Alaska Railroad Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Alaska Railroad has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, human resources, 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 infrastructure and economic activity.

Leadership Roles at Alaska Railroad

  • 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 Human Resources Officer - Jennifer Mergens
  • Chief Operations Officer - Clark Hopp
  • William O'Leary - President & Chief Executive Officer

    William O'Leary, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Alaska Railroad, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the company. O'Leary guides all facets of the railroad's freight and passenger transportation services, ensuring efficient and reliable delivery across its network. This leadership role involves fostering key relationships with stakeholders, including government agencies and community leaders, to advance the railroad's mission. By setting corporate objectives and overseeing major initiatives, William O'Leary drives the company's growth and its commitment to serving Alaska's unique transportation needs. The executive's focus extends to land management and leasing operations, maximizing asset value and supporting regional development. O'Leary's strategic direction ensures the Alaska Railroad remains a critical component of the state's infrastructure, facilitating commerce and connecting communities.
    William O'Leary

    Michelle Maddox - Chief Financial Officer

    Michelle Maddox, the Chief Financial Officer at Alaska Railroad, manages all financial planning, reporting, and fiscal management for the organization. Maddox oversees budgeting, forecasting, and capital allocation, ensuring the financial health and sustainability of the railroad's operations. This critical role involves managing investments, securing funding for infrastructure projects, and optimizing financial performance across freight, passenger, and land leasing divisions. By implementing robust financial controls and strategies, Michelle Maddox supports the company's long-term objectives and its ability to navigate market fluctuations. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to risk management and compliance, safeguarding the railroad's assets and ensuring adherence to regulatory standards. Maddox's financial acumen is essential for driving operational efficiency and supporting the Alaska Railroad's vital role in the state's economy.
    Michelle Maddox

    Douglas Engebretson - Chief Operating Officer

    Douglas Engebretson, the Chief Operating Officer at Alaska Railroad, directs the day-to-day operational activities and service delivery across the company's extensive network. Engebretson oversees the efficient management of freight logistics, passenger services, and track maintenance, ensuring seamless transportation solutions for customers. This leadership position involves optimizing resource allocation, enhancing operational safety, and implementing best practices to improve service reliability. By coordinating various departments, including transportation, engineering, and mechanical services, Douglas Engebretson drives operational excellence. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include managing the performance of the railroad's fleet and infrastructure, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and supporting strategic initiatives for service expansion. Engebretson's operational leadership is fundamental to the Alaska Railroad's mission of connecting communities and supporting commerce.

    Matthew Glynn - Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Matthew Glynn, the Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Alaska Railroad, shares responsibility for overseeing the company's extensive operational functions and service delivery. Glynn focuses on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of freight and passenger transportation, ensuring seamless movement of goods and people across the state. This role involves collaborating with other operational leaders to implement strategic improvements in logistics, scheduling, and resource management. By driving initiatives aimed at operational excellence, Matthew Glynn supports the railroad's commitment to reliability and customer satisfaction. The Vice President & Chief Operating Officer's purview includes managing key operational assets and ensuring adherence to stringent safety protocols. Glynn's contribution is vital to maintaining the Alaska Railroad's critical role in supporting Alaska's economy and infrastructure.

    Becca Rosal - President

    Becca Rosal, the President at Alaska Railroad, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the company's diverse operations. Rosal guides the overall business strategy, focusing on enhancing freight and passenger services while overseeing land management activities. This role involves fostering strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government entities, business partners, and community representatives, to advance the railroad's objectives. By setting the organizational vision and priorities, Becca Rosal ensures the Alaska Railroad effectively serves its customers and contributes to the state's economic development. The President's leadership encompasses driving innovation, ensuring operational efficiency, and maintaining the company's commitment to safety and reliability. Rosal's strategic oversight is essential for the continued success and growth of the Alaska Railroad.

    Jennifer Mergens - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Jennifer Mergens, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Alaska Railroad, leads all human capital management strategies and initiatives for the organization. Mergens oversees talent acquisition, employee development, compensation and benefits, and labor relations, fostering a productive and engaged workforce. This executive role is crucial for attracting and retaining skilled personnel essential for operating complex transportation systems. By developing and implementing HR policies, Jennifer Mergens ensures compliance with labor laws and promotes a positive organizational culture. The Chief Human Resources Officer's strategic focus includes workforce planning, succession management, and enhancing employee well-being to support the railroad's operational demands. Mergens' leadership in human resources is vital for maintaining the Alaska Railroad's operational capacity and its commitment to its employees.

    Clark Hopp - Chief Operations Officer

    Clark Hopp, the Chief Operations Officer at Alaska Railroad, directs critical aspects of the company's operational strategy and execution, focusing on optimizing service delivery and infrastructure management. Hopp oversees the maintenance and development of the railroad's physical assets, including tracks, bridges, and rolling stock, ensuring safe and efficient operations. This leadership position involves implementing advanced technologies and methodologies to enhance operational performance and reduce downtime. By coordinating engineering, maintenance, and transportation departments, Clark Hopp drives efficiency across the network. The Chief Operations Officer's responsibilities extend to managing capital projects and ensuring the long-term viability of the railroad's infrastructure. Hopp's operational expertise is fundamental to the Alaska Railroad's ability to provide reliable transportation services.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Alaska Railroad Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Alaska Railroad?
    Alaska Railroad is led by William O'Leary (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Michelle Maddox (Chief Financial Officer) and Douglas Engebretson (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Alaska Railroad’s executive team?
    The executive team of Alaska Railroad includes leaders such as William O'Leary (President & Chief Executive Officer), Michelle Maddox (Chief Financial Officer), Douglas Engebretson (Chief Operating 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, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, President.