Job description: Laura leads Watco's government, industry relations and sustainability efforts. She represents Watco, its customers and the communities it serves when she meets with policymakers at local, state and federal levels in the United States and Canada, keeping natural resources and environmental issues at the forefront.

Why she's influential as a leader: Laura is Watco's lead grant writer and is credited for securing, along with her team, CRISI grants awarded by the Federal Railroad Administration to fund over $250 million in track projects and 24 zero emission locomotives for fiscal-years 2022-2024. She also has been instrumental in securing millions of dollars in state grants and tax credits that benefit railroads and communities throughout the country.

Laura builds relationships with members of Congress, state and local officials, customers, industry peers, advocacy and conservation groups, and the Watco team. She is the driver of Watco's environmental, social and governance efforts, including assembling the sustainability committee. Her leadership style encourages her team members to share their expertise. She is admired for how she treats people, conquers challenges and gives credit to others. She goes out of her way to show respect and kindness to all.