Farmrail, Pioneer Railcorp realign management

Farmrail System Inc. has appointed Judy Petry president and general manager; J. R. Gelnar, vice president of engineering and safety; and Brandon Friesen, safety officer.

Most recently, Petry was controller, Gelnar was roadway superintendent and safety officer, and Friesen served as compliance officer.

Farmrail also recently launched a revamped website at www.farmrail.com. The redesigned site is more informative, Farmrail officials said in an online announcement.

Meanwhile, Pioneer Railcorp subsidiary Pioneer Railroad Services Inc. has realigned several management positions.

Vice President of Mechanical and Customer Service Joe Evans will retire on March 31, but continue to have limited involvement with the company in the coming years to help ensure a smooth transition and offer his expertise, Pioneer Railcorp officials said in a press release.

VP of Transportation and Operations Shane Cullen will assume Evan’s duties and the title of VP of mechanical and operations. Cullen will be responsible for all matters involving the company's rail-car fleet, inquiries regarding the leasing of locomotives and equipment, AAR billing and car storage services.

He also will oversee the operations center with assistance from Bob Athens, whose new title will be director of operations center.

In addition, Tom Black will become VP of safety and transportation and assume responsibility for all matters involving railroad operations, safety and training, and Nathan Johns has been promoted to VP of marketing and government affairs, Pioneer Railcorp officials said.