Job history: Crystal began her career at Watco 10 years ago in a sales role. At the time, the sales team was preparing to implement a customer relationship management (CRM) system. She helped facilitate the CRM rollout and as of today has played a key role in the planning, design, development and implementation of multiple important software solutions.

Why she's influential in technology: Crystal is a technology and process-innovation leader whose work has transformed Watco's contract management, mapping capabilities and business systems. She played a key role in implementing OpenText to modernize contract governance and traveled extensively to gather field data that became "Crystal's Notes," the foundation of Watco's GIS program. She also led the deployment of SAP RE-FX tool, the system used to support thousands of the company's real estate contracts.

Today, Crystal directs the GIS and business solutions teams, overseeing system integration, training and mapping efforts that support more than 120 railroad and nonrailroad locations. The GIS team helped develop customer tools such as GeoConnect, a web-based resource that helps customers find Watco locations that offer rail-car storage, transloading, warehousing and properties for sale or lease.

Known for her technical expertise, analytical strength and collaborative approach, Crystal drives meaningful operational and digital improvements across the company.