Growth of team "on full display" during third Safety Walkabout

During the recent Safety Walkabout, teams systemwide assessed the strength of our safety culture and identified next steps for continued improvement. The event was the latest in a series of efforts bringing together railroaders from different crafts, roles, and responsibilities to accelerate our safety culture transformation from compliance to commitment.

Next-level engagement. Next-level commitment

“The growth of our team was on full display during our third Safety Walkabout,” said Chief Safety Officer John Fleps. “Our railroaders are putting the principles of Speak Up culture into action across the network. With every event, our sights are set higher — because a committed safety culture is the foundation for operational excellence. We’ve built tangible momentum, and we’re just getting started.”

Walkabout teams at locations across our network, including those from Pittsburgh East and Detroit pictured below, spent the day on May 19 focused on three core objectives that reflect our commitment to continuous improvement.

1. Speak Up culture: Building trust, improving performance, and taking action

We’re not just listening — we’re acting. A strong Speak Up culture isn’t just about voicing concerns; it’s about seeing results. Teams focused on identifying barriers to open communication, building stronger relationships, and following through with action. Deeds matter.

2. Committed to rules compliance: Measuring where we stand

Walkabout teams assessed how closely behaviors align with compliance expectations. Using the Bradley Curve as a reference, they evaluated where teams were on the cultural maturity spectrum. This helps us pinpoint the next step forward.

3. Leadership development: Intentional practice in action

Leadership isn’t just taught — it’s lived. This Safety Walkabout was a leadership lab, offering real-world, real-time opportunities to give and receive feedback across functions. Through this intentional practice, we’re cultivating a stronger generation of safety leaders equipped to influence behavior and performance.