In October of 2018, UP rolled-out their “modernization” program, complete with cool corporate buzzwords, slick acronyms, and, last but not least, large scale layoffs (“streamlining for operational efficiency” in corporate doublespeak).
It’s now nearing the end of 2020, and there’s no clear end in sight to the restructuring. The goalposts keep moving. The strain on the system and workforce is increasing. Is there an end-game, or is this just how the railroad is going to be run from now on?
The end game was an operating ratio of 55. That has eluded them. It may be time to rebuild now with a somewhat demoralized workforce. A workforce that doesn’t trust them or care about their slogans or phrases.
AQZ, managers don’t like PSR either. The only people that embrace this concept are the executives and board of directors. Many managers have lost their jobs in the past couple of years and the ones remaining are working more hours, so again, we don’t like this either. I am very close to retirement so I am better off than most. The younger managers will not be around to see retirement with this company. Technology will take many jobs in the near future, probably more than PSR. I have friends at other railroads and they are going through the same thing we are, some worse. NS is short lining quite a bit of their system and many have lost jobs because of this. I wish the best for all UP employees, regardless of whether you are agreement or management. We all are either suffering because if he changes or will in the future.
The worst case scenario endgame would be UP goes under, and bought out by a competitor. Some people are always coming with new ways to ask the question of when will this be over. This will never end without an intervention!!!
Legend has it, when it’s over, a fat lady will sing.
Managers the only people thinking this is the way to run a railroad wait until they get told u been furloughed no one will care
There is no endgame, those that think otherwise are delusional. When one goal is reached another is devised. When the company reaches 55 on the operating ratio, another lower goal will be set. Too much is never enough is this era of corporate greed. Layoffs and restructuring is the new norm and the only certainty is more change is to come.
The goal posts have always been the same, 55 or bust. It’s taking longer for obvious reasons. If you take a look at other railroads that are in post PSR era they really haven’t changed much since they started.