Rising Stars: Ann Waters, Genesee & Wyoming Inc.

Ann Waters, 33

Assistant vice president of mechanical
Genesee & Wyoming Railroad Services Inc.

Job description: Tasked with managing daily operating expenses and annual capital planning for track maintenance-of-way equipment, as well as reducing costs and improving reliability. Oversees project planning, logistics and financial analysis.

Career path: After obtaining her bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering in 2007, Waters took a job with Bechtel Plant Machinery Inc. in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where she did government contracting work for the Nuclear Navy. In 2014, she accepted a position as mechanical director with Atlas Railroad Construction in Jacksonville, Florida. She has since transitioned into railroad engineering services as part of Genesee & Wyoming (G&W).

Education: Bachelor of Science, mechanical engineering, Gannon University; Master of Science, mechanical engineering, University of Pittsburgh; project management professional certification, Project Management Institute

Nominator's quote: "Ann's knack for project management and continuous improvement are helping G&W railroads become safer and more efficient. Since joining the company in 2014, Ann has spearheaded several impactful projects," — Ray Goss, G&W

What career accomplishment are you most proud of so far? While I'll always be proud to know my accomplishments with Bechtel Plant Machinery played an integral part in keeping our Navy sailors safe and ready for duty, I take great pride in having been nominated and selected for several railroad accolades in just a short time. Such recognition has shown me that railroading is an industry that recognizes hard work, encourages new ideas, and supports its employees. I take great satisfaction in knowing that I'm working for one of the safest railroads in the world and one that takes pride in sending its employees home at the end of each day.

Describe an interesting fact about you. From a young age, I found a knack for a softball glove. My childhood love grew into a passion that afforded me the opportunity to play NCAA Division II softball at Gannon University. While the success of our team was a feather in our cap, it's the memories and lifelong relationships that will always bring a smile to my face.

Who's been the biggest inspiration in your career? The inspiration that keeps me moving forward each day has not come from a single person or experience, but rather a way of life that I've observed through my family. For as long as I can remember, they have been by my side supporting each of my endeavors. Their selfless acts of putting me first taught me that in order to become part of something bigger, I need to look beyond myself.

What do you hope to be doing or learning in five years? I've learned that success isn't a specific job title, a fancy office or an expensive car. Success is waking up each day with more knowledge, maturity, experience and poise than you had the day before. Wherever my future takes me, my hope is that I maintain an eager mind, a respectful character, a positive attitude and a thankful heart. In doing so, I believe I will find success in all the ways I've imagined.