May 20, 2022
“I was told about UP’s Educational Assistance Program when I hired on,” he said. “Then I read about UP’s partnership with UNO on the employee website, paying all tuition up front and waiving all fees. I decided to take advantage and go back for my bachelor’s.”
With assistance from University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO) advisors and professors, Frey says he was set up for success from the very start.
“The process was simple, the UNO-UP concierge helped me sign up and transfer my transcript,” he said. “Being able to take classes completely online was the most beneficial aspect. My academic advisor helped me set goals and focus on what needed to be done to graduate.”
Frey’s hard work paid off. On May 13, he graduated with honors from UNO, earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in supply chain management. He also earned a spot as the 2022 Logistics and Supply Chain honoree during the UNO Student Honors Convocation ceremony.
“I put in a lot of time and effort; being recognized makes me feel good about my decision to go back to school,” Frey said. “My kids have gotten tired of hearing about my award already.”
Ultimately, Frey plans to leverage his degree for new opportunities inside the railroad.
“I really enjoy working for UP, it’s a great place to work,” Frey said. “I hope to be able use my degree and experience to work my way into the supply chain side of the business. From obtaining resources and materials to keep the trains moving on the Engineering side, to hauling freight for customers on the Transportation side – UP is all about supply chain.”
Frey recommends the program for fellow UP employees.
“It’s a great UP benefit, and a good way to give yourself more opportunities within the company,” he said. “It’s never too late to finish what you started. I started taking college classes way back in 1998. Twenty-four years later, I can now say I am a college graduate.”
Searching for a tuition-free education? Union Pacific’s Educational Assistance Program provides employees with the opportunity to further their skills and knowledge in partnership with the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) and other higher education institutions.
Full-time employees choosing to study with UNO are offered a variety of advantages, including waived registration fees and accelerated admission, as well as the choose-your-pace opportunity to take singular courses for professional development or to earn a degree.
Interested in starting a career at Union Pacific? Visit up.jobs to learn more!