Rio Grande Pacific installs Howery, Wollack in new management posts

Rio Grande Pacific Corp. (RGPC) has named Bob Howery senior vice president of operations and promoted Scott Wollack to general manager of the New Orleans and Gulf Coast Railway.

A 40-year rail industry veteran and third-generation railroader, Howery most recently was president of the New Orleans and Gulf Coast Railway. Prior to joining RGPC in 2010, he served Burlington Northern Railroad and BNSF Railway Co. for 40 years, rising to SVP of operations.

The appointment consolidates the operating strategies of several of the company's short-line enterprises, RGPC officials said in a press release. Howery — who reports to RGPC President Robert Bach — will be responsible for creating new efficiencies and implementing consistent best practices throughout the entire system, they said. He also will supervise overall operating policies for RGPC's four short lines: the Nebraska Central Railroad, New Orleans and Gulf Coast, Idaho Northern and Pacific Railroad, and Wichita, Tillmann and Jackson Railway.

"While we are experiencing exciting overall growth, we need dynamic management to make sure that growth incorporates efficiencies and flexible service for our customers. We know that Bob has the experience and vision to allow us to achieve our objective," said Bach.

Most recently assistant GM of the New Orleans and Gulf Coast, Wollack previously was the short line's manager of train operations. Prior to joining RGPC three years ago, he was a conductor and engineer for CN in Duluth, Minn.