WASHINGTON — Federal Railroad Administrator Allan Rutter announced the appointment of Robert L. Gould as Associate Administrator for Public Affairs.
“Rob brings with him a wealth of communications and public affairs expertise which he gained in both the private and public sectors,” said Administrator Rutter. “In addition, Rob’s broad knowledge of transportation issues, and in particular his rail industry experience will play a critical role as we move forward with our efforts to enhance the safety and efficiency of America’s rail network.”
Gould will be responsible for directing communications and public affairs activities at the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), an agency of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Gould joins the FRA after a 10-year career with CSX Corporation where he served in a variety of communications roles at the corporate level as well as two of the company’s rail-related business units, CSX Transportation, Inc. and CSX Intermodal Inc. He most recently held the position of assistant vice president of public affairs in Washington, where he directed the corporation’s external communications and grassroots efforts in support of the company’s public policy initiatives.
Prior to joining CSX, Gould directed the offices of public affairs for both the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the Maryland Emergency Management Agency.
Gould, a native of Pikesville, Md., earned a bachelor’s degree from Towson State University and a master’s degree from John Hopkins University. A graduate of both the U.S. Air Force Air Command and Staff College and U.S. Army Combined Arms and Services Staff School, Gould also serves as the public affairs officer for the Maryland Air National Guard where he holds the rank of lieutenant colonel. He also serves on the board of directors of the B&O Railroad Museum in Baltimore and is an active member of the Pikesville Volunteer Fire Company.
Gould resides in Elkridge, Md., with his wife and two children.