Around The Railroad

Engineering Employees Are World-Class

March 13, 2009 | 09:50 a.m. CDT

Gary Willey, Switch Gang 9078 assistant foreman, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has been recognized as an Engineering Department World-Class Employee.

Known for his "can do" attitude, Willey is described as someone who can be counted on each day to lend a helping hand and effectively step into a leadership role when needed. He takes the safest course when performing his duties and watches out for fellow employees.

"One of his most important contributions is his ability to encourage a safe and productive workplace," said Peter Arrollo, track supervisor, Ties North/West. "His work ethic is an example for both new and seasoned employees alike."

Willey has worked injury-free since he was hired in 1996 and is given credit for playing a key role in keeping the switch gang injury-free for more than 1,700 days.

Mark "Midgey" Herring, Stockton, Ill., also has received recognition as a World-Class Employee. He is a system truck driver foreman for Gang 9067.

"He has continually demonstrated a high degree of commitment and dedication to Union Pacific in performing his duties," said W. John Hofer, track supervisor, who nominated Herring for the award. "He is probably the best at getting vehicles in and out of repair shops with as little down-time as possible."

Known as the "go-to guy" for the entire group, Herring is recognized for his people skills and his unparalleled abilities in the crow's nest of a grapple truck. He does not hesitate to put his foreman title aside to get behind the wheel as a driver when the need arises. This year, he was partnered with a laptop and exemplified his ability to quickly learn something new. The gang's productivity and efficiency is attributed largely to his efforts.

"Probably the best example he sets for the group is his contagious sense of urgency without sacrificing safety," said Hofer. "He is an absolute model employee for getting things done."

World Class Employee award recipients are selected by a committee of Engineering Department program directors.