Celebrating Women of Influence

Attendees from across the rail industry and beyond came together recently to celebrate 50 extraordinary railroaders for their contributions in leadership, innovation, and impact. Among this year’s honorees, NS proudly celebrated four of our own: Mina De Oliveira, VP Enterprise Resources; Jennifer Bailey, Director Mechanical Operations; Cherita Hunter Jones, Senior Manager Grade Crossing and Wayside Engineering; and Devina Miller, Group Manager Operational Efficiency.

Throughout the event, honorees highlighted successes and challenges encountered during their rail careers, reinforcing the importance of curiosity, mentorship, visibility, and using your voice to speak up. Themes of perseverance, fostering collaboration, and creating opportunities for future generations were central to the conversation.

“Ask questions, get out of your comfort zone, and learn,” Mina said. “No one knows everything, but if you connect to your network, get to know people and understand what they're working on, you can make things happen together.”

Mina – recognized for her accomplishments in sustainability – was also one of four distinguished panelists offering insight and expertise during the group discussion and Q&A portions of the event.

“You have to understand how the data and what happens in the field connect,” Mina added. “Working together with this information, we can make things better and more sustainable. It's about making sure we leave a planet that our kids, our grandkids, and all future generations can live in.”

Congratulations to each of these outstanding railroaders and thank you for everything you do to make NS successful.