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July 2021
Nominator's quote: "[His] leadership has made a significant impact on proactive detection and reduction of crime on the network. His efforts to develop and train employees and public agencies to recognize, record and report has had a positive impact in the communities where CSX operates. Additionally, his leadership has contributed to public awareness of the signs of human trafficking and proper reporting." — Diana Sorfleet, CSX
Education: DePauw University, B.A. in philosophy; Tiffin University, M.S. in criminal justice administration.
Job responsibilities: Responsible for regulatory and public communications, and coordination of internal and external stakeholders regarding emergency and non-emergency incidents.
Career path: Worked as a police officer in Indiana for six years; began railroad career in 2010 with the CSX Police Department working as a special agent located in Indianapolis. In 2013, relocated to Jacksonville, Florida, and began working as a manager of infrastructure protection. Promoted to director of the Public Safety Coordination Center in 2017.
How did you get into the railroad industry? In 2009, CSX provided grade crossing collision investigation training to local police officers due to an expected increase in train traffic. During the training, I noticed a contradiction between the training information and what existed in the city regarding warning devices. A friendly debate ensued and after the training, the instructor and I went to the area of my concern. The instructor recognized the concern and immediately made arrangements to resolve the issue. He thanked me for the way I approached the issue with him and told me that I should come work for CSX. We briefly talked about the railroad industry. A few months later, I applied and accepted an open position with the CSX Police Department.
What is the best career advice you've received? That people will rise or fall to your level of expectation.
What advice would you give to a new railroader? Opportunity comes in many forms. Find opportunity in your failures and create opportunity by serving in your community.
What was your very first job? At 15, I worked as a cashier for a local swimming pool. I was too young to be certified as a lifeguard.
Describe a fun fact about yourself. I have a goal to visit every U.S. National Park. Currently I’m at 12 of 63.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? Cooking, working out and traveling.
What is the rail industry's biggest challenge? The rail industry’s biggest challenge is itself. It is a long-standing industry that can be complacent due to its past success. This can stifle the industry’s ability to reach its full potential and opens the door to legislation that attempts to force the industry’s evolution.
It can also discourage railroads from changing current business models or fostering radical innovation. I am proud that CSX recognizes the need to reinvent itself and break through the complacency. This sets unprecedented trends for other roads to follow, which moves our industry out of its own way.
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