Empowering Women Redefine the Railroad Industry Landscape
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Chapter 1: Breaking Barriers
The railroad industry has long been recognized as a male-dominated field. Men have traditionally held the spotlight in this sector for centuries. For example, consider the well-known ballad of Casey Jones—if you're unfamiliar, check out the rendition of The Ballad of Casey Jones on Bing.
However, where are the ballads celebrating women as skilled locomotive engineers? It's crucial to acknowledge that women have significantly influenced railroad history, often in roles that were less desirable to their male counterparts. Unfortunately, even when women succeeded in these positions, their contributions often went unrecognized.
This article highlights the extraordinary achievements of women who have shattered the barriers of a male-centric railroad world, compelling men to acknowledge their remarkable courage and the significant advancements they brought to their respective companies.
Christine Gonzalez Aldeis
At just 21 years old, Christine made history as the first American woman railroad engineer for the Santa Fe Railway. Her journey began with a year of training, starting with pushing ore cars in a smelter yard located in Hurley, New Mexico.
Christine hailed from a family with deep railroad roots; her father was a conductor for Southern Pacific, while her mother served as a secretary for the Santa Fe trainmaster. Even her grandparents were involved in the industry, with her grandmother being a Harvey girl and her grandfather a Pullman conductor.
Initially unsure of her career path after high school, Christine's future took a turn during a lunch with her mother at a local restaurant frequented by railroad employees. Her mother suggested Christine consider a job in the railroad, possibly as a locomotive fireman.
Despite her lack of knowledge about train operations, Christine decided to apply for a position as a locomotive engineer, thinking, "Why not?" After successfully completing her training in early 1974, she began her historic role on the job.
On her first day, the media arrived to cover the event, and her grandparents were present to witness her operate the locomotive. Although she didn't initially grasp the significance of the moment, her passion for the railroad was undeniable.
While working at Santa Fe Railway, Christine met her future husband, Robert Aldeis, a conductor and brakeman. Shortly after their marriage, she became pregnant with their first daughter, Desiree, which prompted her to reassess her career.
Christine faced challenges, including inadequate restroom facilities for women on the job, which led her to take a leave of absence. Following the birth of her second daughter, Ashley, in 1985, she aimed to balance motherhood with her career.
Christine transitioned to a reservist position, allowing her to balance her responsibilities at home while maintaining ties to the railroad. Her passion for railroad safety grew as she observed unsafe behaviors among pedestrians near the tracks, leading her to volunteer for Operation Lifesaver Inc. in 1989.
In 1995, she applied for a role as a field safety support manager, eventually advancing to regional manager. Christine dedicated over 35 years to the railroad industry, retiring from BNSF in 2012.
This video, "How Women Can Break Boundaries in Male-Dominated Industries," features Thato Mokhothu discussing the challenges women face and how they can overcome them, paralleling Christine's journey.
Sarah Clark Kidder
At the remarkable age of 62, Sarah became the first woman to operate a railroad. Following the passing of her husband John, who was the president of the California-based Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad, Sarah inherited a significant portion of the railroad’s capital stock.
Elected by a majority of the workforce, Sarah took on the presidency of the railroad, despite her limited business experience. However, her leadership proved effective as she navigated the railroad through financial difficulties, increasing both freight and passenger traffic, leading to record profits.
By the end of her second year, the railroad had eliminated a $79,000 debt, along with $184,122 in interest, and declared $117,000 in dividends. When Sarah departed, the railroad was in its strongest financial position ever.
Avis Lobdell
In 1935, Avis Lobdell played a crucial role in transforming the passenger experience on the Union Pacific Railroad. Tasked with enhancing comfort for female travelers, she embarked on a journey from Chicago to Los Angeles on the Union Pacific Challenger train to gather firsthand insights from passengers.
Her findings revealed that female passengers often faced unique challenges while traveling alone or with children. In response, Union Pacific President William Jeffers established a Women's Travel Department, appointing Avis as its leader.
Under her guidance, the railroad implemented women-only train cars overseen by nurses and stewardesses, significantly improving the travel experience for women. The Challenger train subsequently became one of Union Pacific's most successful routes.
Bonnie Leake
Bonnie made history in 1966 as the first woman to be accepted for locomotive engineer training at Union Pacific. Starting her career as an office clerk, she later became a crew dispatcher before fulfilling her dream of becoming an engineer in 1974.
Bonnie operated trains across various routes until her retirement in 2007, concluding a remarkable 40-year career.
Edwina “Curly” Justus
As the first Black woman locomotive engineer for Union Pacific Railroad, Edwina broke racial and gender barriers in 1976 at the age of 34. Initially employed as a Traction Motor Clerk, she spent 22 years hauling freight across multiple states.
After her retirement in 1998, Edwina authored an autobiography titled UP’s First Black Woman Locomotive Engineer, published in December 2021.
The Legacy of Women in Railroads
The contributions of these pioneering women remind us of the importance of recognizing and celebrating their achievements. Their hard work and dedication paved the way for a more inclusive future in the railroad industry.
Union Pacific has set an ambitious goal of doubling the number of women in its workforce by 2030, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing diversity and representation within the industry.
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