The New Orleans Public Belt Railroad Corporation (NOPB), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA), has named M.D. (Mike) Stolzman as its new General Manager, effective immediately.
Stolzman, a veteran railroad executive with extensive short line and Class I rail experience, will report to Brandy D. Christian, President and CEO of Port NOLA and CEO of NOPB, which is a Class III railroad on the nation’s fourth largest rail gateway that connects with six Class I railroads and serves Port NOLA and local industry.
“There was tremendous interest in NOPB’s General Manager position and we were fortunate to attract a wide range of highly qualified candidates,” said Christian. “Mike’s track record, broad skill set, and specific ideas to optimize operations gave him a clear edge in that competitive pool. His previous experience working with Class Is, as well as short lines serving the nation’s top ports were key in his selection. I am confident Mike’s leadership will help NOPB realize its potential and build on our commitment to serve as a responsible urban neighbor.”
Stolzman brings a high level of experience and industry knowledge to NOPB, having served in many leadership roles managing operations, budgets and rail lines during times of change and opportunity.
He served as President of the Pacific Harbor Line (Anacostia Rail Holdings), which was named Short Line Railroad of the Year by the American Short Line Railroad Association in 2009 under his leadership. Pacific Harbor Line provides rail transportation services to the Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles which together form the largest container port in the United States.
Stolzman’s previous experience also includes managing several short line and switching operations as an executive with Anacostia Rail Holdings including Louisville and Indiana Railroad and Gulf Coast Switching Company. His Class I experience includes multiple management positions with Union Pacific Railroad and CANAC, a subsidiary of Canadian National Railway. As a U.S. Army veteran serving as a combat arms officer, Stolzman brings strong leadership skills accompanied with determination to rise to any challenge.
“This is an exciting time for NOPB and the gateway,” said Stolzman. “I look forward to building on the momentum that is already underway by working closely with the Class Is and local customers to enhance their user experience while optimizing operations in a fiscally responsible manner.”
