Progressive Railroading Honors Watco’s Brad Walker

Brad Walker

Director of Safety

Brad Walker, Watco’s Director of Safety, was recently named as a Rising Star for 2020 by Progressive Railroading. He was one of 25 Rising Stars selected from more than 100 nominees.

“I was pretty surprised, pretty taken aback,” Walker said about receiving notification from the magazine. “It was pretty cool to be recognized that way.”

“I’m honored by all means,” Walker said, emphasizing that “it’s a team recognition; this represents the team effort. It’s cool to see Watco recognized.”

Progressive Railroading recognizes individuals under age 40 working for North American railroads and related businesses who have made or are making “a positive impact on his or her company, organization, department or team.” The magazine says a Rising Star “is viewed by others – peers, colleagues, supervisors, clients or associates – as an up-and-coming leader in the rail industry.”

Walker fits the criteria, said Steve Coomes, Senior Vice President of Operations. He calls Walker “an outstanding leader recognized throughout the Watco system as one of the best mentors our company has to offer. “He’s a great person to have on a team with you because there’s nothing off limits to the guy,” Coomes said. “Taking notes, getting coffee, leading the meeting. Whatever you need from him, he’ll do it. He’s very selfless.”

Walker joined Watco in May 2004 as a brakeman to help operate the Kaw River Railroad. He impressed coworkers as a smart, affable guy – a reputation that has followed him the last 16 years as he’s moved through the company’s ranks.

Walker oversees all the company’s transportationrelated safety for Divisions 1-4: railroad and switching operations. Among his responsibilities are data collection; classroom and field safety training; safety for the switching operations; the company’s drug and alcohol program; coordinating audits and inspections; facilitating quarterly and annual safety meetings; and staying current on industry regulations.

Progressive Railroading will post winners’ profiles to its website this summer, and in the September issue.