Weekend Foreman William Plut brings more than 15 years of field experience to the Belt’s Engineering training program. He now prepares new hires and seasoned craft professionals to work safely and effectively.

“It gives me an opportunity to benefit my co-workers and keep them safe and educated on a deeper level,” said Plut, who began the responsibility in December 2025. “I can use a lot of the skills I have in the trade.”

Plut began his career with the Belt in October 2009 as a Maintenance of Way laborer and says he’s learned from various mentors since then. He credits those co-workers with passing along the skills and standards he now emphasizes in training.

In his current role, Plut works closely with Engineering employees as they earn and maintain their job-related certifications. This includes FRA requirements as well as safety and HazMat training. 

This past December, Plut led multiple sessions covering the General Code of Operating Rules (GCOR), crane operations and roadway worker protection, among others. Through a series of classes, he recently engaged with around 60 employees within the Engineering Department.

 “Our people have a diverse background; working with them feels new and fresh every day,” he said.

In addition to his training responsibilities, Plut serves as a weekend foreman and oversees maintenance and repair work from Wednesday through Sunday.