Since they've likely been performing exceptionally for some time. From the HR perspective, that makes them a target. Sure, they've probably had very good reviews to get increases and bonuses, but when was the last time you heard of a company taking that into account? What I see is that they are always trying to get rid of some (at least) of the highest paid people in any given classification.

As opposed to every generating station on the planet?

Well, there you go. A stock, non over clocked card in a well ventilated case should not burn out. Period. I don't (or didn't before this) know anyone whose high end card survived without being modded for better cooling. Mileage, as always, will vary.