General Foreman Nate Smith likes his new responsibilities, which include checking on two locomotives being built at Progress Rail’s facility in St. Louis.

“I enjoy working with them; they’re committed to every detail of the project,” said the former electrician who joined the Belt in 2014.

Smith said the new locomotives will be used in the hump yard and may also perform industry work. They’re slated for delivery this fall after their commissioning process is complete.

In his new role, Smith also is focused on guiding the overhaul process for the Belt’s locomotives with 10-plus years of service and teaching employees the General Code of Operating Rules (GCOR) including blue flag protection. He said he’s proud to positively influence careers and strengthen the Belt’s safety culture.

“As much as I like being at the shop, I look forward to going home, so I work safely to ensure my co-workers and I are able to do so,” Smith said.

Smith and his wife, Kate, have two children, Maeve, 4, and Mallory, 3, who they enjoy spending time with at their cottage in Michigan. He’s also fond of hitting the links, stating he appreciates the challenge golf presents.

As much as I like being at the shop, I look forward to going home, so I work safely to ensure my co-workers and I are able to do so.

— General Foreman Nate Smith