Union Pacific 1979: “We Are One” Locomotive
Published: March 29, 2026
By: Adam Burns
Among the most meaningful additions to Union Pacific’s modern commemorative fleet is SD70M No. 1979, widely known as the “We Are One” locomotive. Introduced in 2021, the unit represents a powerful statement about workplace equality, diversity, and inclusion—values that have become increasingly central to the railroad’s corporate identity in the 21st century.
Origins and Purpose
Union Pacific No. 1979 was unveiled in May 2021 as a tribute to the railroad’s Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)—internal organizations that support diversity, equity, and inclusion among employees.
The locomotive’s number is highly symbolic:
- 1979 marks the founding of the Black Employee Network (BEN), Union Pacific’s first ERG.
This initiative made No. 1979 the first Union Pacific commemorative locomotive dedicated specifically to employee diversity and workplace equality, distinguishing it from earlier tributes honoring presidents, the military, or historical milestones.
Design and Symbolism
The “We Are One” locomotive is among the most visually distinctive engines in Union Pacific’s fleet. Its design was developed by the company’s Corporate Communications team and brought to life at the Jenks Locomotive Shop in North Little Rock, Arkansas.
Key design elements include:
- Colorful, mosaic-style graphics symbolizing unity across cultures and backgrounds
- The names of all nine Employee Resource Groups displayed prominently along the long hood
- Messaging centered on inclusion, equality, and shared purpose
The ERGs represented on the locomotive include groups supporting:
- AERO - Asian Employee Resource Org.
- BEN - Black Employee Network
- Bridges (LGBTQ+)
- CONAH - Council on Native American Heritage
- EASE - Employees with Disabilities)
- LEN - Latino Employee Network (LEN)
- LEAD - A Women's Initiative
- UP Ties
- UPVETS
Together, these elements transform the locomotive into a rolling ambassador for inclusion, traveling across the Union Pacific system.
Construction and Debut
Rather than being built new, No. 1979 is a repainted EMD SD70M—a proven six-axle freight locomotive widely used across North America. The unit was selected from Union Pacific’s active fleet and modified internally at Jenks before receiving its commemorative paint scheme. Following its unveiling in 2021, the locomotive entered regular freight service, where it continues to operate today while promoting its message systemwide.
Role in Service
Unlike some commemorative locomotives that are semi-retired or used primarily for special events, No. 1979 remains a fully active road locomotive. It can be found leading or trailing freight trains across Union Pacific’s vast network, which spans the western two-thirds of the United States.
Its dual role includes:
- Revenue freight service: hauling intermodal, manifest, and bulk trains
- Corporate ambassador: highlighting Union Pacific’s diversity initiatives wherever it travels
Railfans and employees alike have embraced the locomotive, often photographing it in locations where its message resonates with local communities.
Place Within the Heritage Fleet
Union Pacific’s commemorative and heritage locomotives form a unique subset of its fleet, each telling a story. No. 1979 stands out as:
- One of the newest commemorative units
- One of the few focused on internal culture rather than external events or historical figures
- A reflection of evolving priorities within modern railroading
It joins locomotives such as:
- No. 1111 (“Employee Pride”)
- No. 1943 (Armed Forces tribute)
- No. 4141 (George H.W. Bush)
—but differs in its emphasis on collective identity rather than individual recognition.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Builder | Electro-Motive Diesel (EMD) |
| Model | SD70M |
| Build Date | 2/2001 |
| Original Number | 4332 |
| Serial Number | 996188-48 |
| Wheel Arrangement | C-C (six axles) |
| Prime Mover | EMD 16-710G3C-T2 diesel engine |
| Horsepower | 4,000 hp |
| Length | ~72 ft |
| Fuel Capacity | ~4,300–5,000 gallons |
| Top Speed | 70+ mph (geared for freight service) |
| Tractive Effort (Starting) | ~140,000 lbs |
| Current Status | Active in freight service |
Legacy
Union Pacific No. 1979 represents more than a locomotive—it is a symbol of cultural progress within a historic industry. Railroads have long been central to American economic development, and this unit reflects how those institutions are evolving to better represent and support their workforce.
By placing this message on a working locomotive, Union Pacific ensured that the ideals of unity and inclusion are not confined to corporate statements but are instead carried across thousands of miles of track every day.
In that sense, the “We Are One” locomotive is both a tribute and a mission—reminding employees, communities, and observers that modern railroading is as much about people as it is about steel and horsepower.
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