Barksdale will also be working hand-in-hand with Watco's safety training depart¬ment to ensure that training is carried forward into the field. This safety position follows its overall strategy of having a dedicated safety management team leading from the field level and mentoring its managers.

Barksdale has served as general manager of Timber Rock, assistant COO for the Gulf Region and most recently, director of operations for the Gulf Region. He will serve as interim director of operations for the Gulf Region until the position is filled. Prior to joining the Watco team, Barksdale worked for various RailAmerica properties in New England, Indiana and California.