Amtrak Names Mitchell Executive VP of Strategy and Planning

In her new role, Mitchell will be responsible for “setting the long-term strategic vision for Amtrak and managing the Planning, Infrastructure Access, State Partner, Network Development, and Host Railroad functions,” according to the company.

Mitchell, one of Railway Age’s 2018 Women in Rail honorees, is an accomplished industry leader with a career in transportation, having most recently served as Deputy Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and previously as Director of the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT). While at DRPT, Mitchell played an instrumental role in developing the Transforming Rail in Virginia program, expanding capacity in the fast-growing I-95 corridor. Before these roles, Mitchell held various positions managing transportation development projects and earned master’s and bachelor’s degrees in planning. 

“Jennifer has tremendous experience in the railroad industry and private sector that will be instrumental as we continue to grow and expand intercity passenger rail during this time of unprecedented demand,” said Amtrak President Roger Harris. “She’s the right person to lead our planning and strategy as we work to double our ridership by attracting more riders, serving new communities, and transforming passenger rail.”