The managers at UP, especially the first line managers, don't know any more than the workforce about who is getting laid off and where. Also, the managers compensation is actually below average for the level of responsibility and time spent on the job. It should be around $120k/year. It's not.
I was considered a "bad" manager at UP because I stood by my men and found other things to do with my time besides write them up for how they stored their shovels (ex. buying them water so they wouldn't collapse from heatstroke). Trust me, I was as subject to the harassment and lack of support that UP dolls out as any agreement employee. This is the main reason that I left.
I think most of you nailed it regarding the useless degrees that many managers have, and how unqualified most of them seem to be for the position (ex. no apparent leadership or people skills). This appears to be the kind of leader UP wants, and from what saw it goes all the way to the top. I never understood it and I never will. Glad I got out when I did.