Sean Winkler named rising star in the railroad industry
Sean Winkler was named a rising star in the railroad industry by Progressive Railroading magazine. Read his full profile.
Selected excerpts below:
Job responsibilities: Assists clients with water, railroad and general infrastructure issues before the federal government. Serves as the primary client manager of the San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission and the San Joaquin Joint Power Authority, which jointly manage the ACE commuter-rail service and the Amtrak state-supported route the San Joaquins. Also works with county and municipal governments, Class Is and other commuter-rail agencies.
Career path: After graduation, joined then-Maryland Delegate Jon Cardin's campaign for attorney general. Worked on fundraising for about a year, then was moved to Cardin's Annapolis office to work on legislation during the Maryland General Assembly session.
Next, took an entry-level lobbying job in Washington. Soon after, stumbled upon an opportunity with the Railway Engineering-Maintenance Suppliers Association (REMSA) to build out its grassroots advocacy and membership engagement program. After a brief hiatus from the industry, accepted a position at Tai Ginsberg & Associates.
How did you get into the railroad industry? Mostly luck. I applied to be the grassroots coordinator at REMSA and was fortunate enough to be hired. However, rail and transit has always played an important part in my life. My grandfather worked on high-speed trains in Japan as an engineer and I relied on Metra commuter trains in Chicago to get to high school.
What is the best career advice you've received? It has not been advice per se as much as individuals and organizations willing to take a chance on me. I am extremely grateful to every person who has taken an interest in my life, family and career. I owe much of the success in my career to my colleagues, mentors and peers.
What advice would you give to a new railroader? Dive into the industry and build relationships. The rail industry enjoys a long and storied history, and many railroaders are more than willing to share their passion and knowledge with those that are curious and open-minded. Attending industry events, putting yourself out there and not being shy will help any new railroader hit the ground running and thrive.