Russel Pickett
Shreveport,LA
Summary
Accomplished leader in rail operations, specializing in regulatory compliance and training. Committed to fostering a culture of safety and mentorship, contributing to significant cost savings and improved operational performance.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
2
2
Certification
Work History
Locomotive Engineer
Kansas City Southern Railway
07.1997 - Current
- Operated locomotives safely and efficiently, adhering to federal regulations and safety protocols.
- Conducted routine inspections on equipment, identifying maintenance needs and ensuring operational readiness.
- Collaborated with dispatchers to coordinate train movements, optimizing schedules and minimizing delays.
- Mentored junior engineers in safe operation practices and troubleshooting techniques for locomotive systems.
- Inspected locomotives before and after runs.
- Assisted in training new Locomotive Engineers, sharing knowledge and best practices for optimal job performance.
- Reduced fuel consumption with strategic train handling techniques, resulting in significant cost savings.
- Skillfully operated multiple types of locomotives across diverse terrains, displaying adaptability and flexibility in challenging situations.
- Demonstrated a commitment to continuous improvement by participating in company-wide safety initiatives and attending regular training sessions.
Freight Conductor
Kansas City Southern Railway
05.1995 - Current
- Coordinated train operations to ensure timely and safe transportation of freight.
- Monitored train schedules and communicated with dispatch for efficient routing.
- Conducted inspections of rail cars and tracks to maintain safety standards.
- Collaborated with team members to resolve operational issues on the rail network.
- Trained new employees on safety protocols and operational procedures.
- Identified potential risks during daily operations, taking proactive measures to mitigate hazards and maintain safety standards.
Quality Assurance Operating Practice Manager
Kansas City Southern Railway
09.2020 - 02.2024
- Maintained the certification records for the Locomotive Engineers, Remote Control Operators and Conductors
- Maintained the Carrier's part 240 and 242 records
- Produced and presented the parts 240, 242, and 219 records at the annual FRA 309 meetings
- Knowledgeable and proficient with compliance of the testing program under part 217
- Trained and qualified the Road Foreman of Engines and administered the "DSLE" programs
- Supported the process for planning/implementing proactive procedures and systems for a safer operations
- Handled all OCRB cases on behalf of the Carrier
- Served as an "Expert Witness" on behalf of the Carrier in Court preceding
- Evaluated practice workflows regularly to identify areas for improvement and implement necessary changes efficiently.
- Provided supervision and management to the RFE team
- Oversaw daily operations to ensure compliance with safety regulations and operational standards.
Terminal Trainmaster
Kansas City Southern Railway
01.2019 - 09.2020
- Oversaw daily train operations, ensuring timely departures and arrivals.
- Verified train consist accuracy.
- Coordinated crew schedules to optimize workforce efficiency and coverage.
- Implemented safety protocols, enhancing compliance and reducing incidents.
- Mentored junior staff on operational procedures and best practices.
- Analyzed performance metrics to identify areas for process improvement.
- Analyzed and reported the part 217 testing for the Terminal.
- Developed training materials for new hires, fostering a culture of safety.
- Promoted a culture of accountability through consistent enforcement of company policies and procedures among team members.
- Coordinated emergency response plans, ensuring prompt action during critical situations to minimize disruptions and ensure public safety.
- Fostered employee engagement through open communication channels, recognizing individual achievements, and providing opportunities for professional development.
Road Foreman of Engines
Kansas City Southern Railway
10.2014 - 01.2019
- Supervised daily operations of locomotive engineers and remote control operators.
- Coordinated training schedules for engineer trainees.
- Coordinated training for engineer trainees on safety and operational train handling procedures.
- Monitored compliance with safety regulations and train handling procedures through data download of locomotives.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations to ensure operational excellence within the team.
- Conducted regular audits of train handling procedures by riding with the locomotive engineers and remote control operators.
Education
No Degree - Computer Science
Louisiana Tech University
Ruston, LA05-1989
High School Diploma -
Doyline High School
Doyline, LA05-1987
Skills
- Safety rules and regulations compliance testing manager
- Knowledge of train control systems (PTC)
- Knowledge of distributed powered trains
- Regulatory compliance program manager
Certification
DSLE & DSRCO Certified
Languages
Spanish
Limited Working
Timeline
Quality Assurance Operating Practice Manager
Kansas City Southern Railway
09.2020 - 02.2024
Terminal Trainmaster
Kansas City Southern Railway
01.2019 - 09.2020
Road Foreman of Engines
Kansas City Southern Railway
10.2014 - 01.2019
Locomotive Engineer
Kansas City Southern Railway
07.1997 - Current
Freight Conductor
Kansas City Southern Railway
05.1995 - Current
No Degree - Computer Science
Louisiana Tech University
High School Diploma -
Doyline High School