Union Pacific on a hiring binge
OMAHA, Nebr. - Union Pacific is hiring train crews to compensate for retirees as well as an improving economy. According to spokesperson Mark Davis, the company plans to add about 1,000 conductors and engineers through August with plans to hire 1,000 more by the end of this year. In 2004, the railroad predicts it could hire as many as 3,000 additional workers.
From Newswire
Did you know that in the next ten years, the railway industry in North America will have to replace an estimated 70% of their running trades employees due to retirement? The average age of conductors, engineers, etc…is 50+. UP recognizes this, CP does too. CN hasn’t started hiring yet, but I think they’re starting to clue in. I don’t know about the other class 1’s.
The effects of the 60 and 30 for retirement has not yet impacted the industry. When I was Road Foreman of Engines on CN’s ex GTW, I recommended that we train 10 engineeers a year to meet the then current attrition level through retirement, death, etc. I was told by the IC managers that took over the ex GTW that: “We do not train engineers until we need them.” My response was: “By the time you realize you need engineers, its too late.” The year 2007 has the potential of creating a real shortage in engineers on CN in Michigan. Between 40 and 50 engineers are able to retire out of about 300 at present in 2007. And we have trouble manning trains now!
Thanks bro, I am doing well with UP…in fact there is a distinct possibility I may get an offer next week.
go for it! good luck!
stay safe
Joe