Breaking Points with Krystal and Saagar Railway Worker Interview
Sep 14, 2022
Michael Paul Lindsey, a locomotive engineer with 17 years at Union Pacific in Idaho, shares his experiences navigating a tumultuous rail industry. He discusses the relentless demands of being on call and the struggles for fair compensation during ongoing contract negotiations. The chat dives into how corporate greed has reshaped worker rights, leading to stalled negotiations and widespread discontent among railroad employees. Michael also highlights the growing pressure from legislative efforts that threaten the rights to strike, underscoring the urgent need for advocacy.
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A Railroader's Life
- Michael Paul Lindsey, a locomotive engineer with 17 years at Union Pacific, describes his work routine.
- He explains the unpredictable schedules, long hours, and inadequate meal allowances.
Industry Consolidation
- Deregulation and consolidation have shrunk the number of Class 1 railroads and drastically reduced the workforce.
- This has created a self-inflicted labor shortage and worsened working conditions.
Precision Scheduled Railroading
- Railroads prioritize profits through 'precision scheduled railroading,' cutting crews and resources to boost stock prices.
- This has led to harsh attendance policies, unpredictable schedules, and locomotive shortages.