Optimization Catalyst #007: Driving Innovation on the Rails: Product Management, AI, and Transformation at Union Pacific

How does a 160+ year-old railroad reinvent itself for the digital age?

In this episode, we explore how Union Pacific Railroad is leveraging product management, AI, and optimization to modernize operations in a highly regulated, service-driven industry.

Host David O'Keefe sits down with:

• Prasanna Rajendran, VP, PS Technology, Union Pacific Railroad
• Steve Sashihara, Founder & CEO, Princeton Consultants

From better decision-making to measurable business impact, this conversation shows what real transformation looks like at scale.

One idea that stood out: modernization only matters if it drives real-world impact—otherwise, it’s just “digital theater.”

If you’re working with AI in complex environments or leading transformation in a traditional industry, this one’s worth your time.