Richard Kloster Sworn in as Fourth Member of Surface Transportation Board

Richard Kloster (Photo courtesy of LinkedIn)

WASHINGTON, D.C. –– Richard J. Kloster was sworn in today as the fourth member of the Surface Transportation Board.  Mr. Kloster was confirmed by the Senate on May 18, 2026, for a term ending December 31, 2028. Kloster, a Republican, was nominated by POTUS 47 in September 2025.

For the last 17 years, Mr. Kloster has been the president and founder of Integrity Rail Partners, Inc., a transportation consulting company that provides strategic consulting services to the rail equipment and railroad industries.  He has extensive experience in the rail industry, including strategic planning, acquisitions, and marketing.

Prior to his consulting work, Mr. Kloster worked for a major rail car lessor, several Class I and shortline railroads, the industry’s leading rail car fleet management company, and a leading transportation economic forecasting and consulting firm.  He has served as a board member on several transportation groups, including The National Industrial Transportation League and the Railway Supply Institute.  He also holds three patents for rail car innovations.

Mr. Kloster earned a Master of Arts from the University of Alabama and a Bachelor of Science from Northern Illinois University.