Former Transportation General Manager Mike Paras and his wife, Stacey

The American Association of Railroad Superintendents will have its 120th annual meeting in Pittsburgh soon.

A prestigious award bestowed during the event has received a new name honoring one of Belt Railroad’s own. The former Lantern Award for Excellence in Leadership will now be known as the Michael A. Paras Leadership Award. In addition, a scholarship in his name has been established to add to an already well-established legacy. Numerous AARS members remember Paras as a gifted railroader, leader and pillar of integrity.

Superintendent Steve Hoye believes his influence through the course of his 44-year career was vital to the railroad’s success.

“Mike was great at getting people to value a safe culture,” he said. “He led people to work safely.”

Hoye noted Paras’ persistence in building relationships.

“The stronger relationships are, the more accountability you have to others,” he said.