Aadnesen retires as GREX executive chairman

Georgetown Rail Equipment Co. Executive Chairman Chris Aadnesen has retired after a four-decade career in the rail industry.

He joined the GREX board in 2003, served as chairman from 2007 to 2010 and served as vice chairman from 2010 through 2013. He was elected executive chairman in 2013.

Aadnesen's other rail leadership roles included chief executive officer of Alaska Railroad Corp., vice president of national freight-rail services for HNTB Corp. and CEO of Estonian Railways. He also served as executive vice president and chief operating officer of Transportacion Ferroviaria Mexicana (now Kansas City Southern de Mexico), as well as president of Texas Mexican Railway Co.

"Chris's experience in the railroad industry is extensive, so having him as a close adviser helped our business tremendously," said GREX President Greg Grissom. "He offered a wealth of knowledge as we expanded our product line and GREX grew into a big player in maintenance of way. We'll miss his day to day involvement, and we wish him all the best in retirement."

In 2011, Progressive Railroading profiled Aadnesen during his time as president and CEO of Alaska Railroad.