PATRICK GODDARD

PRESIDENT, BRIGHTLINE TRAINS, MIAMI

Currently serving Miami, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, and Orlando with future stops in Stuart and Cocoa, Brightline is America’s first private provider of modern intercity rail. Under his leadership, it began operations in South Florida in 2018. Brightline’s economic impact on Florida exceeds $6.4 billion. Goddard serves on the boards of the Miami Downtown Development Authority and Orlando Sports Commission.

EDUCATION: Dublin Institute of Technology (BS), Trinity College Dublin (BSC)

INSPIRING FLORIDIAN: Henry Flagler ... His dedication to innovation and his role in developing Florida’s East Coast helped shape the state’s growth and development, making him a symbol of entrepreneurship and progress. Brightline stands on his shoulders.

MOTIVATIONAL MANTRA: My mantra is a Mike Tyson quote: 'Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the face.' You can plan, but you never truly know how well it will be received.

READING: Peak, by Chip Conley. ... Chip is a hospitality expert who explores how we can achieve our potential and find fulfillment in all areas of life.