Zachary Pope: From Heavy Equipment to Union Pacific Rails

Zachary Pope began his career journey at Mingo Job Corps Center, where he completed his basic trade of Heavy Equipment Operations. But he wasn’t done learning. With his sights set on a career in transportation, Zachary took the next step and enrolled in the TCU/IAM Advanced Transportation Training Program at Excelsior Springs Job Corps Center.

Through TCU, Zachary dove into industry-focused training that prepared him for real-world work in freight rail operations. His dedication paid off: Zachary was placed as a Mechanical Service Operator (MSO) with Union Pacific in North Platte, Nebraska—a major hub of the rail industry. He’s now earning $23.96 per hour and building a career with long-term potential.

Zachary’s story is proof that with hard work, support, and the right training, success is within reach. From operating heavy machinery to keeping America’s railroads running, he’s showing what it means to stay on track and move forward.

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