ASLRRA's Short Line Safety Institute hires Long, Malski

The American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association's (ASLRRA) Short Line Safety Institute announced late last week the hiring of two key staff members: Mike Long, senior safety and operations manager; and Michele Malski, safety programs manager.

Both are new positions and will be instrumental in driving the institute's initiatives, institute officials said in a press release.

Long most recently served as senior vice president of compliance at Genesee & Wyoming Railroad, where he was responsible for compliance on 108 small railroads. Prior to G&W, he spent 12 years at the Federal Railroad Administration. He began his railroad career in 1995 with BNSF Railway Co., following eight years of active duty in the U.S. Marine Corps.

At the safety institute, Long will lead the assessor team, according to Executive Director Ron Hynes.

"Mike's extensive and specific experience in driving safety culture and managing key evaluations in his roles at Genesee and Wyoming, and as a Regional Administrator for the Federal Railroad Administration will enable him to add value immediately," Hynes said.

Malski will be responsible for outreach to short line and regional railroads. She also will manage safety and educational projects and initiatives.

Her railroad career has focused on operations, safety and customer service at Amtrak, BNSF, Canadian Pacific (former D&H territory), Norfolk Southern Railway and MARC commuter-rail service at Bombardier Transportation.

"Michele's enthusiasm for the railroad industry and particularly the area of safety culture made her a great choice for the institute," said Hynes.