Suggestions
Ross Capon
Transportation Consultant
Professional Background
Ross Capon is a highly experienced industry consultant and executive, known for his passionate and effective advocacy for passenger train and rail transit users. With a rich career spanning over 30 years, Ross has dedicated his work to championing the interests of railroad passengers, serving as the head of the National Association of Railroad Passengers (NARP), the only national organization focused solely on this mission. Under his leadership, NARP has become a beacon for advocacy in the railroad and transit industries, significantly influencing policies and discussions on Capitol Hill.
As a persuasive advocate for rail issues, Ross has developed strong relationships with key stakeholders, including politicians, industry leaders, and advocacy groups, positioning himself as a recognizable expert in the field of passenger rail. His contributions have not only shaped policies but have also fostered a greater understanding of the importance of rail transit within the larger transportation ecosystem.
Education and Achievements
Ross Capon's educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where he studied History, Economics, and Music. This diverse academic foundation has equipped him with a unique perspective on the intersection of history, finance, and culture within the transportation sector. His analytical skills, honed through the study of economics and history, have been invaluable in his consulting work, allowing him to assess the complexities surrounding the passenger rail industry thoroughly.
Throughout his career, Ross has held several significant positions. He served as the President and later as President Emeritus of the National Association of Railroad Passengers, advocating tirelessly for passenger rail users across the nation. In his earlier role as the Special Assistant for Railroad Operations at the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Office of Transportation and Construction, he brought forth initiatives that improved transportation infrastructure and policy in the state.
Ross is also involved in several important committees and advisory boards, including the Federal Railroad Administration’s Railroad Safety Advisory Committee, where he contributes his expertise to enhance safety standards within the rail industry. Additionally, he has been a longstanding member of the Transportation Research Board’s Committee on Intercity Passenger Rail Systems, providing insights and recommendations on enhancing intercity rail services in the United States.
Media Exposure and Public Engagement
Over the years, Ross Capon has garnered significant media attention for his expertise in passenger rail advocacy. For instance, he was quoted in the Washington Jewish Week and the Baltimore Jewish Times in May 2015, where he discussed the safety of rail travel in the aftermath of the Amtrak Philadelphia crash. His insights underscored the importance of rail safety and the overall resilience of the passenger rail system in maintaining service to the public.
Ross's knowledge and experience were further spotlighted during his interview on the Let's Talk Trains Show in May 2015, where he delved into the perspectives of media, Congress, and unions on the railroad industry, emphasizing the need for informed dialogue on rail matters. He was also mentioned in The Washington Post, offering critical viewpoints on congressional decisions affecting Amtrak funding, highlighting his role as a thought leader in the transportation sector.
Achievements
Ross Capon's commitment to the railroad and transit industry has led to numerous achievements throughout his esteemed career. Some of his notable contributions include:
- Leading the National Association of Railroad Passengers in advocating for the rights and needs of passenger rail users across the U.S.
- Actively participating in safety discussions as a member of the Federal Railroad Administration’s Railroad Safety Advisory Committee, promoting best practices and policies to enhance rail safety.
- Contributing to intercity passenger rail improvements through his role on the Transportation Research Board's Committee on Intercity Passenger Rail Systems.
- Offering expert commentary and insights in various media outlets, establishing himself as a trusted voice on passenger rail matters.
Ross Capon is recognized not just for his dedication to the rail industry but for his ability to connect with diverse audiences and stakeholders. His career serves as an inspiration for aspiring advocates and professionals within the transportation sector, exemplifying the critical role of advocacy in shaping public policy and improving passenger experiences in rail travel.
