Alaska Railroad Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Alaska Railroad has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, and commercial development.

Driven by a commitment to connectivity, Alaska Railroad provides essential freight and passenger transportation services, while also managing significant land assets, underscoring its vital role in regional economic infrastructure.

Leadership Roles at Alaska Railroad

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Christopher Aadnesen
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - William O'Leary
  • Chief Financial Officer - Michelle Maddox
  • Chief Operating Officer - Douglas Engebretson
  • Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - Matthew Glynn
  • President - Becca Rosal
  • Chief Operations Officer - Clark Hopp
  • Christopher Aadnesen - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Christopher Aadnesen, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Alaska Railroad, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the company. Aadnesen guides the organization's freight and passenger transportation services, ensuring efficient and reliable delivery across its network. This leadership role involves setting the vision for land asset management and leasing, aligning these activities with the railroad's core mission. Aadnesen's focus remains on driving growth and maintaining the integrity of Alaska Railroad's extensive infrastructure. The executive's responsibilities encompass fostering key stakeholder relationships and ensuring the company's long-term financial health and operational excellence. Christopher Aadnesen's strategic direction is paramount to the railroad's continued success and its contribution to the Alaskan economy.

    William O'Leary - President & Chief Executive Officer

    William O'Leary, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Alaska Railroad, spearheads the company's strategic initiatives and overall business direction. O'Leary oversees the critical functions of freight and passenger transportation, ensuring seamless operations throughout the extensive rail network. This executive's purview extends to the management and strategic utilization of the railroad's land holdings, maximizing their value and contribution to the company's portfolio. O'Leary is dedicated to enhancing the efficiency and reach of Alaska Railroad's services, supporting regional commerce and connectivity. The leadership of William O'Leary is central to navigating market dynamics and advancing the company's mission of providing essential transportation solutions and managing valuable assets.
    William O'Leary

    Michelle Maddox - Chief Financial Officer

    Michelle Maddox, the Chief Financial Officer at Alaska Railroad, manages all financial aspects of the organization, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. Maddox ensures the fiscal health of the company by overseeing revenue generation from freight and passenger services, as well as land leasing operations. This role involves developing financial strategies to support operational expansion and infrastructure development. Maddox's expertise is critical in optimizing resource allocation and managing financial risks associated with large-scale transportation and land management enterprises. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to capital investments and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations. Michelle Maddox's financial acumen is integral to Alaska Railroad's sustained profitability and strategic growth initiatives.

    Douglas Engebretson - Chief Operating Officer

    Douglas Engebretson, the Chief Operating Officer at Alaska Railroad, directs the day-to-day operational activities across the company's extensive network. Engebretson oversees the efficient execution of both freight and passenger transportation services, ensuring safety, reliability, and punctuality. This leadership position involves managing the complex logistics of rail operations, including track maintenance, rolling stock management, and service delivery. Engebretson's responsibilities also encompass optimizing operational workflows to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. The Chief Operating Officer plays a key part in coordinating with other departments to ensure seamless service integration and effective land asset utilization. Douglas Engebretson's operational leadership is fundamental to Alaska Railroad's ability to meet service demands and maintain its infrastructure.

    Matthew Glynn - Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Matthew Glynn, the Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Alaska Railroad, contributes significantly to the operational management and strategic execution of the company's services. Glynn focuses on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of freight and passenger transportation systems, ensuring they meet high standards of performance and safety. This role involves detailed oversight of operational processes, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing best practices across the rail network. Glynn's contributions are vital in coordinating complex logistical challenges inherent in long-distance rail operations. The Vice President & Chief Operating Officer also supports initiatives related to land asset management, ensuring operational alignment with broader corporate objectives. Matthew Glynn's operational expertise drives continuous improvement within Alaska Railroad.

    Becca Rosal - President

    Becca Rosal, the President at Alaska Railroad, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the company's diverse operations. Rosal oversees the critical functions of freight and passenger transportation, ensuring the efficient and reliable movement of goods and people across the state. This leadership role involves guiding the company's approach to land asset management and leasing, maximizing the value of these holdings. Rosal is committed to enhancing the railroad's service offerings and its contribution to Alaska's economic development. The President's responsibilities include fostering strong relationships with stakeholders and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Alaska Railroad's operations. Becca Rosal's vision is instrumental in navigating the evolving landscape of transportation and resource management.

    Clark Hopp - Chief Operations Officer

    Clark Hopp, the Chief Operations Officer at Alaska Railroad, leads the strategic direction and execution of all operational facets of the company. Hopp is responsible for optimizing the performance of both freight and passenger transportation services, ensuring seamless connectivity and timely delivery across vast distances. This executive's purview includes the meticulous management of rail infrastructure, safety protocols, and resource allocation to maintain operational integrity. Hopp drives initiatives aimed at enhancing service reliability and customer satisfaction through efficient operational planning. The Chief Operations Officer also plays a crucial role in the strategic oversight of land acreage management, ensuring operational synergy with leasing and development activities. Clark Hopp's leadership ensures Alaska Railroad's operational excellence and its continued contribution to regional commerce.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Alaska Railroad Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Alaska Railroad?
    Alaska Railroad is led by Christopher Aadnesen (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as William O'Leary (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Michelle Maddox (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Alaska Railroad’s executive team?
    The executive team of Alaska Railroad includes leaders such as Christopher Aadnesen (President & Chief Executive Officer), William O'Leary (President & Chief Executive Officer), Michelle Maddox (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Alaska Railroad have?
    Alaska Railroad has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Alaska Railroad’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Alaska Railroad includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Vice President & Chief Operating Officer.