team
Manager-Yard Operations Taton Griebel believes each day on the job with his Union Pacific team provides an opportunity to grow and become better – safer and more efficient.
Insights 07112022
Innovative Recycling Solutions Support Shift to a Circular Economy
Union Pacific recently joined the Cyclyx consortium to partner with the member companies and lend our expertise to develop supply chain solutions for increasing recycling rates and advancing circular economies.
Insights 07082022
From Power Drills to Locomotives, Tech is Making Work Easier and Safer
Technology is forever changing the way we live our lives and do our jobs. It’s also changing how we’re working on the railroad.
Real Railroaders 07072022
Meet the Sorianos - Michael, Nen, Rick, Sal and Seth
Several decades ago, Southern Pacific Track Worker Enrique Soriano Del Rio started a family tradition that lives on today – all five sons followed in his footsteps, embarking on Southern Pacific and Union Pacific careers. Today, a third generation of Soriano's is making its mark.
Real Railroaders 07062022
Union Pacific Train Crew’s Quick Actions Help Save Trapped Woman
When Union Pacific Engineer Norm Garner noticed a woman waving from a water canal while piloting his train through the desert country of Wellton, Arizona, trouble didn’t cross his mind. After all, people sometimes swim in the canals. But then he began to replay the woman’s wave in his mind. Was it a little too frantic? And did she have a dog with her? After relaying his concerns to Conductor Andrew Mcafee, they reported the incident. Garner’s decision to honor his intuition and call for help likely saved a life.
Innovation 06282022
FRA Grants Improve Union Pacific’s Network Extension with Short Lines
Earlier this month, the Federal Railroad Administration announced more than $368 million in Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant program funds to 46 projects in 32 states and the District of Columbia.
Real Railroaders 06272022
Union Pacific Welders Act Fast, Administer First Aid in Kansas
Responding to traffic-halting emergencies isn’t in the job description for many welders. Nonetheless, Union Pacific welders Chris Cornejo and Jake Allen went beyond their everyday duties to help others in dire need.
Innovation 06172022
Driven Union Pacific Team Tackles Iowa Bridge Replacement
Replacing a 110-year-old bridge in 48 hours is an ambitious task no matter who you ask; accomplishing it in 30 hours deserves some major kudos. A cross-functional Union Pacific team recently did just that in Iowa.
Community 06152022
Union Pacific Funds Trade School Opportunities in Texas
Inspired by the growing need for workforce development initiatives, Union Pacific is partnering with Southwest Texas Junior College to expand industrial trade careers through the La Frontera ("The Border") Diesel Program Expansion Project.
Real Railroaders 06092022
Courage to Care Personified During Roadside Emergency
Displaying the Courage to Care spirit is not only for the workplace – it can also positively impact everyday life. This was the case for employees Derrick Beard and Lionel Nelson, detector car operators, while en route to a job site in Chicago.
Real Railroaders 06072022
Union Pacific's Diversity & Inclusion Trailblazer: Debbie Schrampfer
Schrampfer's work was instrumental in Union Pacific earning a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign’s 2022 "Best Places to Work for LGBTQ+ Equality." UP is the only Class I freight railroad earning a 100% rating on the list.
Real Railroaders 06022022
Deckard's 50-Year Railroad Journey Began with Only a Few Steps
During his 50-year railroad journey, Johnathan Deckard has served as a supervisor and general foreperson. He has worked at the RIP track, yard and on a wheel truck. He also has participated in Peer Support and Operation RedBlock. "I've done it all," Deckard said with a smile.
Real Railroaders 05312022
Twenty-Six Year Railroader’s Personality Shines in Fort Worth
Dale Turner has been working on the railroad for nearly 26 years – serving as a switchperson, brakeperson, conductor and then locomotive engineer for 19 of those years. Learn more about this engaging Union Pacific employee based in Fort Worth, Texas, and what makes him tick.
Real Railroaders 05272022
Wahl Keeps Pioneering as the Decades Roll By
Spending 50 years on the railroad hasn’t dulled Greg Wahl’s excitement for cutting-edge technology. In fact, the Bakersfield, California, locomotive engineer embraces new technology and commits himself to training his peers on how to use it.
Insights 05252022
Collective Action and Love Needed for Healing
Tuesday’s mass murder in Uvalde, Texas, and the mass murder that took place in Buffalo, New York, on May 14 continue a pattern of heart shattering violence in America. In these events and in others before them, people going about their normal lives – individuals, children, parents, grandparents – experienced their last moment on earth facing thoughtless, cowardly menace.
Innovation 05242022
Summer Interns Sign On For New Adventure at Union Pacific
College students from more than 40 nationwide colleges and universities were selected for UP’s three-month in-residence Intern Connection Program, which offers a mix of work experience, professional development and networking opportunities.
Real Railroaders 05202022
Welder Earns Degree through Union Pacific-UNO Partnership, Graduates with Honors
Welder Thomas Frey’s first three years with Union Pacific have been fast paced, as his work and home lives kept him moving. While Frey’s Houston Engineering gang travels the system, his three college student children and a fiancé keep him on his toes. But always up for a challenge, Frey decided to add one more thing to his plate – turning his associates into a bachelor’s degree.
Real Railroaders 05192022
'Greatest Train Set Ever': Daniel Finds Satisfaction in Moving Trains from Point A to Point B
Pancho Daniel said he wouldn’t trade his railroad career experience for the world, including a five-year stretch in the late 1970s and early 80s when he was a full-time presenter for the newly formed Operation Lifesaver, talking with schoolchildren throughout Nevada and Utah about railroad safety.
Real Railroaders 05192022
Carpenter Turned Manager: Building UP ‘Crisp’ Career Skills
Craig Crisp’s perspective has led him down a career path uniquely his own, recently earning him a promotion. This year, the 28-year railroader started a new position as a manager-Track Construction Projects. In this role, Crisp will evaluate and implement railroad capital project designs.
Community 05182022
Community Ties Giving Program: Where We Have Tracks, We Have Ties
Union Pacific’s tangible commitment to communities started nearly 70 years ago, when the Union Pacific Foundation was created to support local charitable, educational and scientific activities. Now part of the Community Ties Giving Program, the Foundation has awarded grants every year since its launch in 1955. Our annual, open request for proposals process is open through May 31.
Insights 05162022
For this 50-year Employee, Overcoming Challenges Was Just Part of the Job
Throughout my career I worked both inside and outside the office – in the railyard. The worst job was being a “mud hop” – working in the yard verifying rail cars on inbound and outbound trains, come rain or shine. In lousy weather it was unpleasant work. The men thought I would get discouraged and quit, but not this woman. I just put one foot in front of the other and kept going.
Real Railroaders 05132022
Union Pacific Employees Call on CPR Training to Save Team Member
In early March, Andrew Rohleder and Jose Zuazua were part of a welding fire watch team in Lincoln, California. When they returned from a break, Rohleder noticed a team member slumped over in the driver’s seat of their work vehicle.
Insights 05112022
For 30 Years, We Are Union Pacific de Mexico
We are proud to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Union Pacific’s Mexico franchise, which began May 8, 1992.
Community 05092022
Union Pacific Backs Bo’s Place in Houston
For more than three decades, Bo’s Place in Houston has been offering grief support to families, including age-appropriate services for children. And, since 2012, Union Pacific’s Community Ties Giving Program has supported Bo’s Place, donating $35,000 over the past decade.
Real Railroaders 05062022
Like Mother, Like Daughter for Hardworking Union Pacific Family
Union Pacific is celebrating trailblazers like the Sudds family as it focuses on doubling female representation to 11% by 2030 as part of its diversity, equity and inclusion goals to better reflect the communities it serves.
Innovation 05042022
Wired Up: Union Pacific's Rahul Jalali Earns Industry Honors
Rahul Jalali, Union Pacific’s senior vice president and chief information officer, recently earned a spot on Forbes CIO Next List, highlighting 50 technology leaders who are redefining the CIO role and driving game-changing innovation. He also was named one of Railway Age’s 2022 Readers’ Influential Leaders, nominated by subscribers as one of the industry’s top 10 influential individuals who are committed to service and making a difference.
Real Railroaders 05022022
Union Pacific Honors 50-Year Railroaders May 11
Union Pacific employees celebrating 50 years of railroading will be honored Wednesday, May 11, in a special ceremony with UP senior leadership at 11:30 a.m. CT on Facebook Live.
Community 04282022
Students Get ‘Behind the Wheel,’ Learn About Union Pacific Career Opportunities
As demand for freight transportation soars, Union Pacific is making early connections with young people due to enter the workforce.
Insights 04272022
Union Pacific Loves Baseball, But We Love Safety More
Union Pacific has serious safety and traffic concerns with the Oakland A’s proposed baseball stadium and a mixed-used residential/business development district next to two busy rail yards and a passenger rail station at Howard Terminal.
Innovation 04262022
Union Pacific Celebrates 40 Years of Supplier Diversity
In April 1982, Union Pacific became the first U.S. railroad to establish a formal supplier diversity program. That first year, the railroad spent $10 million with diverse businesses. Today, UP is proud to spend $520 million in goods and services from more than 275 diverse suppliers in 35 states.
Safety 04202022
Operation RedBlock Volunteers Lean In to Support Fellow Union Pacific Co-workers
For the safety of every Union Pacific team member, substance abuse can’t be a part of that equation. That’s why Operation RedBlock volunteers have been visiting crew rooms, team meetings and safety briefings for more than 40 years.
Innovation 04142022
Union Pacific’s Precision Gating Technology Speeds Driver Experience
In a world with constantly evolving supply chain challenges, every second counts. Union Pacific is meeting that need for speed by rolling out Fast Gate, allowing truck drivers to bypass the check-in kiosk when entering the railroad’s intermodal terminals.
Insights 04132022
On the Right Path While Building America
Our just-released 2021 Building America Report is focused on our most important ESG topics and reflects changes in how we're approaching our sustainability strategy, called Building A Sustainable Future: 2030.
Safety 04082022
Make the Call: Unsafe Motorist Reporting Makes an Impact
Rural doesn’t always mean quiet. Take for example the highway-rail grade crossing on Union Pacific’s Laredo Subdivision in LaSalle County, Texas. Oil and gas exploration activities in the area mean large machinery and local traffic regularly traverse this hot spot.
Real Railroaders 04062022
Omar Monge Honored on 10 Under 40 List
Railway Track & Structures (RT&S) magazine selected Monge as part of its annual 10 Under 40 list honoring young engineers who best exemplify the industry.
Safety 04012022
Union Pacific's Largest-Ever Louisiana Hazmat Class Kindles Growth in Firefighters
Thanks to extensive outreach efforts, firefighters from 22 fire districts and departments received hazardous materials (hazmat) response training in Union Pacific’s largest-ever class of its kind in central Louisiana.
Community 03312022
Union Pacific: Proud Member of Casa de Esperanza’s Village in Houston
Forty years ago in Houston, Kathleen Foster and her friend, Bill Jones, opened a home for children in crisis. Casa de Esperanza was started as a place where parents struggling with homelessness, mental health issues and other challenges could provide their children a safe place to live.
Innovation 03242022
Collaboration Keeps Houston's Englewood Yard Humming Throughout Transformation
Union Pacific’s Englewood Yard in Houston, Texas, plays a pivotal role keeping freight moving – and as the yard continues transforming into a premier rail car processing hub, this important work can’t miss a beat.
Insights 03102022
Railroads Are Entering a New Era of Customer Centricity
Our goal is to have a deep understanding of how our customers' needs are changing, the pain points in their processes, and how we can create value for their supply chain.
Community 03102022
Loup Multicultural Council Keeps Students Afloat with Hefty Water Donation
The Loup Multicultural Council is making a splash for at-risk students in the Omaha area.
Innovation 03042022
New Vegetation Management Technology Traversing Union Pacific Tracks
Weeds have met their match with a new innovation traversing Union Pacific’s tracks systemwide.
Innovation 03032022
Loup Logistics Acquires Big Footprint in Hot Arizona Market
The recent acquisition of a premier reload facility in one of the fastest growing counties in America gives Union Pacific's Loup Logistics subsidiary a big footprint in an expanding market.
Innovation 03022022
A Win-Win: Texas Siding Projects Get Boost from Diverse Suppliers
Two separate but key Union Pacific initiatives – supplier diversity and train length – are merging in Texas, leading to a win-win situation for all stakeholders.
Heritage 03012022
'Happy Birthday, Yellowstone:' Union Pacific and National Park Foundation Celebrate National Treasure
Union Pacific has the pleasure of wishing Yellowstone National Park: “Happy Birthday!” Today, the natural wonder celebrates its 150th anniversary as a national treasure. Widely recognized as the world’s first national park, this anniversary is one of many that Union Pacific has celebrated with Yellowstone.
Safety 02282022
Kenefick Winner Vanzant Looks to Bridge Gap, Raise Safety Standard
Chicago track supervisor Lakish Vanzant works hard to make every encounter at Union Pacific a positive one.
Innovation 02252022
Serve, Grow, Win – Together: Union Pacific Leaders Celebrate Success, Look to the Future
For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, more than 700 company leaders came together Feb. 24 at the largest Leadership Conference in Union Pacific history to share success stories, talk with customers and financial investors and discuss company strategy.
Innovation 02242022
Union Pacific Lowers Fuel Consumption Third Year in a Row
Union Pacific reduced its overall fuel consumption for the third year in a row and helped its customers eliminate an estimated 22.9 million metric tons of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by choosing rail over truck.
Community 02182022
Six-Year-Old Rail Fan’s Make-A-Wish Comes True in Houston
When Charles Gustafson first heard about a little boy’s Make-A-Wish request to “drive” a locomotive, the senior manager for Union Pacific Railroad in Houston, Texas, knew it was a tough ask.
Safety 02162022
Union Pacific and Lone Star College Train Truck-Driving Students with Simulated Rail Crossings
The first time a truck-driving student at Lone Star College in Houston, Texas, encounters a railroad crossing will be on a training course and not a public highway thanks to a real-world project that received a big assist from Union Pacific Railroad.
Insights 02152022
Progress and Challenges Highlight Union Pacific's Diversity Efforts
Through this unprecedented environment, Union Pacific strives to reach its aggressive 2030 diversity goals, increasing our people of color population from 29.4% to 40% and doubling our female population to 11%. Progress toward these goals was outlined in our just-released 2021 Human Capital Report, titled “We Are One.”
Real Railroaders 02082022
Behind-the-Scenes Master Technician Keeps Safety Reporting on Target at Union Pacific
Every day, Kia Patterson races against a nonstop clock – and she wouldn’t have it any other way.
Innovation 02032022
Union Pacific's New Maintenance of Way Machine Completes Maiden Voyage
Part tie pickup, part brush cutter, part ditch cleaner, the new Maintenance of Way machine might just be the most versatile piece of equipment in Union Pacific’s arsenal. And that’s the point, according to Salt Lake City-based Kevin Packard, track supervisor, Engineering.
Insights 01282022
Lessons from Assembling the World's Largest Battery-Electric Locomotive Freight Fleet Will Benefit Entire Industry
Our announced plans to assemble the world’s largest battery electric locomotive freight fleet -- purchasing 20 battery-electric locomotives for testing in yard operations -- is a step toward our company goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2050. But it’s only one step on a journey that includes the entire transportation sector.
Real Railroaders 01262022
Union Pacific Dispatcher's Swift Actions Aid Youth in Distress
With past volunteer experience as a firefighter and medic, and 32 years of emergency services experience, Critical Call Dispatcher Don "Mac" McDonough is prepared to help callers during every type of urgent situation. On a recent shift, McDonough received a call from a distressed teen experiencing a mental health crisis.
Safety 01212022
Gov. Newsom Stands with Union Pacific and Law Enforcement; Calls for Action on LA Rail Thefts
California Gov. Gavin Newsom stood with Union Pacific representatives, law enforcement officers and UPS on Thursday, announcing a multi-agency effort to combat rail theft in Los Angeles.
Insights 01162022
UP Addresses Los Angeles Cargo Thefts; Problem Requires Collective Effort
Union Pacific mobilized an aggressive response to a spike in cargo theft , increasing the number of police assigned to protecting the targeted areas in Los Angeles County, as well as leveraging technology, such as drone surveillance, specialized fencing and trespass-detection systems.
Insights 01132022
From Online Purchases to Rail Service, Customer Experience is Key
Delivering a positive customer experience, resolving pain points, and accentuating bright spots not only is a nice-to-have, but it’s also an imperative that gives us a competitive advantage and will be even more crucial in the advanced supply chain of the future. We understand that our customers have choices, and newer decision-makers demand a seamless, simple, responsive business partner.
Innovation 01122022
A DREAM Come True: Union Pacific Employee Designs Sustainable Trailers
A Union Pacific track renewal manager may be helping the railroad expand its use of renewable energy.
Community 01072022
Union Pacific Employees Sharing the Spirit, One Community Impact at a Time
In railroading towns across Union Pacific’s 23-state network, our employees supported local families in need of cheer this holiday season.
Real Railroaders 01062022
PS Technology Employees Open Their Homes to Coworkers Impacted by Colorado Wildfires
When wildfires swept through the Boulder, Colorado, area late last week, Union Pacific subsidiary PS Technology’s office was spared by only a few hundred feet. PST employees did not escape loss, however, as some lost homes in the fire.
Real Railroaders 01052022
I AM UP: Locomotive Engineer Martin Fluitt
One railroading family, the Fluitts, planted their roots in Texas and have since flourished, blossoming successful railroading careers across both the Missouri Pacific and Union Pacific.
Insights 01042022
Self-Financed Freight Rail Will Still Enjoy Infrastructure Law Benefits
Railroads don’t rely on the government to fund the maintenance and expansion of their infrastructure, which includes all structures, buildings, land, and the equipment needed to run a railroad. But that doesn’t mean railroads won’t see benefits from the infrastructure bill.
Innovation 01032022
Union Pacific Overcame Adversity to Score Wins in 2021
From extreme weather to supply chain congestion, Union Pacific overcame its fair share of challenges.