Nearly four years into his career with the Belt, Assistant Foreman Rocco Both has built his reputation on steady growth, teamwork and a willingness to learn.

“Mainline signal construction is always changing, and we’re constantly adapting,” said Signal Foreman Mike Golich. “Rocco is smart and picks things up quickly. I know I can count on him because he’s always willing to go above and beyond.”

Both started in July 2022 as an assistant signalman before moving into a signal maintainer role. From 2022 to 2024, he served as a gang truck driver, an experience he said shaped his technical skills and approach to teamwork. Both later transitioned to a signal maintainer on the hump, continuing to expand his knowledge of the craft.

He said his time on the signal gang stands out as especially meaningful, noting, “You have to work together to get the job done.”

That environment helped him develop the leadership skills he now relies on as an assistant foreman.

Both credited Golich as a key mentor, stating, “Mike is patient and takes his time to teach you, especially with new hires.”

Learning the Signal Department’s systems isn’t something that happens quickly, Both said. He emphasized the importance of studying blueprints and understanding the terminology that comes with the work.

Both takes a deliberate approach to his own development, often reviewing manuals in his downtime.

“I do my homework,” he said. “I want to learn how everything works.”

That dedication traces back to his father, Brian, who owned a construction business and frequently brought him on the job site to instill a solid work ethic.

“We’re trying to teach our kids the same thing,” said Both, as he and his wife, Jill, are raising five children who range in age from 16 to 2.

Family remains a central part of Both’s story. His older brother, Luigi, who died in 2022, served as an important figure growing up.

“He would be proud of me,” said Both, who added that his wife appreciates his efforts to provide for their family too.

Outside of work, Both’s personal story is reflected in a collection of tattoos, including hands clasped in prayer, which he got at age 17, and a fish that Signal Maintainer Timmy O’Connell selected based on a lighthearted challenge.

As he continues his career with the Belt, Both said he remains grateful for the people around him and the role they’ve played in his development.

“I thank everyone in the department for making me who I am,” he said.

I thank everyone in the department for making me who I am

— Assistant Foreman
Rocco Both