Senior vice president law and general counsel,
American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association
Website
Rail Experience: Yurasko has an extensive railroad career, including roles in the law departments of the Federal Railroad Administration, the Association of American Railroads and Amtrak's high-speed rail division. Presently, she is general counsel and SVP law for the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association, and one of the foremost practitioners of railroad safety and regulatory law in the United States.
Mentorship Role: Yurasko's commitment to developing others has strengthened the rail industry and opened doors for countless professionals. One of her most significant contributions to the industry was her instrumental role in establishing the League of Railway Women's formal mentorship program.
During her presidency at the LRW, members expressed that mentorship — alongside networking and education — was one of the most valuable benefits they sought. Recognizing that a poorly executed mentorship program could undermine its purpose, Yurasko insisted on a thoughtful, sustainable and impactful structure. She tasked LRW leadership with identifying a mentorship software platform that could serve the organization's needs. Through her guidance, LRW found a vendor capable of building a customized solution appropriate for the rail industry and for LRW's diverse membership. When the platform launched, participation was so strong that the LRW had to expand its subscription to meet demand. This success is a direct result of Yurasko's vision, leadership and unwavering belief that mentorship must be both accessible and meaningful. Today, the mentorship program stands as one of LRW's most valued benefits.