CSX’s extensive response to the hurricanes is a testament to the company’s ONE CSX philosophy — an initiative championed by CEO Joe Hinrichs that prioritizes unity, respect, and support among employees. Since taking the helm, Hinrichs has worked to foster a culture where employees feel valued, knowing that strong relationships within the company ultimately lead to better service for customers.

Historically, railroads and their employees have not always had the best relationship. But Hinrichs believes that when workers feel appreciated and supported, morale improves, leading to greater motivation and a commitment to excellence. He actively promotes the ONE CSX mindset, making unannounced visits to CSX terminals and shops and emphasizing employee engagement at meetings and conferences. His experience leading Ford Motor Company’s labor negotiations — where he successfully navigated four contracts without a strike while competitors struggled — reinforces his belief in building strong employer-employee relationships.

Under Hinrichs’ leadership, CSX has made significant strides in improving labor relations. In 2023, it became the first Class I railroad to reach sick time agreements with its unions. In 2024, CSX broke from longstanding precedent by finalizing contract agreements with most of its unions before national negotiations even began.

As a symbol of this commitment, CSX recently unveiled a new special paint scheme on SD70MAC #4720. The locomotive, which emerged from the Waycross Locomotive Paint Shop, proudly wears a ONE CSX livery. “Our ONE CSX team and culture,” Hinrichs wrote on LinkedIn, “includes the logos of 14 of our labor union partners on the sides. So proud to work with 23,000 members of our ONE CSX team every day to keep America moving.”