Driving safety, leadership, and collaboration forward in rail

By Martin Wattenbarger, Sr. Communications Manager

Zoe Bates, Manager of Terminal Operations at Norfolk Southern, has been named one of Railway Age’s 2025 Women in Rail honorees, recognizing her leadership, innovation, and commitment to strengthening rail operations and workplace culture.

Now in its ninth year, the Women in Rail Award celebrates female railroaders across North America who are breaking barriers and driving progress through excellence in leadership, community impact, and service to the industry.

Why it matters

• Leading by example: Zoe manages operations for more than 150 employees across Michigan and Northwest Ohio, advancing safety, communication, and collaboration across teams.
• Improving performance: She helped launch Qualified Mechanical Inspection (QMI) schedules across Detroit, Toledo, and Ft. Wayne, enhancing safety, compliance, and reliability.
• Empowering others: Through mentorship and her involvement in WiNS, Norfolk Southern’s women’s employee resource group, Zoe helps up lift future leaders and advocates for inclusion across the company.

What they’re saying

“Zoe’s leadership represents the best of our railroad — forward-thinking, people-focused, and deeply committed to the core value of safety,” said Jaspreet Pannu, Sr. Assistant Vice President of Transportation. “Her example continues to make Norfolk Southern and our industry stronger.”

Amplifying impact

Zoe’s recognition underscores the growing role of women shaping the future of freight rail. By advancing operational excellence and mentorship, she is helping redefine what leadership looks like across one of the nation’s most dynamic industries.

Learn more about how Norfolk Southern is driving safety, innovation, and inclusion here.