Vladimir Jauregui
Growing up with three older brothers who were diesel mechanics, along with a personal interest in the pastime, Vladimir Jauregui says he finds his job as a BRC carman to be a better fit. He previously worked in sales for an industrial supply company.
“I didn’t really see myself long-term working in sales,” he said. “I’m more of a hands-on person.”
While he considers himself to be mechanically inclined, Jauregui notes that work with large rail car components requires a different approach, including the safe use of tools, such as a forklift.
Jauregui said training at the Belt’s repair shop has been largely hands-on and peer-driven. He notes he’s gained knowledge about safe work practices by observing and heeding advice from various seasoned employees. This includes taking time to ensure switches are properly aligned and locked when performing rail car inspections or repairs.
Prior to railroading, Jauregui earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology with a minor in accounting from DePaul University. He said the school’s diverse student body allowed him to meet people from different backgrounds and broadened his perspective. He sees a similar diversity reflected in the Belt’s workforce and appreciates its family-like environment.
“We’re always looking out for each other,” Jauregui said.
Outside of work, the Chicago native spends time at home with family, catches football games, especially the Bears, and details and wrenches on cars.
Mike Holic
Locomotive Engineer Mike Holic’s 30-plus-year career at the Belt has been defined by focus, adaptability and a deep appreciation for the railroad’s technical and human sides.
Holic joined the Belt on March 11, 1994, as a conductor and became a locomotive engineer two years later.
“I knew that’s the job I wanted to do,” Holic said, recalling his early interest in train handling.
Holic says his approach to the job has evolved over time and notes the importance of situational awareness as it enables him to see and address a potential issue before it becomes a problem. Holic relies on a mental checklist for troubleshooting when something isn’t working properly and knowing when intervention is necessary.
Holic is from Chicago’s West Side, and his family moved to Romeoville in 1978. He later played baseball, basketball and football in high school, which taught him the value of teamwork while showing how an individual’s effort can make a difference.
Away from athletics, he gravitated toward creative writing and journalism as he enjoyed witnessing and documenting events. He noted, “My love of reading and writing never left.”
Holic says he met his future wife, Lisa, at a dance club and learned more about her by striking up a conversation about her jewelry. The couple got married in 1992.
As his career involved working off of the extra board for several years, Holic said having the right partner mattered and notes he’s always admired his wife’s courage.
The couple has two adult children, Danielle and Marcus. The family also has a cat, a cairn terrier named Nala and a Chihuahua named Peaches.
Holic says his father taught him courage and notes his mother encouraged him to be himself. Those lessons, combined with decades of experience at the Belt, continue to guide him.
Julio Villarreal
Fixed Assets Accountant Julio Villarreal finds a sense of structure, variety and engagement while tracking progress and billable work related to the Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) Program and other capital projects.
Villarreal’s work involves piecing together information about labor, vendors, contractors and material into a complete financial picture.
Born and raised in Chicago, Villarreal said he enjoys the Belt’s tight-knit atmosphere, noting, “As it’s a smaller company, we get to know each other a little better. I feel comfortable and can communicate with anyone. I don’t feel like I’m just a number.”
Outside of work, Villarreal enjoys hiking, biking, attending summer festivals and spending time at Millennium Park and other outdoor attractions when the weather allows.
He recalls early memories of Chicago’s waterfront and the effect it had on him.
“I was fascinated with the lake and anything to do with nature,” said Villarreal, whose bucket list includes traveling to Alaska and various countries in South America.
Director of Revenue Pete Sturgeon on Julio Villarreal:
“Julio brings clarity, diligence and dependable follow‑through to every task — exactly the steady hand you want when accuracy and accountability matter most. He listens attentively, translates complex details into plain language and maintains momentum with timely, thoughtful updates. Across teams and timelines, Julio anticipates what’s needed, closes loops that others might miss and sets the tone with calm professionalism and respect. What truly sets Julio apart is the consistency of his character. He approaches every challenge with patience and thoughtful judgment. Whether he’s navigating intricate accounting details or ensuring work reaches the finish line with precision, Julio brings a level of reliability that elevates everyone around him. He demonstrates that reliability is a craft — and he practices it with excellence, integrity and unwavering dedication.”