Rising Stars 2020: Lacy Kreger

Lacy Kreger, 39
Director, economic development strategic programs
BNSF Railway Co.

Nominator’s quote: “Lacy Kreger has been a key part of the BNSF Economic Development Strategic Program and was instrumental in developing our first green field logistic center, the Denver Logistic Center in Hudson, Colorado. She led internal and external stakeholders from land acquisition, design and construction to completing the first customer site.” — Cary Hutchings, BNSF Railway Co.

What is your educational background?
Master of Business Administration, University of North Texas; Bachelor of Arts, Stephen F. Austin State University. 

Describe your current job and responsibilities.
I am responsible for leading and managing multiple strategic land development projects (logistics parks and logistics centers) across the BNSF network. This includes conceptual business planning, land acquisitions, site due diligence, design, permitting and construction.

Describe your career path.
Prior to joining BNSF, I worked as director of economic development for the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce. I worked with the local and outside business community on all aspects of development for projects targeting Fort Worth, Texas. After eight years, I decided to pursue a slightly different career path, still in economic development, but working with Jones Lang LaSalle’s (JLL) rail practice group on the BNSF account. 

While at JLL, I worked on customer location and expansion projects in the Southeast including Big River Steel, one of Arkansas’ largest economic development projects. After two years at JLL, I transitioned to a career with BNSF. During these past five years, I have held various roles in economic development; from launching BNSF’s Certified Site Program in 2015, leading the permitting and construction of Logistics Center Hudson in 2018, managing the economic development capital plan and Premier Transload network in 2019, and now working on strategic land development projects. 

How did you get into the railroad industry?
It was something I was fortunate enough to stumble upon. My background in economic development opened up a door with JLL’s Rail Practice Group where I spent time working on BNSF customer expansion and relocation projects. It was during that time I realized how vital railroads are to the economy and I saw first hand how the economic development team delivers growth opportunities, for BNSF, our customers, and the communities we touch. It makes me proud to work for a company, and in an industry that makes a positive impact.

What is the best career advice you’ve received?
Take charge of your own career development. Set goals, create ways to achieve them, and check in with yourself periodically to see how you are progressing.

What advice would you give to a new railroader?
Don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo. In an established industry, it is important for the new generation of railroaders to remember that their voice matters. Take a seat at the table and don’t be afraid to speak up. 

What was your very first job?
I love spending time outdoors so it is fitting that my first job was a lifeguard at a local fitness club in my hometown. I loved the job (and the tan that came with the job) so much I continued to work as a lifeguard while in college at SFA.

Describe a fun fact about yourself.
While working at the Fort Worth Chamber, I was part of a delegation of city and economic development officials that visited two Chinese cities: Zhaoqing and Guiyang. This was a collaborative effort to develop both cultural exchange and trade opportunities between Fort Worth and these two Chinese cities, and an experience I will never forget.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I have two young, energetic daughters; therefore, most of my spare time is consumed with family outings and activities. During the summer months you can find me by the pool or at the lake with family and friends almost every weekend.