The Indiana Rail Road Company (INRD) Board has elevated Derrick Wright to President and CEO, effective Jan. 16. He has served since November 2022 as Vice President, Operations and Mechanical for the 500-mile railroad, a two-time Railway Age Regional of the Year honoree.
Wright has more than 20 years of leadership experience. Prior to joining INRD, he served as Chief Operating Officer at Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District, overseeing the South Shore Line between South Bend and Chicago. He was also Vice President, Operations at Genesee & Wyoming Railroad Services, Inc., where he managed operating departments for 15 short lines and regionals. Wright began his railroad career at CSX, rising through the ranks as Yardmaster, Trainmaster, Terminal Manager, and Superintendent.
“Derrick’s deep industry knowledge and leadership experience make him the ideal choice to guide INRD into its next chapter,” the INRD Board said. “We are confident that under his leadership, INRD will continue to deliver safe, efficient, and innovative transportation solutions for our customers.”
Joe Gioe was the most recent President and CEO of INRD; he signed on last year as Vice President Service Delivery for Manitoba, Canada-based Cando Rail & Terminals.
Further Reading:
Separately, Railway Age is inviting all Class II and III railroads to submit entries for its annual Short Line and Regional Railroad of the Year awards program. The deadline is Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026, at 5 p.m. ET.
