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National STEM Day was held on Nov. 8. The special day seeks to promote the four components of STEM — science, technology, engineering and math — which improve an individual's overall knowledge, enhance careers and play major roles in most aspects of the transportation industry.
In railroading, there are many complexities behind the scenes, from wheel-rail dynamics to freight shipment density. So those armed with STEM-related knowledge are vital for railroads to thrive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM-related occupations are expected to grow 8% by 2029 compared with 3.7% for all other careers.
Union Pacific Railroad — which could be characterized as a technology company disguised as a railroad — aims to ensure its recruiting and retaining enough STEM experts to support problem-solving and critical-thinking needs. That effort includes an emphasis on hiring more women.
For example, the railroad has forged partnerships with such organizations as The Manufacturing Institute, Girls Inc. and the Big Shoulders Fund to help educate and prepare young adults for high-tech jobs, including in STEM-related areas.
In this video, several UP employees share how a solid STEM education is making a difference at the Class I and in their careers.
Video courtesy of Union Pacific Railroad
