ANNOUNCEMENT OF AREMA Board of Governors 2023 Election

to AREMA, I cherish spending quality time with my family. I have a 5-year-old and a 20-month-old, and being a parent has been a profoundly rewarding experience. Watching my children grow and learn brings me immense joy.

5. Tell us about your family!

My family is incredibly important to me. I am blessed with a loving spouse and two amazing children. ey bring so much happiness and ful llment to my life. Being a parent has taught me valuable lessons about patience, resilience, and the importance of nurturing relationships. My family is my support system, and their unwavering support enables me to pursue my career and actively contribute to the railway industry.

6. If you could share one interesting fact about yourself with the readers of RT&S, what would it be?

I enjoy most outdoor activities which allow me to unwind and appreciate the beauty of nature. I particularly enjoy soccer, hiking, and biking.

7. What is your biggest achievement?

While I have achieved several professional milestones throughout my career, my biggest achievement is undoubtedly my family. Being a parent and seeing my children grow and thrive brings me immense pride and ful llment. eir happiness and well-being are my top priorities, and I consider the love and bond we share as my greatest accomplishment.

8. What advice would you give to someone who is trying to pursue a career in the railway industry?

To someone pursuing a career in the railway industry, my advice would be to soak it all in. e rail industry is a unique eld that o ers a wide range of opportunities and experiences. Embrace the chance to learn about the various operational disciplines and technologies involved. Stay curious, be open to new challenges, and actively seek out mentors who can guide you along your career path. Additionally, networking and involvement in professional organizations like AREMA can provide valuable connections and insights.

The Governance Nominating Committee, Chaired by Past President Michael P. Freeman, PE has completed its task and the following nominee has been o cially elected: Mr. Brent L. Laing, P.Eng. – Board of Governors. He will begin his Board of Governors position at the conclusion of the AREMA 2023 Annual Conference which is being held in Indianapolis, Indiana, October 1-4, 2023.

Brent Laing is a professional engineer with extensive Class I heavy haul freight railway technical and management experience. Brent was Vice President Engineering, and Chief Engineer of Canadian Pacific Railway, with overall responsibility for engineering issues in Canada and the US. He has led corporate environmental teams as Director Environmental Affairs, locomotive and freight car repair teams as General Manager Mechanical Operations, technical staff as General Manager Structures and Projects and as General Manager Track Maintenance. He retired from CP in 2015 and started up his own consulting business.

Brent was appointed to VP Engineering at Canadian National Railway in June 2022 and has system responsibility for all engineering functions at CN.

Brent is a long-time member of AREMA and a professional engineer for over 37 years

Elected as Governor (2023 – 2026)

Name Brent L. Laing, P.Eng.

Title

Vice President Engineering

Organization/Company

CN

Rail A Caterpillar Co