Union Pacific Railroad jumped to the No. 2 spot on Military Times' Best for Vets: Employers 2016 rankings, up from No. 11 the previous year, the railroad reported March 24, 2016. UP is among 75 companies selected, and the only business in the transportation industry ranked in the top five. Rankings are based on recruiting, mentoring, and on-the-job training and spouse employment.
"Military veterans are a great fit for Union Pacific because of their focus on safety, proven leadership skills and experience working in challenging environments," said Sherrye Hutcherson, UP’s Vice President-Human Resources. "Our blueprint for talent management is focused on recruiting, developing and engaging top talent, and veterans are a cornerstone of that strategy."
More than 20% of UP employees have military experience, and some remain active in the National Guard or Reserves. UP actively recruits veterans through various initiatives, including its membership in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Veteran Employment Advisory Council, through which the company participated in 14 Hiring our Heroes career fairs in 2015. UP recruiters also participated in 11 virtual career fairs and 135 other military fairs and events, such as those facilitated by Wounded Warrior Project.
UP offers unique employment opportunities for veterans, including train crew, diesel mechanics and electricians, assistant signal workers and track laborers. Engineers in the computer science, electrical, civil and mechanical areas will find leadership opportunities in the Information Technologies Department or through the company's Operations Management Training Program. Job opportunities are available at www.UP.jobs.
This is the seventh consecutive year UP has been named to the Military Times rankings.