Empowering Growth: Richard Carney’s Leadership Journey

In the ever-evolving landscape of the rail industry, few leaders exemplify dedication, growth, and a passion for people like Richard Carney, RailWorks Executive Vice President. With over 24 years of experience at RailWorks, Richard has navigated the complexities of the rail sector, transforming challenges into opportunities while fostering a culture of growth and responsibility among team members.

Beginning his career at Southern Pacific Railroad in May 1989, Richard quickly demonstrated a commitment to the industry. After four and a half years, he transitioned to Amtrak, where he climbed the ranks from an entry-level Foreman to Assistant Division Engineer, showcasing his ability to adapt and excel in increasingly challenging roles. In September 2000, he joined RailWorks as a Project Manager. He was tasked with managing the geographic expansion into Northern California. This role marked the beginning of a significant chapter in his career, where he combined his extensive rail experience with leadership skills to build a successful team and operations from the ground up.

Since then, Richard has held various titles, culminating in his current position as Executive Vice President. His journey through the ranks is not only a testament to his skills, but also reflects his deep-seated belief in the importance of supporting and developing the people he works with.

A significant factor in Richard's enduring presence in the rail industry is his unwavering passion for the work and his commitment to the people within RailWorks. He emphasizes the importance of communication, believing that effective leadership is rooted in transparency and the willingness to share knowledge. He states, "I wanted to be a better communicator because of the style that I was managed with early in my career." This approach has fostered an environment where team members feel valued and empowered to take on new challenges.

His leadership style is hands-on, with a focus on mentorship. Since early in his career, Richard would dedicate a substantial portion of his time to teaching others how to perform their roles effectively, which he believes is key to maintaining safety, quality, and productivity within the team.

When it comes to hiring and promoting employees, Richard emphasizes the importance of responsibility and initiative. He seeks individuals who are not only willing to accept their roles, but also demonstrate a commitment to delivering results. He notes, “I want someone to come to the table and say, this is what I can do for you.” This proactive mindset is crucial for nurturing future leaders within the organization.

Richard emphasizes the importance of safety in everyday operations and explains the significance of clarity in one’s role and responsibilities, stating, "there should be a deliberate plan on every job for every person." He stresses that if individuals are unsure about their next steps, it's crucial to "stop until you do," underscoring the importance of asking questions and understanding the overall plan to ensure effective execution in the workplace.

Richard's journey through the rail industry serves as an inspiring example of leadership characterized by growth, communication, and a genuine care for people. His commitment to developing talent and fostering a supportive work environment is not only pivotal for his own success, but also for the success of his team and the broader organization. As the rail industry continues to evolve, leaders like Richard will undoubtedly shape its future, one empowered employee at a time.