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Rail News Home Union Pacific Railroad 2/10/2022 Rail News: Union Pacific Railroad
Union Pacific Railroad has released its first “We Are One” human capital report, which includes milestone achievements in the Class I's efforts to create a diverse and inclusive workforce.Under UP’s diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) initiatives, nearly half of the railroad’s new hires in 2021 were people of color, while 13% were female. Half of UP’s board was also comprised of diverse individuals. Management promotions included 30% people of color and 20% female.In addition, the railroad won multiple awards reflecting its commitment to a diverse workforce, including a spot on the Noteworthy List of the Top 50 Companies for Diversity by Diversity Inc.; being named a 2022 “Best Places to Work for LGBTQ+ Equality” winner; and recognition from Latina Style’s Top 15 Employee Resource Groups of the Year in 2021."Our goal is to help all employees grow personally and professionally, providing them fulfilling careers," said Beth Whited, UP executive vice president of sustainability and strategy.Recruiting “remained agile” at UP amid nearly 500 virtual career fairs over two years and the launch of the Second Chance hiring program that provides opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals, UP officials said in a press release. Eighty percent of eligible senior collegiate interns were also offered a full-time position.UP’s current DE&I goals include increasing its people of color employee population to 40% from the current 29.4% and doubling its female population to 11% by 2030."To achieve our goals, we've taken action — launching virtual career fairs, creating strategic recruiting partnerships and promoting internship opportunities," said Tonya Eggspuehler, UP's assistant vice president of talent management and workforce resources. "We're also focusing internally to ensure we're retaining our current talent.”