Relationship-Building at All Levels Drives Lujan

Wes Lujan Award | M

From board rooms to town halls, state capitols to the halls of Congress, Wes Lujan has spent his 24-year career building strong relationships in both the public and private sectors.

Lujan, Union Pacific’s assistant vice president, External Relations, operates out of the railroad’s Washington, D.C., office, advocating on behalf of the company before federal lawmakers and regulators. His experience includes lobbying, coalition-building and association leadership, managing complex public and government affairs, legislative advocacy and policy development programs in 11 states and D.C. An expert in transportation, supply chain, port, freight and passenger rail, and trucking issues, Lujan is a tested decision-maker, well-versed in managing multiple issues during rapidly shifting legislative, regulatory and election cycles.

Recognizing his leadership and achievements, Profiles in Diversity Journal named Lujan one of its 2023 Latino Leadership Award winners.

Among wearing many hats with policymakers, Lujan serves on Union Pacific’s Diversity and Inclusion Council. He’s a member of several employee resource groups and focuses on making the transition to Union Pacific smooth for families across the 23-state network. Additionally, Lujan is a mentor through the railroad’s UPLift program, which pairs employees with executives across the organization for guidance and career development. He strives to help his mentee think about the “long game” and provide new perspective to challenges.

“I was raised in a bicultural family with diverse perspectives, and my success leverages that perspective and teaches me to be open to all types of viewpoints and ideas across relationships,” Lujan said. “When I reflect on my career, I cannot overstate the value of being willing to be in every room and exhibiting a willingness to work with all types of people. The most effective way to achieve this is by learning how to be an active listener.”

Congratulations, Wes!

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