HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Area quarterly earnings reports got off to a good start as Union Pacific announced a record first quarter for 2018.

The nation’s largest railroad, and fourth highest property tax payer in Reno County, saw earnings of $1.3 billion, or $1.68 per share, compared with $1.3 billion, or $1.32 per share, one year ago.

Operating revenue was $5.5 billion, up 7 percent. Lead by increases in coal shipment, U.P.’s car loadings increased by 2 percent. The railroad did see a decline in ag shipment

An improving economy is also making for some career opportunities as train crews and workers are being called back. Some of the jobs even include as much as a $25,000 signing bonus as the railroad tries to keep up with increasing demand.

The next company with ties to Reno County to announce its earnings will be Arconic on Monday, April 30.