Trump nominates CSX's Elliott to head PHMSA

President Donald Trump has nominated CSX Corp. Vice President Howard "Skip" Elliott to serve as administrator of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA).

A 40-year veteran of the U.S. freight-rail industry, Elliott is group vice president of public safety, health, environment and security for CSX. His responsibilities cover hazardous materials transportation safety, homeland security, railroad policing, crisis management, environmental compliance and operations, occupational health management, and continuity of business operations.

Elliott is a pioneer and leading advocate in developing and implementing computer-based tools to assist emergency management officials, first responders and homeland security personnel in preparing for and responding to a railroad hazardous materials incident, according to a press release issued by the White House.

Also, Elliott is a recipient of the Association of American Railroads' Holden-Proefrock Award for lifetime achievement in hazardous materials transportation safety.

The Interstate Natural Gas Association of America (INGAA) yesterday announced its support for Trump's nomination of Elliott, which must be confirmed by the U.S. Senate.

"If confirmed, [Elliott] would bring extensive experience and leadership in safety, security, operations and emergency management to PHMSA," said INGAA President and Chief Executive Officer Don Santa in a press release.

In 2016, Elliott was a presenter at Progressive Railroading's Secure Rail Conference.