Rising Stars: Victor Meyers, Red River Valley & Western Railroad Co.

Victor Meyers, 35

President
Red River Valley & Western/Twin Cities & Western Railroad Cos.

Job description: Leads and guides the company's long-term strategy. Responsible for ensuring the railroad provides safe, effective and efficient freight-rail transportation services to customers and communities.

Education: B.S. in economics, Rocky Mountain College; M.B.A., Texas Christian University

Nominator's quote: "Victor's wisdom belies his age. He is a visionary and a realist, and I expect that he will be a leader in our industry for the next 20-plus years." — Mark Wegner, CEO of Red River Valley & Western Railroad Co./Twin Cities & Western Railroad Co.

Briefly describe your career path. I started my career with BNSF Railway. After working for BNSF for seven years in a variety of positions, I accepted an opportunity with the Twin Cities & Western Railroad Co. (TCWR) in Minnesota as vice president operations. I spent five years with TCWR before transitioning to my current position as president with Red River Valley & Western Railroad Co. (RRVW) in North Dakota.

Why did you go into railroading? My family — grandfather, father, uncles — worked for railroads, so it was always something that interested me. I was (and still am) fascinated by and loved the proud history of the industry and the important role that freight-rail transportation plays in the U.S. economy.

What career accomplishments are you most proud of? TCWR was able to work injury free for over a full calendar year for the first time in its 25-year history. It was great to be a part of the team that accomplished that achievement and the camaraderie that was created as a result.

What do you enjoy doing when you're not at work? Spending time with my wife, Crystal, and our three dogs — Bailey, Molly and Freddie. Also, I enjoy outdoor activities, such as golf and cycling.

Who or what has been the biggest inspiration in your career? I have been lucky to have a number of great role models. I can't say that there is a single person who is completely responsible for inspiring me, but there are many who have provided inspiration, which I have tried to integrate into my career.

What do you hope to be doing in five years? Making a positive difference in the industry and with the people I have the opportunity to work with and for.