CLINTON NOWELS
Spokane,WA
Summary
Results-driven railroad operations leader with 26 years of BNSF Railway experience seeking to leverage deep operational knowledge and proven relationship management skills in a customer-facing sales role. Expert in strategic planning, cross-functional collaboration, problem-solving, and developing transportation solutions across complex supply chain environments. Recognized for building strong partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, driving process improvements, and delivering cost-effective solutions that enhance service and efficiency.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Division Trainmaster
BNSF Railway
01.2015 - Current
- Manage relationships with 400+ employees, Labor Relations, Union Representatives, and Legal teams, serving as primary liaison for operational issues and strategic solutions
- Develop and implement strategic plans to optimize terminal operations, reduce costs, and improve service reliability across complex multi-modal operations
- Lead cross-functional teams through SIRP processes, aligning diverse stakeholders to resolve supply chain disruptions and operational challenges
- Train and mentor 8+ trainmasters on investigation protocols, operational procedures, and best practices, demonstrating strong presentation and communication skills
- Conduct weekly coordination calls with multiple departments to align priorities, resolve issues, and ensure seamless service delivery
- Analyze operational data to identify opportunities for efficiency improvements, resulting in measurable cost reductions
- Operate in 24/7 on-call environment with flexible availability across irregular hours, nights, and weekends
Terminal Trainmaster
BNSF Railway
01.2013 - 01.2015
- Built comprehensive service plans maintaining fluidity through complex operations with 20+ daily events and 6 priority customer movements
- Managed customer-facing operations including 5 industry jobs serving local businesses and coordinating equipment, pricing considerations, and service solutions
- Led regulatory compliance testing ensuring adherence to FRA standards and company policies across terminal operations
- Developed transportation solutions for customers by coordinating equipment availability, train schedules, and operational resources
- Resolved customer claims in collaboration with Union representatives and Legal, demonstrating diplomatic problem-solving and relationship management
- Coordinated train operations to ensure timely departures and arrivals across terminal network.
Yardmaster
BNSF Railway
01.2003 - 01.2013
- Coordinated daily operations ensuring on-time service delivery and customer satisfaction through efficient resource allocation
- Managed crew resources to optimize productivity while maintaining safety and service standards
- Implemented training programs on hazmat handling and operational compliance, demonstrating strong instructional and communication abilities
- Documented operational metrics and coordinated with leadership on performance improvements and corrective actions
Switchman
BNSF Railway
01.1999 - 01.2002
- Gained foundational knowledge in railroad operations, equipment handling, and safety protocols
- Trained new employees on procedures and safety requirements, developing early leadership and mentoring skills
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration - Business Management, Economics, Psychology (Industrial/Organizational)
Eastern Washington University
Skills
- Relationship Management: 26 years building partnerships with diverse stakeholders including unions, legal teams, and operational groups
- Strategic Planning: Proven ability to develop and execute comprehensive operational and service plans
- Problem-Solving: Expert at analyzing complex situations, identifying root causes, and implementing effective solutions
- BNSF Operational Knowledge: Deep understanding of railroad operations, equipment, interline processes, and service capabilities
- Cross-Functional Leadership: Skilled at aligning multiple departments and stakeholders to achieve common goals
- Communication: Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills with experience training and mentoring employees
- Technical Proficiency: Microsoft Office Suite, CRM tools (TSS, TMDS), analytical software (Yard Viz, OPR Tool, TPP)
- Supply Chain Understanding: Economics and Industrial/Organizational Psychology background supporting business acumen
Timeline
Division Trainmaster
BNSF Railway
01.2015 - Current
Terminal Trainmaster
BNSF Railway
01.2013 - 01.2015
Yardmaster
BNSF Railway
01.2003 - 01.2013
Switchman
BNSF Railway
01.1999 - 01.2002
Bachelor of Business Administration - Business Management, Economics, Psychology (Industrial/Organizational)
Eastern Washington University