Inequality on the Rails: A Qualitative Study of Women's Experiences in the Railroad Industry
Date
2013-11
Authors
Starustka, Kathleen Lowry
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Abstract
This study focuses on women who work in the railroad industry as a case study of male-dominated occupations. My theoretical approach utilizes Acker’s theory of gendered organizations to explore how the railroad industry continues to marginalize women by incorporating structures that are modeled by male ideology. I use qualitative methods that include face-to-face interviews and email correspondence with 18 women who are either currently employed or have previously worked for a railroad. My findings reveal several gendered practices in railroad work. Harassment towards the women I interviewed from male coworkers is common, particularly by their immediate supervisors. Inadequate layoff policies adversely affect women with children forcing some to choose between their jobs or having a family. Unions do very little to protect women railroad workers, leaving them vulnerable to unfair treatment by their employers. I conclude with the shortcomings of my study and suggestions for future research to examine why women do not seek out the high paying jobs railroads offer
Description
Keywords
Railroads, Women, Female, Male-dominated occupations
Citation
Starustka, K. L. (2013). <i>Inequality on the Rails: A Qualitative Study of Women's Experiences in the Railroad Industry</i> (Unpublished thesis). Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas.