JOHN E. FENTON

CEO, PATRIOT RAIL, JACKSONVILLE

A veteran railway executive, Fenton has served as Patriot Rail’s CEO since 2012 and has overseen an expansion that included several acquisitions to elevate it to become the nation’s third-largest shortline holding company. Patriot operates 32 regional and shortline freight railroads, scenic rail-excursion trains and two rail-related services companies with more than 1,200 total rail miles in 23 states. Prior to his current role, Fenton was CEO of Metrolink, the nation’s third-biggest heavy rail commuter rail agency, in Southern California.

EDUCATION: Indiana University (BS), University of Southern California (MS)

IF I WERE GOVERNOR: I’d develop a statewide plan for the development of inland port projects to improve the flow of freight goods through ports. An integrated, balanced approach would free up precious dock space for passenger and tourism activities.

MENTOR: Vince Lombardi has inspired me. His philosophy underscored winning, not giving up and never accepting anything less than your best.

READING: Profitable Growth is Everyone’s Business, by Ram Charan

WHAT I’VE LEARNED
“Take care of your employees and they will take care of your customers.”