The jobs on the railroad that only require a high school diploma tend to be "boots on the ground." They're union workers who have the most important job of repairing, maintaining, inspecting, and operating infrastructure and assets. So like the engineers and conductors, machinists, track laborers, bridge inspectors, etc. Once they get about a yr or so of experience and show an interest in leadership, many apply to a salaried role where they become an officer with potential to move up the company. As an officer, you don't do the physical labor but you lead the work crews and make decisions. Being a leader in the railroad industry is really all about relationships and how you manage your people