Progressive Railroading has announced that Michael McGonagle, Vice President of Government Affairs for the NRC and REMSA, is among 25 professionals selected as 2023 Rising Stars of the North American railroad industry.

Progressive Railroading defines a Rising Star as someone under the age of 40 who has made, or is making, a positive impact on his or her company, organization, department or team, and is viewed by others — peers, colleagues, supervisors, clients or associates — as an up-and-coming leader in the rail industry.

The award winners were chosen based on their contributions to the railroad industry, career achievements, demonstrated leadership, professional association activity or community involvement. Progressive Railroading readers submitted nominations for more than 130 individuals who work for Class Is, regionals, short lines, passenger railroads, transit agencies, government entities, associations, engineering firms, contractors, or suppliers.

Matt Ginsberg, President of TGA Association Management Solutions LLC, the firm that manages the NRC and REMSA, nominated Mike and applauded his contributions to the rail industry. “Rising Star is an apt description for Mike,” says Matt  “From joining the NRC as an intern to now being a critical voice in Washington, D.C., advocating on behalf of the rail contractor and supplier industry, Mike has grown tremendously in his role and demonstrates the qualities of a rising star.”

Mike and other Rising Stars were honored in a virtual event on Wednesday, July 26, 2023. See Mike's profile on ProgressiveRailroading.com and in the magazine's September 2023 issue.

This is the eleventh year that Progressive Railroading has sponsored the Rising Stars Awards program. Its dates back to 2013 when Progressive Railroading set out to discover how rail businesses are trying to recruit and retain new railroaders and who are some of the industry's up-and-comers. Their "Rising Stars" program is a by-product of that effort and was launched to identify individuals under the age of 40 who already are making a difference in the rail industry.

About the NRC - The NRC is a U.S. trade association that advances the mutual interests of railway contractors and suppliers who construct, maintain and supply freight railroads and rail-transit and passenger lines. Founded in1978, the NRC connects members with other railway industry professionals and government officials and policy makers. The NRC collaborates with its members, government, and industry leaders to create a positive business climate and to make railway construction and maintenance safer and more efficient.