Rising Stars 2022: Evan King

Evan King, 35
Senior business analyst
CSX

Nominator’s quote: “Evan has demonstrated a high level of performance and aptitude throughout his tenure with CSX, and is trailblazing in the technology realm of the railroad industry.” — Kia Warren, CSX

Education: B.A. in finance, Florida State University.

Job responsibilities: Provide real-time data solutions enabling business analytics and performance metrics for CSX operating teams. Also, work closely with key business stakeholders to develop applications supporting positive train control, fuel conservation and yard operations.

Career path: Joined CSX as a management trainee in 2010, then worked in transportation services specializing in railroad event reporting. Hired as a business analyst in 2016.

How did you get into the railroad industry? I joined CSX following college graduation. I was raised in a railroad family and am the third generation to work for CSX.

What is the best career advice you’ve received? No single person is as great as a whole team. Don’t be one person — be a great member of the team.

What advice would you give to a new railroader? Ask questions and understand the answer before you act. The people of this industry are exceptional to the new employee that has a keen interest and wants to learn.

What was your very first job? I was a grocery bagger at Publix when I was 15, and I spent my high school years delivering pizza and working at big-box stores.

Describe a fun fact about yourself. I relentlessly pursue the perfectly smoked brisket. I wouldn't win any competitions, but I do enjoy firing up the smoker.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? I have a wonderful wife, Lauryn, who also works at CSX, two small children, Bryson, 6, and Audyn, 4, and two English bulldogs. We enjoy traveling and seeing new places, and we spend a lot of time outdoors in local state parks, going swimming and enjoying the beach.

How has the pandemic changed your views of your career and life in general? The pandemic certainly made me appreciate simple things, like having a face-to-face conversation and team gatherings. However, it also proved how effective we are at working remotely. CSX has been very supportive of continuing flexible work arrangements.