NEWSLETTER MONTHLY
Senator Roger Marshall visits CDL (p.14)
Table of Contents
HAPPY WORK ANNIVERSARY!
Bob Hawkins
Steve Smith
Darcy Reasoner
Adam Redd
Matt Overstake
Ralph Souders
Richard Spivey
Justin McManis
Linda Sigler
Kevin Waite
Jake Neisler
Lee Schneider
Joseph Slatter
JULY CORE VALUE COIN RECIPIENTS
NAME
Anthony Merando
Jeff Dudley Justin Coody
COIN TYPE
Excellence
Excellence Excellence
Supervisors: To nominate an employee for a Core Value Coin, contact Human Resources for a nomination form.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
EVAN BOWLBY
RRSM Supervisor - West
Evan Bowlby spent 6 years in the Navy as a Sonar Technician on submarines, worked in the Texas oil fields for Schlumberger as Seismic Field Specialist, then a government contractor climbing radio towers and building police cars for the Navy.
“I started with the railroad in 2011 as locomotive mechanic/electrician.” said Evan. “After a year, I moved into the signal maintainer position with OmniTrax, and Progressive Rail won the contract for our railroad in 2017. I came onboard CDL in 2023 with the Progressive Rail contract. I stepped up to the supervisor role in 2024.”
On his personal life, Evan stated: “I enjoy working with all of my maintainers- from the senior most guy, to the brand-new maintainer. I try to mentor and pass on my experiences and enjoy learning from each of them as well. We all bring something to the table and work together to build the best team we can. My hobbies and interests have always been hunting, fly fishing, motorcycles, 4x4’s and hot rods.
CURRENT JOB OPENINGS
Railroad Signal
Railroad Signal Maintainer- South Bend, IN area
Railroad Signal Maintainer-St Louis, MO area
Railroad Signal Maintainer- Tuscaloosa, AL area
Railroad Signal Maintainer- Madison, WI area
Railroad Signal Maintainer- Boise, Idaho area
Railroad Signal Maintainer- Hays, Kansas area
Boring
Drill Operator- Pittsburg, KS
Tracker/Laborer- Pittsburg, KS
On-Track Safety
Roadway Worker In Charge (RWIC) Traveling
Trackside Utility Manager Coordinator (TUMC) Traveling
Electrical
Journeyman Electrician - Pittsburg, KS
Journeyman Lineman- Pittsburg, KS
Journeyman Electrician - Humboldt, KS
Master Electrician - Humboldt, KS
Journeyman Electrician - Joplin, MO
Alternative Energy
Generator Technician- Pittsburg, KS
Solar Electrician - Joplin, MO
Solar Installer Technician- Joplin, MO
Plumbing
Plumber Assistant - Pittsburg, KS
Journeyman Plumber- Pittsburg, KS
Journeyman Plumber - Humboldt, KS
Master Plumber - Humboldt, KS
HVAC
HVAC Lead Installer - Humboldt, KS
Technical Services
Traffic Signals Technician- Pittsburg, KS
Signs
Vinyl Technician- Pittsburg, KS
Above are the current open positions. If you or someone you know is interested, please send Human Resources an email and submit resumes via https://cdlelectric.com/careers/
HR REMINDERS
UKG READY
Please keep your personal information up to date at all times in UKG Ready. To change or update your personal information- you will access UKG.
Select my info (tab)>my hr > hr actions> update personal information>update and submit.
Please ensure that HR has a current and valid copy of your driver’s license on file. If you haven’t submitted an updated copy recently or if your license has been renewed, kindly provide the most recent version at your earliest convenience.
Your cooperation is greatly appreciated!
HEAT-RELATED ILLNESSES
A guide to types, symptoms, and prevention.
Heat-related illnesses are a range of conditions caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures, especially when accompanied by humidity and insufficient fluid intake. These illnesses can affect anyone but are particularly dangerous for children, older adults, and individuals with certain health conditions or those taking specific medications.
TYPES OF HEAT-RELATED ILLNESSES & SYMPTOMS
Heat-related illnesses exist on a spectrum of severity, from mild discomfort to life-threatening emergencies. The main types include:
Heat Rash: Also known as prickly heat, this is a skin irritation caused by sweat getting trapped in clogged pores. It appears as red bumps or small blisters, often in skin folds or areas covered by clothing.
Heat Cramps: These are painful muscle spasms, commonly affecting the abdomen, arms, or legs. They are caused by the loss of salts and fluids through sweating.
Heat Syncope (Fainting): Sudden dizziness or fainting can occur when standing for long periods or rising quickly in the heat. This is due to dehydration and reduced blood flow to the brain.
Heat Exhaustion: More severe than heat cramps, heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses excessive water and salts. Symptoms include heavy sweating, headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, irritability, thirst, elevated body temperature, and decreased urine output.
Heat Stroke: The most serious and life-threatening heat-related illness, heat stroke occurs when the body’s cooling system fails and body temperature rises rapidly (often above 104°F). Symptoms include confusion, altered mental status, slurred speech, seizures, loss of consciousness, hot and dry skin (though sweating may still be present), and a very high body temperature.
RISK FACTORS
Several factors can increase a person’s susceptibility to heat illness, including:
• High Temperature and Humidity: Hot, humid environments hinder the body’s natural cooling mechanisms like sweating.
• Direct Sun Exposure: Direct sunlight increases the body’s heat load.
• Lack of Acclimatization: Not being accustomed to working or exercising in hot conditions increases risk.
• Dehydration: Not drinking enough fluids.
• Physical Exertion: Strenuous activity in the heat generates significant body heat.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Clothing: Non-breathable or excessive clothing can hinder heat dissipation.
• Age Extremes: Infants and children under four, and older adults (65 years and older) are at higher risk.
• Chronic Health Conditions: Individuals with obesity, heart disease, diabetes, poor circulation, or mental health conditions may be more susceptible.
• Certain Medications: Some medications can interfere with the body’s ability to regulate temperature or sweat.
• Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol increases dehydration.
• Previous Heat-related Illness: A history of heat illness increases the risk of future episodes.
FIRST AID AND TREATMENT
Immediate action is crucial when someone exhibits signs of heat illness.
• Move to a cooler area: Get the person into the shade or an air-conditioned space immediately.
• Loosen clothing: Remove unnecessary layers of clothing.
• Cool the person: Use cool, wet cloths, apply ice packs to the neck, armpits, and groin, or use fans to circulate air. In severe cases of heat stroke, immerse the person in cold water if possible.
• Give fluids (if conscious and able to swallow): Offer cool water or sports drinks for heat exhaustion or cramps.
• Seek immediate medical attention: Call 911 immediately if you suspect heat stroke, or if symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment.
PREVENTION
Preventing heat-related illness is paramount. Key preventive measures include:
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and other fluids regularly, even before feeling thirsty. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary beverages, which can contribute to dehydration.
• Stay Cool: Seek out air-conditioned environments during the hottest parts of the day. If no air conditioning is available, go to public cooling centers, libraries, or malls.
• Limit Outdoor Activity: Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest times of the day (usually late afternoon).
• Wear Appropriate Clothing: Choose lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and a widebrimmed hat when outdoors.
• Pace Yourself: Start slowly when exercising or working in the heat, gradually increasing intensity and taking frequent breaks in the shade or a cool area.
• Use Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher and reapply as directed.
• Check on Others: Monitor friends, family, and neighbors, especially older adults or those with health conditions, as they may be less aware of the symptoms of heat illness.
LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF HEAT STROKE
Untreated or delayed treatment of heat stroke can lead to serious complications and long-term consequences, including:
• Increased Sensitivity to Heat: People who have had heat stroke may become more sensitive to hot weather and find it difficult to regulate their body temperature.
• Organ Damage: Heat stroke can damage vital organs such as the brain, heart, liver, and kidneys. The severity of the damage depends on how quickly treatment is administered.
• Neurological Problems: These can include confusion, disorientation, difficulty with coordination, and memory issues.
• Cardiovascular Issues: Increased risk of chronic heart disease and other heart-related problems.
• Kidney Diseases: Potential for acute kidney injury or chronic kidney disease.
By understanding the types of heat-related illnesses, their symptoms, risk factors, & effective prevention strategies, individuals can better protect themselves & others during hot weather conditions.
This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional.
PHOTO OF THE MONTH
Congratulations to This Months Winner
Ai Leonard!
Thank you to each and every employee that submitted photos to our contest! Photos submitted may be used in future marketing material. Your dedication & pride in your job is greatly appreciated.
Photo provided by Ai Leonard, A Vermeer directional drilling rig at work in a busy rail yard, installing underground utilities with the St. Louis Arch standing tall in the distance. Photo captured for UPRR in the Alton Yard.
IN THE
TO
WIN $100 VISA GIFT CARD
Enter your best photos on the job into our new Photo of the Month Contest! Decided on by the marketing team, the monthly winner will receive a $100 Visa Gift Card to use as they please!
• Photos must be work or company related. On the job, or behind the scenes.
• Photos must be supplied with a short caption.
• Winning photo will be featured in the monthly newsletter.
• The Winner will be decided on the following month. E.g. August’s winner will be decided, announced, & featured in September’s Newsletter, & so on.
• Other submissions also have a chance to be featured in the next monthly newsletter.
Photos are submittable via email to marketing@cdl-electric.com
WELCOME TO THE TEAM
BRITTIAN FRERICHS
Vice President of Railway Services
CDL Electric Company is proud to welcome Brittian (Britt) Frerichs as Vice President of Railway Services. Britt has over 25 years of experience in the railroad industry. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Project Management from Bellevue University as well as Associates of Applied Science in Electronic Technology from Salt Lake Community College. Britt also is a certified Project Management Professional from PMI.
In 2000, Britt began his professional career with Union Pacific as an assistant signalman, his career at UP included signalman and foreman signal design engineer, project manager, and program manager/director. One of Britt’s most proud accomplishments was contributing to the successful completion of the Santa Teresa Intermodal and Fueling Facility project in Santa Teresa, NM, as well as the Sunset Double Track in LOCATION.
In 2015 Britt joined Wabtec as a Systems Integration Program Manager where he was instrumental in implementing PTC for various railroads such as TRRA of St Louis and BRC of Chicago. In 2020, he was promoted to the Director of Program Management for the western region, leading a large team that supported several system and signal projects along with international projects in Canada and Liberia Africa. Following his stint at Wabtec, Britt moved to Herzog in 2024, as Senior Director of Rail Systems- Business Development for Herzog Technologies Inc. Britt desired to move back into operations and in August of 2025, he accepted the role of Vice President of Railway Services at CDL Electric, where he will oversee Signal Inspections & Maintenance, Construction, Boring, On-Track-Safety, and Engineering. His experience and dedication to the industry will help CDL continue in its mission to provide its customers with the best in business in Railway Services. Britt Frerichs currently resides in Omaha, NE with his wife Breanna and 4 children, Harlynn who is 12, Ledger who is 8, and twin identical boys Hendrik and Silas who are 2. Britt’s family is very active with multiple sports, water activities, and enjoys fixing and riding motorcycles.
Let’s extend a warm CDL welcome as he steps into his new role.
SIGNAL MAINTENANCE FOR
CDL is proud to announce that we are now providing signal maintenance services for Coors, one of America’s most iconic brands. This partnership is more than just a new project - it represents recognition of CDL’s trusted expertise in keeping rail infrastructure operating safely and efficiently.
For over 150 years, Coors has been synonymous with American brewing, growing from a small Colorado operation founded in 1873 to one of the largest and most respected beer companies in the world. Rail has always played a key role in that growth, moving raw materials in and finished products out to customers across the country.
By taking on this responsibility, CDL becomes a part of that story - ensuring the rail systems that support Coors’ operations remain safe, reliable, and compliant. It’s a significant step forward for CDL’s rail services division, demonstrating that even companies with a long history and high standards trust CDL to protect their operations.
U.S SENATOR VISITS CDL
Recently, CDL had the honor of hosting U.S. Senator Roger Marshall for a grassroots tour of our headquarters- a day that put a spotlight on the people, projects, and purpose driving our work every day.
During his visit, the Senator met with leadership, toured the facility, and took time to learn how CDL supports critical rail infrastructure across the country. Conversations focused on CDL’s alignment with Buy America requirements, the impact of tariffs on the rail industry, and the essential role our U.S.-based services play in keeping rail systems safe, connected, and compliant.
For our employees, the visit was a meaningful recognition of the dedication and craftsmanship that go into every job. It was also a moment to celebrate the fact that our team’s efforts are being noticed at the highest levels of government.
Senator Marshall’s visit reminded us that the work happening here at CDL makes a lasting impact - not just for our customers, but for the long-term strength and resilience of the rail industry as a whole.
