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July 2021
Nominator's quote: "Antonio has made a significant impact to the railroad industry and Union Pacific by playing a pivotal role in Union Pacific’s transition to precision scheduled railroading by leading his team through significant operating changes in 2019 and 2020. Under Antonio’s leadership, customers are given a more reliable service while Union Pacific increases efficiencies across the operating network." — Beth Whited, UP
Education: University of Central Arkansas, B.S. in biology, minor in chemistry. University of Nebraska, Omaha College of Business, executive management training.
Job responsibilities: Executive for UP’s operating department [in Colorado, Idaho, Utah and Nevada] in charge of the safe transportation of goods/commodities.
Career path: Conductor, 2007-2012; manager of yard operations (entry level) 2012-2014; manager of terminal operations, Pine Bluff, 2014-2015; senior manager of terminal operations, North Little Rock, 2015-2016; director of terminal operations, Houston, 2016-2018; director of transportation services, Salt Lake City, 2018-2019; superintendent of operations, 2019-2021; 2021-present, general manager of transportation services, Rocky Mountain, Salt Lake City.
How did you get into the railroad industry? My best friends’ friend talked about his success as a conductor with the benefits and helping his family. Also, the responsibility to keep America running intrigued me.
What is the best career advice you've received? A co-conductor was upset over the decisions that were made above us; I decided to change it. A member of upper-level management told me, "You need to make the decisions." From there, I decided I would work toward that role to make the decisions.
What advice would you give to a new railroader? Strive to be the best. Never settle. Challenge the norm.
What was your very first job? My first job was in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, where I delivered medication in high school to the elderly and disabled. My favorite patient to deliver to was Ms. Babock, the meanest lady in assisted living, but she always had cookies for me. We created a relationship because she just needed a friend: I was her friend.
Describe a fun fact about yourself: I have a pet named Tootsie. She’s a tortoise and her favorite food is lettuce.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? I enjoy traveling to exotic places.
What is the rail industry's biggest challenge? The biggest challenge is providing excellent customer service with the increased transpacific demand of goods between Asia and the United States. Additionally, government grants to explore autonomous trucking as an alternative to transportation with railroads.
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