John Vergis
Canton,Ohio
Summary
Results-oriented leader with strong verbal and written communication skills. Experienced in developing educational programs and community outreach, enhancing stakeholder engagement and organizational effectiveness.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Director of Hazardous Materials and Environmental
Wheeling and Lake Erie Railway
Brewster, OH
05.1995 - 04.2026
- Developed and implemented policies to improve safety standards and regulatory compliance within railway operations.
- Spearheaded technology integration projects to modernize operations and improve overall system efficiency across departments.
- Strengthened internal controls by reviewing existing policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Proactively identified potential risks and implemented mitigation strategies to minimize negative impacts on projects or business operations.
- Created detailed emergency response plan alongside storm water management plans to ensure compliance and operational efficiency during crises.
- Directed maintenance activities to ensure optimal functionality of 32 buildings.
- Oversaw contractor operations to ensure efficient project execution on the railroad.
- Developed and implemented educational programs for first responders, focusing on effective and safe responses to railroad incidents.
- Achieved certification as a hazardous materials technician, enhancing team capabilities. Received certification in DOT/RCRA regulations, and also had successful completion of HAZWOPER training.
Worshipful Master
Canton Masonic Lodge #60
Canton, OH
12.2024 - 11.2025
- Planned and executed engaging activities for all 300 members and their families to enhance community and family involvement.
- Coordinated daily management tasks at the lodge, focusing on operational excellence and member satisfaction.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
Board Member
Edgewater Yacht Club
Cleveland, OH
12.2019 - 12.2023
- Provided strategic oversight for club operations, enhancing member engagement and satisfaction.
- Led initiatives to develop annual budgets, ensuring fiscal responsibility and resource allocation.
- Fostered collaboration among board members to drive decision-making on club policies and programs.
- Facilitated community outreach programs, strengthening club presence and membership growth.
Education
High School Diploma -
Canton South High School
Canton05-1994
Locomotive Mechanics - Locomotive Mechanics
Railway Education Bureau
Omaha, NE05-1997
Advanced Tank Car Specialist - Tank Cars
Transportation Technology Center
Pueblo, CO03-2010
Skills
- Relationship building
- Strategic planning
- Verbal and written communication
- Decision-making
- I take pride in my meticulous record keeping skills
- Experienced in building maintenance activities
- Experienced in mechanical repairs on equipment
- Work well with others
- Experienced in supervising contractors effectively
- I am able to analyze and solve problems easily
- People management
- Project management
- Project coordination
Accomplishments
I achieved the Grand Masters award for my Masonic Lodge for the year that I was Master in 2025, which took great planning and proper execution to accomplish.
I belong to an organization that provides free First Responder training to Fire Departments so they can effectively respond to a railroad emergency safely. This is a nationwide organization, and I represent the State of Ohio as their State Coordinator. In 2022, I received coordinator of the year award for my many accomplishments in providing many successful training events for that year.
I was key in developing our Yacht Clubs first Emergency Response Plan and helped develop a robust safety program for all members.
I have worked since 2017 to restore a 1924, 3100 s/f house and performed most of the work myself. I am almost finished.
Affiliations
- Freemason/Canton Lodge #60
- North Industry Christian Church
- TRANSCAER (First Responder Training Organization)
- Secretary for the Stark County Local Emergency Planning Committee
- Edgewater Yacht Club, Cleveland, OH
Certification
Hazardous Materials Technician
DOT/RCRA and HAZWOPER certified
Railroad Tank Car Specialist
Advanced Railroad Tank Car Specialist
Certified Locomotive Mechanic
Languages
English
Interests
- Exploring famous landmarks, historical sites, and cultural attractions in a new destination
- I enjoy helping others and giving back to the community
- DIY and Home Improvement
- I like working with my hands and fixing things
- Outdoor Recreation
- Volunteering
- Road Trips
- Boating
- Coin Collecting
- Antiques
Timeline
Worshipful Master
Canton Masonic Lodge #60
12.2024 - 11.2025
Board Member
Edgewater Yacht Club
12.2019 - 12.2023
Director of Hazardous Materials and Environmental
Wheeling and Lake Erie Railway
05.1995 - 04.2026
High School Diploma -
Canton South High School
Locomotive Mechanics - Locomotive Mechanics
Railway Education Bureau
Advanced Tank Car Specialist - Tank Cars
Transportation Technology Center