BNSF News

Project Engineer Recognized for Reporting Off-Set Coal Car

2009-10-01

Project Engineer Michael Schaefer was waiting for a meeting when he saw something he knew was wrong.

Although he does not have a transportation craft background, Schaefer knew a leaning empty coal car could soon lead to bigger trouble, so he took action.

Schaefer, who handles capital expansion projects, was in Omaha, Neb., to discuss a new connecting track with Union Pacific. While waiting for his meeting, he saw an off-center car on a BNSF coal train as it came around a curve.

"It would have struck a bridge or overhead structure," said Schaefer's supervisor, Craig Rasmussen, manager, Engineering Services, in Minneapolis. "This could have caused a major derailment if it had continued down the line."

Schaefer alerted the train crew, who stopped the train and had the car set out. "Mike's personality is very even keeled," Rasmussen said. "He approaches his job very methodically and has an excellent safety record."

"I've never seen a car so off-set," Rasmussen said. "But he was alert, had his radio handy and knew who to call. It illustrates the need for situational awareness."

For his initiative and alertness, Schaefer has received a BNSF Achievement Award. Schaefer is pictured at right with Rasmussen.

Schaefer began his BNSF career in 1994 as a scheduled employee in the Structures group. He became an exempt employee in 2001, also in Structures. He has been in his current role as project engineer in Engineering Services since 2004. His next big assignment is overseeing the Burlington Bridge replacement project in Burlington, Iowa.

The BNSF Achievement Award program, started in 1999, recognizes Team BNSF members who demonstrate BNSF's Vision and Values through initiative, efficiency, timeliness, vigilance, knowledge or innovation beyond normal job requirements. Every BNSF employee is eligible to be nominated for a BNSF Achievement Award. Employees may win more than one award during their careers. For more information about nominating a team or individual for an Achievement Award, visit the Communications tab on employee.bnsf.com

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