Presentation #2
Title: Careers in the Railroad Industry
Presenters: Jennifer Esola, BNSF, Manager Engineering Administration and Bill Hjelholt, HDR, Inc., Freight Rail Market Sector Director
Description: Two career railroad industry professionals will provide an overview of the various opportunities for college graduates within the railroad industry. The presentation will cover descriptions of the different departments within a Class I railroad and the types of career paths available. The discussion will also include perspectives on working for a consulting firm serving railroads, public agencies, and private entities. The presentation’s goal is to cement each student’s commitment to remaining within the railroad industry! We’re Recruiting!!
Bios: Jennifer Esola attended Texas Woman's University where she received her bachelor’s degree in English and Education. Currently she is attending Texas Christian University where she is attaining her MBA. Shortly after beginning a career in teaching, Jennifer decided that she wanted to change career paths and pursued a career at BNSF Railway. Jennifer has been at BNSF for 6 years and has held various roles. She began as a union employee in a clerical position where she was responsible for updating train reporting. After a year, she moved into an exempt role where she supported construction products customers and then agricultural customers. From there, she moved to the technology training team where she was responsible for training NextGen projects to BNSF employees and contractors. In her current role, Jennifer is responsible for recruiting, hiring, and mentoring new Engineering employees in the Management Trainee and Intern programs.