Overview
Rail is a critical driver of Tennessee’s economy, freight mobility, and workforce development. This Rail Workforce Needs Assessment highlights the importance of Tennessee’s rail network, the growing demand for skilled rail professionals, and the opportunity to strengthen talent pipelines through coordinated education, training, and industry partnerships.
Why Rail Matters to Tennessee
- 43% freight growth expected in TN by 2050.
- 27 freight railroads operate across Tennessee.
- Tennessee’s rail network includes more than 2,643 miles of track.
- Over 3,600 rail workers participating in federal programs statewide, but economic impact is far more significant: 34,600 direct jobs, 79,400 indirect/induced.
- Memphis is emerging as one of the nation’s leading multimodal freight and rail hubs.
- Rail supports Tennessee’s automotive, manufacturing, distribution, and logistics industries
Rail Operations and Emerging Trends
- The rail Industry in Tennessee is experiencing an aging workforce
- Skills shortages (technical, engineering)
- Strong competition (logistics, manufacturing industries)
- Limited rail-specific training and education opportunities
Tennessee Rail Workforce Needs Assessment
Tennessee Multisector Working Group
Project strategies and implementation will be guided by a Multisector Working Group. The working group is made up of industry, labor, education, and workforce representatives from across the state and region. They will assist the team in identifying workforce development needs, skills gaps, and training and education priorities, and will help engage educators across the K-12 and post-secondary education continuum in project activities.
Erik Anderson, Passenger Transportation, Rail, and Freight Section Manager
Tennessee Department of Transportation
Karen Claussen, Vice Chairman
Gulf & Ohio Railways
Antoine Hawkins, State and Local Affairs Manager
CN
Kate Lancaster, Senior Human Resources Business Partner
R. J. Corman
Jennie McCabe, Director of Workforce Development
Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development
Dr. Pamela McKinley, Principal
Transportation-STEM Academy at East High School
Memphis Shelby County Schools
Johnathan Michael, Senior Coordinator
Advanced Manufacturing, Construction, Supply Chain, and Transportation
Tennessee Department of Education
Deorsi Newell, Division Chairman
Transportation Communications Union Lodge 794
Brandon Phinx, Deputy State Apprenticeship Director
Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development
Jason Scott, Director, Talent Acquisition
Norfolk Southern