Early CSXI 'Recruits' on Career Day
Elementary school children learn about the intermodal business and safety in Atlanta

Terminal Manager of CSX's Hulsey Yard, Stoney Storniolo, and Intermodal Service Worker, William Traylor, recently visited C.J. Hicks Elementary School in Atlanta, Georgia, to explain all about intermodal transportation to the first, second and third graders there.

William Traylor addresses children at C.J. Hicks Elementary School in Atlanta, Georgia.

The visit was held in conjunction with Career Day at the school, but Storniolo and Traylor took the opportunity to also talk about safety and service, and encouraged the children to concentrate on their schoolwork so they'll qualify for good jobs when they grow up.

"William talked about wearing his vest and how important it is to use all available safety equipment at the yard," said Storniolo. "He used that message to remind the children to stay alert and look both ways before crossing streets at home, as workers do at roadways in the terminal."

"We also told them about working safely in all kinds of weather - rainstorms, icing conditions, extreme heat and even tornados." Hulsey Yard was struck by a tornado back in March 2008, and through the employees' emergency preparedness practices they experienced no injuries.

"The teachers were very appreciative of the time we spent," said Storniolo. "We handed out pencils and locomotive puzzles, which the kids enjoyed. It was a really neat experience."

Hulsey Yard performs about 15,000 lifts a month – about 180,000 a year. Hulsey has kept up a steady volume despite the recent economic downtown. It handles primarily domestic traffic, and volume is fairly strong there, especially in the busy Atlanta-to-Florida and Atlanta-to-Chicago markets.

Employees at the yard are approaching the two-year injury-free mark, the last injury dating back to 2007. "We're having an excellent year so far in safety," said Storniolo. "Everyone's doing well, paying attention and staying focused."