Rising Stars: Nick Edelen, R. J. Corman Railroad Group

Nick Edelen, 35

Vice president of operations
R. J. Corman Railroad Group

Job description: Manages the operational, financial and administrative aspects of R. J. Corman's Emergency Services company. Responsible for overseeing more than 200 employees in 18 divisions across the United States.

Education: Bachelor of science in business administration, Georgetown College

Career path: In 2009, Edelen started his career at R. J. Corman as a management trainee. A year later, he moved into a permanent role as business analyst for R. J. Corman Derailment Services. Over the next four years, he worked as a business analyst, business manager, and business and contract manager. In January 2017, he was promoted to his current role.

Nominator's quote: "A significant part of the success that R. J. Corman Railroad Services Emergency Response has seen in recent years is due to Nick. He has taken the knowledge he obtained from his various roles throughout his nine years with the company, and applied it to every obstacle he has faced. He creates solutions, shows tremendous leadership and customer service, and has truly shown himself to be a Rising Star in the industry." — Ed Quinn, R. J. Corman Railroad Group

Why did you go into railroading? My initial choice to join this industry was not about railroading. I wanted to join R. J. Corman because of the company's image and reputation. I personally strive to be the best and so does R. J. Corman.

What career accomplishment are you most proud of so far? In 2011, R. J. Corman spent a significant amount of time in the Midwest performing flood cleanup for multiple customers. Through my current role, I was able to work closely with one of our customers' operations, accounting, and audit departments. We developed systems that ensured complete, accurate and timely information and billing. The accuracy of information earned R. J. Corman a special note of thanks from the top-level executive of our customer. Additionally, the work we did on that site was developed into standardized practices that are still being used today.

What do you hope to be doing or learning in five years? I plan on still being a part of the R. J. Corman team, helping us to continue to grow within the railroad industry. This industry is ever-changing and so are our customers' needs. I plan on continuing to learn how to work with our customers and not just for our customers.

What do you enjoying doing when you're not at work? I enjoy spending time with my family. I have an amazing wife who supports me in everything I do and who I love completely. My 3-year old son makes me laugh every day and my 1-year old daughter is beautiful beyond words.