A Success Story from the Refugio Transload Terminal

Business is quickly growing at the Refugio Transload Terminal in Texas.

Previously a sand receipt facility operated by Watco but owned by a third party, it’s now a Watco-owned facility. Following the sale nine short months ago, this site has since transformed into a full-service terminal offering transload, rail car storage, and more capabilities for customers across different industries.

At the helm of operations for the new Texas terminal is Hilda Morin. Since joining the team in 2011, she’s served in many roles, from operator and supervisor to assistant terminal manager, and now terminal manager.

Her supervisor, Watco Assistant Vice President of Operations Nathan Holmes, credits Morin for quickly equipping the team with the training needed to start new operations at the terminal.

“This team went from just handling sand to many different types of product,” Holmes said. “The team was eager to learn throughout the entire transition, which is a reflection of Hilda’s leadership.”

Morin’s work ethic and natural leadership ability are just two reasons why Morin’s former supervisor, Watco Vice President of Operations Jeff Ecret, hired her. He said, “From the very start she’s been totally dedicated. She cares deeply for her team.”

When the terminal landed a cottonseed customer, it was up to Morin to get her team up to speed on handling the product. Moving this product from truck to rail requires using heavy equipment. To ensure her team had the training necessary to do this, she sent team members to another Watco facility to get certified in operating a front-end loader.

Morin said, “I’m a cheerleader for the team. My team, past and present, are the best of me.”

When this customer made their first on-site visit to the terminal, they were quickly impressed by the team’s efficiency and commitment to safety. They got to know Morin as she gave a tour of the facility and thoroughly explained operations, safety protocols, and Watco’s approach to business.

According to Watco Vice President of Sales Maureen Solomon, the customer was ultimately pleased with the service they received and are considering a multi-year deal with the Refugio Transload Terminal.

“One of the main reasons this customer is considering Watco for a multiyear deal is because of Hilda and her team,” Solomon said. “She impressed not only one of the nation’s largest cottonseed manufacturers, but all of us who work with her.” L to R: Gregory Wooldridge, engineer; Juan Garza, operator; Hilda Morin, terminal manager; James Chinowith, engineer; and Richard Wheeler, maintenance supervisor.

Featured photo L to R: Gregory Wooldridge, engineer; Juan Garza, operator; Hilda Morin, terminal manager; James Chinowith, engineer; and Richard Wheeler, maintenance supervisor.