Her Story
About Melodi
Melodi Tripp serves as AVP Human Resources at BNSF Railway in Ft. Worth, Texas. With over 21 years in the transportation logistics industry, she specializes in human resources, leadership, HRIS, recruiting, talent acquisition, talent development, succession planning, performance management, and employee development. Tripp earned a bachelor's degree in biology from Southern Methodist University and an MBA from Texas Christian University. She attributes her success to hard work, maintaining strong relationships, and consistently putting her best foot forward to make a positive impact. Tripp advises focusing on long-term opportunities rather than day-to-day distractions and emphasizes selecting a supportive partner whose career goals align with one's own. She values quality time with her family and strives to be a reachable, reliable, and trusted business partner in her professional role. Outside of work, Tripp serves on the leadership board of the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation, supports the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas, and participates in various women's organizations.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Melodi
01What do you attribute your success to?
I would just say hard work, no nonsense. Relationships matter. People matter. Always trying to put my best foot forward in whatever role that I am in to make a difference and make an impact.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My first boss when I came to BNSF said, look out at the horizon, don't look out at your feet. Don't get hung up on the here and now, who's getting promoted. Look out and see what the opportunities are, figure out how you're going to reach your goals, and keep focused on that. If you get pulled into the day-to-day and feel sorry for yourself, you're gonna get pulled down.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Pick your partner thoughtfully and intentionally, and make sure that your career goals align with their goals. Make sure that they're going to be supportive of you in whatever that may be, and vice versa. You kind of have to take turns sometimes. My husband was very supportive when I was getting my MBA and working and traveling, and then he got his MBA and I was on the flip side of that.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Challenges include AI coming into play in HR areas, figuring out how best to leverage that to make jobs most efficient. The industry is ever-changing and evolving, and we have to constantly change with it to stay relevant. Opportunities include demonstrating consistent and efficient service to customers to grow the business, always looking out for new business opportunities, and staying on top of the game.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
For personal life, quality time with my kids versus quantity, making sure they have the skills and life skills they need to be successful. Carve out time for my husband and family. Professionally, be reachable by every communication venue, reliable and a trusted business partner. People know they can come to me as a resource, trust me, and I can help work through problems.
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