As he gains familiarity with the Belt, Chief Engineer Pat Jones notes one thing stands out right away: its people.

“They’re driven to make this place the best it can be. They care about their work,” said Jones, who joined the Belt on March 17 and oversees the entire Engineering team, except Communications.

Jones brings 27 years of experience from Canadian National Railway, where he recently served as a senior manager of track maintenance.

Jones says the work at the Belt differs as its smaller scale creates more opportunities for direct interaction. Teams meet face to face, which helps strengthen connections and collaboration.

“It’s easier to create relationships,” Jones said. “Everyone is welcoming, and there’s a lot of pride here.”

Throughout his life, Jones has served in various leadership roles, starting with football team captain. He said he’s comfortable making difficult decisions but notes he’s equally focused on bringing people together.

Jones grew up in Cedar Falls, Iowa, where he competed in high school football, track and wrestling. On the football field, he played offensive tackle, earning second-team all-state honors in 1995.

Jones said participating in athletics helped him develop discipline and teamwork, traits that carried into his railroad career. He began working for CN in 1999 as trackman and steadily advanced over nearly three decades.

Now at the Belt, his focus is clear. Safety is No. 1 for employees and railroad operations.

Jones said his goal is to ensure everyone goes home in the same condition they arrived. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining track, signals and other infrastructure so trains can operate safely and efficiently.

Noting his confidence in his new co-workers, Jones said, “This is a really strong team, a great group of accomplished individuals.”