NCRR
NCRR announced Sept. 6 that it has appointed Patrick Pierce, certified economic developer (CEcD), as its new Director of Economic & Business Development. He most recently served as the Economic Development & Government Affairs Director for the Town of Clayton and brings nearly two decades of economic and business development experience.
Previously, Pierce served as the President & CEO of Economic Alliance Snohomish County in the Pacific Northwest, where he also worked for the Puget Sound Regional Council and the Everett Area Chamber of Commerce.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Patrick to NCRR,” said NCRR President & CEO Carl Warren. “His extensive experience and passion for fostering economic growth make him a strong addition to our growing team. He will bring new opportunities for rail-served industries in North Carolina.”
Pierce graduated from the University of Washington with a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in public administration from Seattle University.
“I’m honored to join the North Carolina Railroad Company as the new Director of Economic & Business Development,” said Pierce. “This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a unique company that drives real economic growth across the state.
“I’m eager to build on existing economic development programs like Build Ready Sites and NCRR Invests,” added Pierce. “NCRR will be the go-to partner for communities in North Carolina looking to grow their rail-served and industrial employment opportunities. Great work for North Carolina is already in motion and I’m ready to get to work!”
AITX
AITX on Sept. 9 announced the appointment of Ashley Nelson as Chief Human Resources Officer. She brings “an expert track-record in transforming employee experience, enhancing engagement and retention, and modernizing HR technologies,” the company noted, adding that her arrival “marks a significant step in AITX’s ongoing commitment to innovation, growth and a people-focused culture.”
Nelson joins AITX following nearly two decades of human resources leadership at True Manufacturing in St. Louis, a global leader in refrigeration manufacturing. For the last 10 years, she served as Chief Human Resources Officer, leading a team of more than 35 professionals in human resources and legal and thousands of employees worldwide. During her tenure, Nelson played an instrumental role in fostering a workplace environment that empowered employees to excel, while her leadership in digital transformation initiatives modernized HR processes and strengthened team collaboration and performance.
Nelson holds a master’s degree in human resources management from Lindenwood University and a bachelor’s degree in business from Missouri State University. She has also completed an Executive Compensation Certificate from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, and is SHRM-CP and PHR certified.
AITX, which says it is “known for its emphasis on the strength and quality of its people, often prides itself on having the ‘Best Team in Rail.’” Nelson’s leadership will be “crucial in sustaining and enhancing this culture of excellence as the company continues its growth,” the company noted.
“Our transformation journey continues,” said AITX President Mike McCarthy. “In the past ten months, we’ve made significant progress in integrating new teams, processes, and ways of working. Ashley’s expertise will be vital in ensuring that we not only sustain but also enhance our culture, making AITX a place where every employee can thrive while we achieve operational success.”
NARS
TD Cowen Manager and Railway Age Wall Street Contributing Editor Jason Seidl has been named to the NARS Regional Advisory Council.
He will be representing the North East Association of Rail Shippers (NEARS), which he has been a member of for nearly 20 years, the past 11 of which he has served on the Board of Directors holding numerous positions including President from 2018 to 2019.
