The CSR team is pleased to announce John F. Betak, Ph.D. as the newest member of its Board of Directors. Rounding out the qualifications of the other CSR board members, Dr. Betak brings an unparalleled level of experience in the field of transportation and technology research.
Dr. Betak is a senior consultant with 40+ years of diversified, international experience in management, consulting, administration and research in corporations, non-profits and major North American universities. John was an AVP at Consolidated Rail Corporation (Conrail) where he developed/managed the corporate industrial development, plant rationalization and line sales, short line marketing, non-hazardous solid waste business group, real estate portfolio and Geographic Information System prior to his retirement in 1995.
John was part of the team that developed the plan that led to the restructuring of Conrail and its return to profitability. Key elements of that plan led to the passage of NERSA and a fundamental shift in the rail industry's ability to restructure their operations. It also led to the development of the modern short line and regional railroad industry.
In addition to extensive industry leadership, Dr. Betak has been involved heavily in railroad and industry risk resaerch at the University of Texas at Austin and at the Center for Advanced Infrastructure and Transportation at Rutgers University. His insight into issues relating to all facets of the railroad and energy industries will be of specific importance as research in these fields continue to develop.