Bryon Sparks
Flagstaff,AZ
Summary
Skilled professional ready to excel in leadership role with focus on results-driven performance. Proven ability to streamline operations and foster team collaboration to achieve organizational goals. Known for reliability and adaptability in meeting changing demands while maintaining high standards.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Supervisor Signals – Southwest Division
BNSF Railway
Flagstaff, AZ
09.2022 - Current
- Achieved high safety standards while managing service and velocity on over 300 miles of mainline transcontinental track. Delivered effective leadership to a team of 11 maintainers and 3 inspectors, collaborating with construction signalmen. Fostered strong partnerships with track operations and structures to optimize performance.
- Directed maintenance planning and budgeting initiatives within BNSF processes. Oversaw compliance with FRA standards and signal engineering protocols. Managed service interruptions and coordinated union agreements. Led material ordering and bid request processes. Conducted pre-bid meetings and surveying efforts. Supervised telecom and radio permit operations and testing activities.
- Cultivated a high-performing team that embraces accountability and ownership in their roles.
- Executed territory improvements focused on maximizing efficiency and maintaining safety standards.
- Coordinated and executed various construction capital projects at once, focusing on quality control and stakeholder communication.
- Oversaw public projects from diagnostic phase through to in-servicing completion.
- Oversaw daily operations to ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
- Monitored performance metrics to identify areas for operational improvement and efficiency gains.
- Facilitated regular safety meetings, promoting a culture of awareness and accountability among team members.
- Applied strong leadership talents and problem-solving skills to maintain team efficiency and organize workflows.
- Enhanced communication within the team by holding regular meetings and encouraging open dialogue among all members.
- Set aggressive targets for employees to drive company success and strengthen motivation.
Supervisor Signal Construction
BNSF Railroad
Phoenix, AZ
06.2018 - 09.2022
- Assisted in managing construction projects within system and southwest division. Supported manager with special projects in southwest division.
- Executed installation of 32 switch point sliders within a two-year timeframe across SW division.
Manager Signal Training – TTC
BNSF Railroad
Overland Park, KS
03.2017 - 06.2018
- Oversaw the instruction of journeyman and apprentice signalman classes. Coordinated class schedules to optimize learning opportunities. Managed the preparation and distribution of weekly signal materials. Executed color eye tests in collaboration with transportation teams. Created comprehensive qualification assessments for inspector foreman and maintainer positions.
- Enhanced team performance by effectively teaching and sharing knowledge with fellow employees.
- Developed expertise in presentation techniques, focusing on clarity, engagement, and audience connection.
- Completed ET program to enhance expertise in signaling systems.
Supervisor Signals – Texas/Gulf Division
BNSF Railroad
Cleburne, TX
10.2013 - 03.2017
- Achieved seamless service and velocity management for mainline track splitting across two divisions, upholding high safety standards. Directed a team of 10 maintainers, 1 inspector, 1 ET, and multiple signalmen. Fostered collaboration with track operations and structures to optimize performance.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and company standards.
- Mentored team members, fostering skill development and enhancing productivity.
Construction Supervisor Signals, System
BNSF Railroad
Lenexa, KS
01.2013 - 10.2013
- Assisted in installation of PTC across three subdivisions. Supported BNSF signalman and contractors daily to promote production and safety. Participated in cutovers for bridge signal interlockers and remote-control power switches. Aided signal engineering team in addressing field program issues. Conducted surveys for new installations and facilitated pre-bid meetings.
Junior Circuit Designer
Lenexa, KS
08.2011 - 01.2013
- Worked in the Signal Engineering office directly with the design team. Built simulated signal systems in the lab and tested them. Burnt chips for field install. Directly worked with engineer contractors to track signal plans for PTC. As-built field plans. Ordered material and paid invoices.
Signalman
Washington
03.2011 - 08.2011
- Installed PTC, signal equipment, retarder yard maintainer at Pasco
Electrician
Prime Electrical Services
San Diego, CA
01.2005 - 01.2011
- Assisted in installation of commercial and industrial electrical systems. Supported customers by addressing issues on live circuits, including adding new components and resolving existing problems.
- Diagnosed electrical issues using specialized diagnostic tools and equipment.
- Installed and maintained electrical systems in residential and commercial buildings.
- Led training sessions for junior electricians on safety procedures and best practices.
- Supervised installation projects, ensuring quality control and adherence to specifications.
Aviation Warfare Systems Operator
US Navy
San Diego, CA
01.2001 - 01.2005
- Executed successful submarine detection missions with tactical and acoustic sonar transducer aboard HS-60 helicopter. Contributed to effective combat search and rescue operations as door gunner. Achieved successful outcomes in over-water rescues as rescue swimmer. Maintained strict oversight of classified materials under command.
Skills
- Training and mentoring
- Goal oriented
- Team building
- Operations management
- Attention to detail
- Decision-making
Certification
- San Diego City College 4-year Electrical Journeyman Certificate
- Johnson County Community College Electronics Tech Certificate
- Johnson County Community College Signalman Certificate
- Aviation Warfare Systems Operator Certificate
- S.E.R.E. School
- CPR Instructor/Professional Rescuer
- Rescue Swimmer School
- Aircrew School
- Excel/Adobe Training
Timeline
Supervisor Signals – Southwest Division
BNSF Railway
09.2022 - Current
Supervisor Signal Construction
BNSF Railroad
06.2018 - 09.2022
Manager Signal Training – TTC
BNSF Railroad
03.2017 - 06.2018
Supervisor Signals – Texas/Gulf Division
BNSF Railroad
10.2013 - 03.2017
Construction Supervisor Signals, System
BNSF Railroad
01.2013 - 10.2013
Junior Circuit Designer
08.2011 - 01.2013
Signalman
03.2011 - 08.2011
Electrician
Prime Electrical Services
01.2005 - 01.2011
Aviation Warfare Systems Operator
US Navy
01.2001 - 01.2005