Union Pacific Partners with California Highway Patrol for Statewide Rail Safety Training

Union Pacific’s Buck Russel, senior supervisor-Public Safety, co-led the course with California Operation Lifesaver and another Class I railroad special agent. The program trained officers from across the state to become subject matter experts in rail safety and enforcement.

Newly trained instructors will now educate fellow officers on key aspects of railroad operations, including motorist behavior near tracks, officer safety, investigations and enforcement strategies to reduce rail-related incidents.

Union Pacific’s goal: build a network of informed first responders who can effectively share rail safety information.

"First responders are essential to safety in the communities where Union Pacific operates," Russel said.

A former locomotive engineer for more than a decade, Russel offers a unique perspective from his 13 years as a Texas peace officer and five years as a law enforcement specialist in the Air Force.

"Having worked in law enforcement, I understand the potential risks officers can encounter in the railroad environment,” said Russel. “We want them to be informed so they can stay safe and help their communities stay safe." 

This collaborative effort highlights Union Pacific's commitment to community safety and proactive efforts to eliminate incidents through education and partnerships.