People
October 19, 2022
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, manager-Train Operations, joined the local team operating Rochelle, Illinois’ Global 3 (G3) 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.
“My day-to-day includes supervising safe switching operations to supply Chicago’s Global 4 and Global 2 intermodal terminals, as well as Union Pacific’s intermodal and manifest interchanges,” said Stroud. “Our team’s two switch crews operate around the clock to build seven trains daily, six eastbound to Chicago and one westbound to North Platte, Nebraska.”
Developing strategic plans to handle G3’s high volumes appeal to this 17-year railroader. The Arkansan began his Union Pacific career as a North Little Rock switchperson in 2005 before becoming an instructor a decade later. Stroud’s train crew experience helped develop his passion for teaching new hires and guiding them through the certification process.
“Any time I have the opportunity to help someone develop, that’s what I want to do,” he said. “I want to ensure they’re doing everything safely.”
A diehard University of Arkansas Razorbacks fan and past collegiate athlete, sports taught Stroud several important lessons.
“Teamwork is paramount; if everyone isn’t on the same page, the results we want usually don’t happen,” he said.
The UPVETS member now teaches those values to his three sons, Cahlen, 10; Rylan, 8; and Paxton, 1. Stroud enjoys watching his two eldest play the game he loves – Cahlen’s tournament team recently won its league’s world series in Florida.
“We enjoy a lot of time on baseball fields,” he said.