BRANDY D. CHRISTIAN

CEO, PATRIOT RAIL, JACKSONVILLE

Patriot Rail operates short line and regional freight railroads across the United States. With over 1,200 rail miles, it manages 32 short line railroads, scenic rail excursions and various rail-related services, including: freight and railcar storage, transloading, warehousing, real estate and industrial development. Employing more than 500 people across 23 states, Patriot Rail is highly active in civic engagement.

EDUCATION: University of Arizona (BA), University of Southern California (MA)

FIRST JOB: My first professional job was with KPMG as a business consultant. My tenure at KPMG was pivotal in developing the foundational skills that have significantly advanced my career.

DREAM ALTERNATE CAREER: My intention in pursuing my undergraduate and graduate degrees was a career in the foreign service, international relations and/or security intelligence. I have always had a strong curiosity and interest in foreign relations.

SOMETHING SURPRISING: I grew up in agriculture and farming. My father was a fruit farmer in Central California, following generations of his family in the agriculture business. My first job was working on our family farm. Growing up in a small agricultural community gave me a strong sense of community and appreciation for self-employment.

HOBBY: I dabbled in tennis years ago, but work and family commitments usually got in the way. Since moving to Florida, I have taken the opportunity to relearn the sport and make it a priority to grow my tennis game.

NONPROFIT PASSION: I have been proud to work with several amazing charities throughout my career, including United Way and the American Cancer Society. The American Cancer Society is especially near and dear to me as I have lost several loved ones to this horrible disease, but I also appreciate the variety of organizations supported by United Way.