In an industry that’s in the business of making connections, Jim Hansen has operated in a similar manner, connecting people, businesses and ideas throughout his 43-year career. That's why it was no surprise when he was named among 2021 Railway Age Readers' Influential Leaders.

Through Railway Age's second annual Readers' Influential Leaders online poll, qualified subscribers nominated active (non-retired) people from all areas of the North American's railway industry. Jim was named among the top 10 nominees who were featured in the May 2021 cover story in Railway Age.

Jim has played an integral role in promoting innovation and collaboration across the industry while serving as a leading advocate for railway contractors and suppliers. His ability to build trust and goodwill has garnered much of his success and established him as a steward of the industry.

Jim began his career in the maintenance-of-way department at the Burlington Northern (BN)Railroad. After more than a decade at BN, he served in a series of sales and marketing positions of increasing executive responsibility over the next three decades with ESCO Equipment Service Company, Stanley Railroad Products, and RailWorks Corporation. During that time, Jim dedicated himself to understanding the expanding needs of his railroad clients and championed the introduction of groundbreaking MOW technology, services, and partnerships.

In 2017 Jim joined the Herzog family and leads all marketing efforts for the company’s freight clients. His industry insight and relationships have enhanced Herzog’s position in the marketplace and contributed to advancing its MOW equipment and technology solutions in rail inspection, PTC, signals, and communications.

Through the growth and success of two railway professional associations, Jim has elevated the role of contractors and suppliers in the industry. After serving as a Board member since 2008, in 2020 Jim was named Chairman of the Board for the National Railroad Construction and Maintenance Association (NRC).

Under his direction as president for the past 25 years, the North American Maintenance Railway Club(NAMRC) is now a top railroad networking organization with more than 600 contractor, supplier, and railroad members. Jim also continues to serve as Vice Chair on the Association of American Railroads (AAR) Associate Advisory Board.

Perhaps one of Jim’s most enduring contributions is the generations of industry professionals who have thrived under his mentorship and through the enterprises where he has served.

Congratulations to NRC Chairman Jim Hansen for this well-deserved recognition.

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