ASLRRA’s Award: Honoring Gary Vaughn for US Short-Line Rail Safety

Gary Vaughn wins the prestigious ASLRRA Award for his significant contributions to the short-line railway industry and safety advancements. Recognition at the 2026 conference.

ASLRRA’s Award: Honoring Gary Vaughn for US Short-Line Rail Safety
November 19, 2025 9:54 pm
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Introduction

Gary Vaughn has been selected to receive the 2026 Schlosser Distinguished Service Award from the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA). The award, named for former ASLRRA Chair Thomas Schlosser, will be presented at the ASLRRA Annual Conference and Exhibition in Minneapolis on April 14, 2026.

Award Recognition

The Schlosser Distinguished Service Award is the ASLRRA’s highest individual honor. It recognizes individuals for their long-term, significant service to the ASLRRA and the short-line industry.

Vaughn’s Career

Vaughn began his career in the short-line industry in 1996. Prior to this, he worked at Norfolk & Western Railway and Norfolk Southern Railway. He joined Watco as safety director in 2003.

Contributions to Safety

During his time at Watco, Vaughn restructured the safety department and initiated workplace safety education programs. Watco achieved numerous safety records during his tenure. Vaughn retired from Watco in 2019.

Industry Involvement

Vaughn served on the Federal Railroad Administration’s Railroad Safety Advisory Committee. He was also the first short-line industry chairman of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s General Code of Operating Rules Committee.

Conclusion

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Gary Vaughn will be presented with the 2026 Schlosser Distinguished Service Award on April 14, 2026, at the ASLRRA Annual Conference and Exhibition in Minneapolis. The award recognizes his service to the ASLRRA and the short-line industry.

Company Summary

American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA): The ASLRRA is the organization awarding the Schlosser Distinguished Service Award.

Watco: Vaughn joined Watco as safety director in 2003 and remained there until his retirement in 2019.

Norfolk & Western Railway: Vaughn worked at Norfolk & Western Railway before entering the short-line industry.

Norfolk Southern Railway: Vaughn worked at Norfolk Southern Railway before entering the short-line industry.

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