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Wanted: 80,000 tech-savvy graduates skilled in accounting, computer science, management and other fields. By AP

Press file photo - ON TRACK:The railroad industry is calling for tech-savvy graduates to take over a business that is becoming increasingly high-tech.

SACRAMENTO — Wanted: 80,000 tech-savvy graduates skilled in accounting, computer science, management and other fields.

Few people may think of freight cars when they see that job posting, but that’s what the railroad industry says it needs. It faces a generation of aging workers preparing for retirement and a business that increasingly is being transformed into a high-tech affair.

“The railroad career is not for everyone. There’s traveling. You’re away from home,” said Kelly Donley, spokeswoman for the Association of American Railroads. “But there’s no better-paying, secure industry, and it’s not a job that’s going to be outsourced. The jobs are here in America.”

In Arkansas, California, Iowa, Oregon and Wyoming, the railroad industry says it will need everything from diesel mechanics to college graduates with majors in accounting, computer science, marketing, production management and other fields over the next five years.

The industry also offers descent salaries. Wages currently average slightly more than $67,000 a year, according to the railroad association.

“The challenge has been getting young people to think about railroads as a career opportunity,” Donley said. “When they think about railroads, they think about shoveling coal and steam engines.”

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written by Richard Stanldberg , May 30, 2007

Too bad the article didn't provide any contact info for more information or a link to a website.

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written by Kathy , May 31, 2007

Go to http://www.up.com/ click on Jobs at UP. Then be prepared to work hard. If you don't have a strong work ethic don't bother. These folks working for the railroad work hard day and night. I know because I drive rhem.