EMPLOYEES CELEBRATE THREE DECADES OF SERVICE

Three current employees — Anita Horton, David Lawhon and Dawn Tieman — have been with Missouri & Northern Arkansas Railroad (MNA) for nearly its entire history since its inception in December 1992.

Horton, director of sales and marketing, says that MNA still moves freight like it always has, but the type of freight has shifted to reflect markets changing.

“I like the industry,” says Horton. “There’s always a challenge, and you’re always learning something. It’s ever-changing. I feel it’s important to understand customers’ business.”

Part of this understanding includes adapting to changes in technology and security. Horton notes that increased security means they have to schedule appointments with customers in advance. Their communication methods utilize technology, such as crews using hand-held devices in the field.

Horton, who was hired in January 1993, says that she enjoys her job and interacting with customers.

Lawhon also says that he enjoys his job as a locomotive engineer and appreciates that he can be home every night to spend time with his family. He has seen MNA grow over the past 30 years and says that G&W has done a lot to update the shop and infrastructure. Just three days after graduating high school, Lawhon began his career as a conductor before entering engine service; he also has served on safety teams.

Tieman, who previously had worked with Horton, says that they were hired within weeks of each other. Tieman says that she loves her job as office manager so much that she has no plans to retire any time soon. She appreciates G&W’s demonstrated commitment to helping ensure MNA’s continued improvement.

Throughout her life, Tieman has worked in food service, office jobs and on the extra board for the railroad. While she enjoyed those roles, she was excited for the chance to work in one office and says that she knows MNA is the right place for her.