Diversity and Inclusion

At BNSF, diversity and inclusion are foundational values, and have been core to our shared Vision and Values since our inception.

As members of the BNSF community, our employees are entitled to:

• Be treated with dignity and respect.
• Have equal access to tools, resources, training and development opportunities.
• Have equal opportunity to achieve their full potential.

BNSF actively recruits to increase our diversity. We have relationships with more than 68 schools, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities with diverse student groups where we recruit for interns and management trainees. From college campuses and military bases to vocational/technical colleges and high schools, BNSF engages to attract diverse talent for trainee and professional positions, experienced first line supervisor opportunities (Mechanical, Transportation, Engineering positions), conductors and maintenance of way positions and more.

BNSF recognizes the growing demand for STEM professionals and the projected deficit of 2 million jobs going unfilled in the U.S. by 2025. To ensure we are ready to fill our roles with diverse talent, we have increased our engagement with student groups on campus including AESES (Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers) at UT Arlington, AISES (American Indian Science and Engineering Society), SASE (Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers), SWE (Society of Women Engineers), and NSBE (National Society of Black Engineers).

The BNSF field-based diversity councils, business resource groups and Women EnRoute groups engage in recruiting efforts, support philanthropic activities in the community, and increase engagement with BNSF employees. These groups advocate for all employees, providing an inclusive, open and collaborative workplace that encourages and supports diverse perspectives. Our ten Business Resource Groups connect employees from various departments and locations and bring awareness to resources, tools and support for employees. The groups, including allies, encourage the development, engagement and retention of employees.

Our 11 field-based Diversity Councils have members across our operating divisions in the 28 states where BNSF operates. The Diversity Councils are committed to enhancing diversity and inclusion awareness and building a positive culture by reinforcing respect in the workplace and utilizing opportunities to influence workplace behavior. Each council member serves as a goodwill ambassador to promote positive workplace relations; they keep the lines of communication open with employees and leaders in the shop or work location.

BNSF participates in scholarship programs with organizations including LULAC (League of United Latin American Citizens), Girls Inc., the Hispanic Women’s Network of North Texas and the National Association of Asian Americans. The BNSF Railway Foundation also supports organizations including the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, the United Negro College Fund, the American Indian Science and Engineering Society and P-Flag (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays).

Learn more about our Women’s Network BRG

Learn more about our Pride+ BRG