Lee Nelson Appointed Executive Director of SERTC by MxV Rail 

MxV Rail

PUEBLO, Colo. –– Association of American Railroads' subsidiary MxV Rail, announced this week that Lee Nelson has been selected as Executive Director of the Security and Emergency Response Training Center (SERTC). Nelson brings over two decades of hazardous materials emergency response expertise and returns to SERTC during a period of transformative growth and modernization. 

Nelson has an extensive leadership background, serving as Acting Director of Dangerous Goods for North America, along with Director of Operations at Ambipar’s Advanced Rail Training Center.

Nelson said “SERTC has always been recognized for its premier training programs that prepare responders for real-world emergencies. I’m excited to return to an organization that sets the gold standard for hazmat training and emergency response preparedness. Our commitment to providing immersive, realistic training scenarios ensures that responders have the skills and confidence needed to handle complex surface transportation emergencies safely and effectively.” 

Nelson’s career actually began with a stint at SERTC from 2004 to 2006, working as a Hazmat instructor and Tank Car Specialist. Afterward, he advanced through several leadership positions in the industry.

Nikki Toussaint, Senior AVP Marketing & Education at MxV Rail and SERTC, said “Lee taking the helm comes at a pivotal moment for emergency response training. We are well-positioned and poised to lead the transportation sector in training preparedness, even in the face of evolving and uncertain hazards. Our commitment is to stay closely aligned with the railroads and the broader industry to ensure we are training responders for tomorrow’s challenges while addressing today’s risks.” 

Nelson holds numerous certifications, including Hazardous Materials Technician, Advanced Tank Car Specialist, and Hazardous Materials Monitoring. He also serves (or has served) on several industry committees, including NFPA 472, AAR Tank Car, and BOE HAZMAT. Nelson earned his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with an emphasis in chemistry from Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colo. 

Nelson also said “It’s hard to get railroading out of your blood, and SERTC is historically and foremost a railroading facility. So getting back to that is exciting for me personally.”

Lee Nelson, SERTC