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By: Val Kucherenko

By the time Terry Hartwig from The Belt Railway Company of Chicago stepped into the classroom at Michigan State University, he had already spent years navigating the rail industry. But as he puts it, “I believe it had a big impact on my career. Opened my eyes to all the different aspects of this industry. Something I wouldn’t have experienced elsewhere.” 

The Railway Management Certificate Program (RMCP), offered through the Eli Broad College of Business at Michigan State University, has quietly become one of the transformative experiences for North American railway professionals. Now approaching its 20th anniversary, this immersive program is far more than just a leadership course – it is a community, a think tank, and, for many, a defining turning point in their careers. 

The Engine Behind RMCP 

The idea behind the RMCP is simple: bring together mid-to-senior-level rail professionals and equip them with the tools to think strategically, lead effectively, and operate with a broadened understanding of the entire railway system. Offered in four 5-day sessions across multiple cities – including the Michigan State University campus in Lansing and industry hubs such as Washington, Newark/New York, Fort Worth, Pueblo, Indianapolis and Chicago – the program provides deep dives into operations, safety, innovation, marketing, and railway strategy. 

What makes it different? The instructors are not just academics. They are seasoned rail executives and leaders, public policy experts, and consultants who have been in the trenches. The curriculum is shaped by current industry realities and future trends. This is where the next generation of railway leaders is being built. 

Impact on the Industry – One Leader at a Time 

Since its inception, more than 300 professionals have completed the RMCP. These graduates represent over 80 organizations across the United States, Canada and Mexico – including Class Is, regional railroads and short lines, government agencies, transportation companies and infrastructure suppliers. 

Many of them have gone on to assume broader roles in their organizations, spearhead major change initiatives or lead new lines of business. 

Just ask Joseph Morris, who joined the program while serving as Assistant Superintendent – East Road Operations at Amtrak. “This program is very organized and provides railroad managers a great opportunity to increase their knowledge of the overall industry. It also provides a great networking opportunity to get to know others in the industry from all over the country.” After completing the program, Joe was promoted to Superintendent and now leads operations across the Central Region. 

Or take the case of Nick Edelen, a Vice President of Operations at R.J. Corman Railroad Group who attended the program in 2016. “The MSU RMCP is a phenomenal program for those who are interested in developing themselves professionally within the railway industry.” 

Personal Connections That Power the Future 

While the curriculum is rigorous, what participants often talk about most is the peer learning and lasting relationships they form. Over coffee breaks, in breakout groups and during industry site visits, participants connect in ways that last far beyond the final session. 

“The people you meet in the program become your sounding board, your collaborators, and in many cases, your friends,” says Ron Batory, former Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration from 2018 to 2021. 

Ron Batory himself, a longtime champion of the program, offers his perspective: “During my railroad career, I elected to utilize this program. In retrospect, it was beneficial in nurturing a ‘greenhouse of talent’ for ongoing organizational ‘bench strength’.” 

Real-World Relevance, Real-Time Application 

Participants are encouraged to bring live challenges from their work into the classroom. Whether it is evaluating a new project, restructuring a customer service process or designing a workforce retention strategy, the RMCP becomes a testing ground for real-world innovation. 

The structure of the program – with sessions spaced over several months – allows participants to test ideas in real time, bring back insights, and build on them session after session. 

Why Now? 

Rail is facing a once-in-a-generation transition. Changing trade patterns, automation, climate imperatives and workforce shifts are converging to challenge old paradigms. Leadership agility is no longer a nice-to-have. It is essential. 

That is why MSU’s RMCP continues to grow in demand. It meets professionals where they are – mid-career, often promoted without formal leadership training – and gives them not just tools, but a vision. A roadmap. And a network. 

Ready to Get on Board? 

Applications are now open for the 2025 cohort. Sessions will run in April, June, September and November, with each taking place in a different location to expose participants to a variety of railway environments and challenges. 

The RMCP is more than a certificate. It is a commitment – to yourself, to your team, and to the future of rail. 

If you are ready to go from doing the job to shaping the future of the job, it is time to take the next step. 

Visit the Center for Railway Research and Education to learn more and reserve your spot in the 2025 Railway Management Certificate Program.