A Diversity Interview with Brad Fitzgerald

As Director of the CYO (Central Yard Operations), Brad Fitzgerald has exercised visionary action in establishing the Leadership Council. This diverse group of individuals will help narrow the divide between labor and management in order to establish a work environment where CYO employees will enjoy coming to work and are productive. Moreover, the Wisdom of Crowds is a highly discussed book at NS and there seems to be a strong correlation between that book and Mr. Fitzgerald’s approach in reaching his crowd (CYO reps & mgrs).

Q. Where did you get your inspiration to assemble the Leadership Council?

A. There was a combination of things. We were not going in the direction I wanted and we seemed to have reached a plateau. Then at one of our Town Hall meetings I was challenged by two employees who felt disenfranchised and disillusioned with CYO. I realized they were a reflection of my department. We needed a process for a substantial change; there was a need to bridge the gap between management and labor. The Leadership Council was formed as an effort to do just that.

Q. What are some of the benefits of having the Leadership Council?

A. The morale of the department has improved. We realize having the reps involved in some of the decision-making plays a big part in changing the environment. The majority of employees are feeling good about coming to work. While part of our duties is to enforce the rules, there still has been a decline in discipline.

Q. What criticisms have you received since the Leadership Council’s inception?

A. Organized labor and management have been in existence over 100 years. As with any new concept, you have your naysayer’s who say it won’t work, and some who may not want it to work. However, I find the majority of the department has bought into the idea, and want it to succeed.

Q. Do you see a difference between the intention of the Leadership council and its impact on your department?

A. The intention is clearly defined, and the impact is still unfolding. I also realize this is just the beginning, so I ask, “Are we trying enough? Are we willing to fail?” And, “How can I keep those involved from leveling out?” We welcome the challenges.

As a member of the Diversity Council our current theme is “Diversity Lives Here” we would like to thank you for utilizing the diversity in your department.

The current members of the Leadership Council are: Altarral Hagen, Marsha Jackson & William (Bill) Driskill.