Alyxandria Stephens

Why did you decide to enter a technical career field?
I chose to enter a technical career field because I have always had an interest in figuring out how and why things work since I was very young.  My dad is also an engineer so throughout my life, I have always been exposed to various technical concepts.

What has been your career journey so far?
I started with NS in 2015 after graduating from Penn State Altoona with my BS in EMET.  I started the MT program in Altoona and have since been promoted through three varying levels of supervision in the Signal Department.

Please describe your current role.
I am currently a Signal Supervisor.  I have eleven direct reports and I am responsible for ensuring that they manage their time properly to get all of their tests done and also respond to trouble as it arises.  I am also responsible for some management tasks such as payroll, material ordering, and project planning.  There are also many times where I am involved with troubleshooting our equipment and setting up new equipment as well.

What does a typical day involve for you?
I don’t think there is such a thing as a typical day on the railroad.  Each day is different and I get to set my own schedule for what I would like to get accomplished.  Generally speaking, I get some office work done and then try to spend the rest of my day out in the field.  Field work can include doing inspections on my employee’s territories, troubleshooting a problem, or joining the maintainer’s while they conduct their various tests.

What aspects of that are the most challenging?
The most challenging aspects are time management and troubleshooting problems.  Some days it can get quite busy and prioritizing different tasks can be difficult at times.  In regards to troubleshooting, the difficulty of resolving the problem depends on what has happened.  Sometimes we can have it fixed in 30 minutes, and sometimes it can take numerous hours.

What do you like most about your job?
I really enjoy the diversity of the work from day to day.  No two days are ever the same and I always learn something new every day.  It definitely keeps me on my toes and offers a great deal of opportunity to grow.

What motivates you to put forward your greatest effort?
One of the biggest things that motivates me is the satisfaction I get from completing a task, no matter how big or small, successfully and in a timely fashion.  I am definitely my own worst critic and I strive to do the best job that I can in any situation.

What are you most proud of in your career so far?
I am proud of the fact that I have gotten to the point where I am in my career in a little over three years.  It has taken a lot of time and work but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.  It feels great to know that I have put in as much effort as I can to be in the position I am currently.

Who inspired you during your career and why?
My dad has inspired me the most, not just in my career but in life in general.  He has shown me what hard work and dedication can provide and has always motivated me to be my best self.  Both of my parents have actually been my biggest support system and they have helped to inspire me to follow my career dreams and goals, no matter what.

What would be your advice to young women entering the industry?
My best advice is to never give up.  Even if you struggle at first, just keep on pushing through.  Everything will always work out the way it needs to, just keep your head held high and always have confidence in yourself and your abilities.

What are your interests/hobbies outside of work?
I enjoy pretty much anything outdoors.  Hiking, taking my dogs for walks, riding ATVs and kayaking are some of my favorites.  I also love to read and try to make some time for painting here and there.

In your opinion, what is the recipe for success – for a team, career, or otherwise?
The recipe for success is to have confidence in yourself, work hard, communicate well, always make it known where you want to go in your career and be honest.  Don’t ever be anything but yourself.