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Rail News Home People

July 2021



Rail News: People

Rising Stars 2021: Harrison Armstrong



Harrison “Chase” Armstrong

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Harrison "Chase" Armstrong, 36
Vice president, commercial development
R. J. Corman Railroad Group LLC

Nominator's quote: "Harrison is well-respected industry-wide and provides a valuable skill set of bringing railroaders from different locations and different experiences together." — Scott Bannwart, Florida East Coast Railway and a 2018 Rising Star

Educational background: Morehead State University, B.A., 2007.

Job responsibilities: Oversees commercial efforts for R. J. Corman Railroad Services, including client relations, pipeline development and budget management for R. J. Corman Railroad Services (emergency), R. J. Corman Railroad Services (non-emergency), R. J. Corman Signaling and R. J. Corman Material Sales.

Railroad career path: Started with R. J. Corman Construction as a business development manager; eventually promoted to corporate account manager, assistant VP and now VP of commercial development.

How did you get into the railroad industry? I had an uncle who was employed at R. J. Corman. He told stories of Mr. Corman and what a great company he had built. I applied for multiple positions and eventually landed in the commercial department.

What is the best career advice you've received? Never ask your employees to do something you are not willing to do yourself.

What advice would you give to a new railroader? Safety should always be priority one. Railroading is an excellent career path. Never make enemies.

What was your very first job? Stacking lumber at the family's sawmill.

Describe a fun fact about yourself. I am an avid Cincinnati Reds baseball fan.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? Spending time with my wife and two children, ages 10 and 8.

What is the rail industry's biggest challenge? Pandemic challenges we faced in 2020 and into 2021 proved that the industry is versatile and essential. We learned the importance of adaptability under all circumstances. The railroad industry is a solid career path, and recruitment of the younger generations for all aspects of the railroads and contracting roles is crucial for the long-term success and continual advancement in the industry.



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