Rising Stars 2024: Robert Bullock

Robert Bullock, 32
Vice president and chief people officer
Florida East Coast Railway

Nominator’s quote: “Before his distinguished career in the railroad industry, Robert served his country in the United States Marine Corps, showcasing his dedication to service and leadership from an early age.” — Luis Hernandez, Florida East Coast Railway

Education: Joined the Marine Corps after high school and received air traffic control training. After transitioning to the railroad industry, completed a bachelor's degree in business administration and an MBA. Currently pursuing a Juris Master degree in employment law and human resources.

Job responsibilities: Leads human resources, payroll, labor relations, crew management, safety, training and regulatory compliance. Works closely with the executive team to align HR strategies with business objectives, foster organizational growth and ensure a positive employee experience.

Career path: My career began with service in the Marine Corps. After leaving the military, I joined Florida East Coast Railway as a train dispatcher. I then moved into management, focusing on labor relations, and progressed through various leadership positions. This journey provided me with an understanding of operational and human resources aspects of the rail industry, leading to my current role.

Why did you decide to work for the rail industry? I was introduced to the rail industry at a military career fair where several railroads were recruiting. With a background in air traffic control, I was aware that railroads sought individuals with similar skill sets for train dispatching roles. I was attracted to the industry due to its stability and longevity, and the opportunity to apply my skills in a new context sparked my interest, ultimately leading me to pursue a career in the rail industry.

What’s the best career advice that you’ve received? Always raise your hand for an opportunity. I was initially focused on operational management roles in the railroad industry but was surprised when offered a position in labor relations. Embracing this unexpected opportunity allowed me to broaden my skills and make a meaningful impact. This taught me the importance of being open-minded and adaptable, reinforcing that seizing unconventional opportunities can lead to significant professional growth.

What advice would you give someone just starting out in railroading? I advise newcomers to be patient and persistent. It's crucial to go beyond learning your specific functional area and strive to understand the broader context of being a railroader. The Marine Corps has a saying, "Every Marine is a rifleman." I believe every railroad employee should consider themselves a railroader.

Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the railroad’s operations and impact ensures you can make informed decisions that support the business. Immerse yourself in the industry, seek learning opportunities, and approach your work with a mindset of contributing to the railroad's overall success.

What was your first job? My first job was at a golf course, where I held various customer-facing positions, including starter, ranger and cart attendant. This experience taught me the importance of customer service, effective communication and teamwork.

Share a fun fact about yourself. I’m a Florida native and a die-hard Miami Hurricanes football fan. My wife and I are University of Miami alumni, and we share a passion for supporting the Hurricanes.

If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? President George W. Bush. I have a deep admiration and respect for how he conducts himself, especially his leadership during challenging times. In 2004, I had the unforgettable experience of shaking his hand at a campaign event when I was just 12 years old. I particularly appreciate his efforts with the annual Warrior 100K bike ride, which honors and supports wounded veterans. Discussing his insights on leadership, decision-making, and life after the presidency would provide invaluable lessons and make for a truly inspiring conversation.

Who has had the most influence on your career and why? My mentor Tom Ballas. As a longtime railroad executive, his teachings and guidance were pivotal in paving the way for my executive journey. Tom’s extensive experience and insights into the railroad industry provided me with invaluable knowledge and mentorship. His leadership style, strategic thinking and dedication to excellence have profoundly shaped my approach to leadership and decision-making, laying a strong foundation for my professional growth and success.

Describe a major obstacle in your career and how you surmounted it. A significant challenge in my career was collaborating within a multinational company with diverse backgrounds. I actively engaged with colleagues abroad, fostering understanding through travel and cultural immersion. I prioritized open communication and empathy to bridge cultural gaps and build camaraderie. Upon returning, I shared insights with my U.S. team, emphasizing the value of diversity in driving innovation. This approach facilitated effective collaboration and contributed to our collective success.

What is the biggest challenge facing the rail industry today? The rail industry confronts two major challenges: First, attracting and retaining talent in a changing workforce landscape where priorities may diverge from traditional rail environments; and second, navigating political and regulatory environments that impose overly burdensome demands. It's essential to uphold the industry’s reputation as the safest, most efficient and environmentally friendly mode of transportation.