Rising Star: Daniel Stout

Daniel Stout [AGE 26]

Vice President
STX Railroad Construction Services

Education: Virginia Tech, B.S. in management, with concentration in entrepreneurship and information technology

Career highlights: A railroad construction laborer in college, Stout joined STX as an estimator after graduation. He later transitioned to field operations, first as a superintendent and then as a project manager. He was promoted to vice president in 2011.

Why rail? "The Stout family's connection to the railroad construction business goes back to the 1950s, when my grandfather first started a railroad construction firm near Pittsburgh. That was the genesis of my father, D. Gary Stout, president of STX, and several other uncles and cousins embarking on careers in the railroad industry. Understanding the family history, the opportunity to continue the legacy just felt natural for me to take on the challenge and build a career in the railroad construction business."

Five-year goal: "In five years, I expect to be leading STX. ... On a personal side, I expect to have completed an M.B.A."

Making a difference in rail transportation: "I hope to be a successful representative of the next generation, ready to take the reins and move the industry forward. I bring fresh, new ideas that have been rooted in technology with the mission to merge them with traditional values already present in the industry."

Active in: National Railroad Construction and Maintenance Association, serves on the board; American Railway Engineering and Maintenance Association

His philosophy: "Have a 'whatever it takes' mentality. ... Ultimately you're the one that defines your success."

Interesting fact: Stout is a competitive bodybuilder.

Nominator's observation: "Daniel has demonstrated the tenacity, leadership and commitment to his personal development that makes him a rising star in the railroad industry. Look for him to continue to push his company and industry forward." — John Stout (cousin), Amsted RPS