

Apr 14, 2023
The Indiana Rail Road Company’s (INRD) Austin Milton, Director, Safety & Training, has won the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association’s (ALRRA) Safety Professional of the Year Award. Nominated by President & CEO, Dewayne Swindall, Milton’s outstanding work with training and safety allowed him to stand out from his fellow nominees. Judged on criteria such as communication and motivational skills, selflessness in actions, documentable achievements as a team leader, and more, this recognition is an incredible honor. When asked to contribute to the nomination, anecdotes and examples of Milton’s knowledge, focus, and approachability were easy to come by from the INRD team.
“Austin’s passion for safety in all forms across the INRD network is evident in his interactions across departments at all levels,” says Swindall. “This recognition is very well deserved, and we are proud to have him on our team.”
Milton got his start in railroading in 2008 before joining INRD in 2011 as a train operator. He rose to Manager, Safety and Operating Practices in 2017 before being promoted to his current position earlier this year. His experiences in each of these company roles have helped Milton better assess INRD’s safety training and practices and develop solutions to improve them, both for new employees and seasoned professionals.
Milton was recognized and presented with his award at ASLRRA's Annual Conference in New Orleans, Louisiana on April 3.