Patriot Rail Appoints Jason Bradt as COO
Patriot Rail appoints Jason Bradt as COO, succeeding Jerry Hall and overseeing operations across its US railroad network.
Jason Bradt, Chief Operating Officer at Patriot Rail.
Patriot Rail Company has appointed Jason Bradt as chief operating officer, bringing nearly three decades of railroad leadership experience to the role. Bradt will succeed Jerry Hall, who is set to retire at the end of 2026 following a career that included significant contributions to Patriot Rail. The appointment supports the company’s expansion across railroad, transload, logistics and excursion operations in the United States. Patriot Rail operates 31 short line railroads, four excursion railways and more than 1,200 miles of track across 23 states.
Leadership Transition
Hall’s retirement follows an accomplished career, during which he helped lead Patriot Rail’s railroads and operations.
Brandy Christian, President and Chief Executive Officer at Patriot Rail, said:
“Jerry's impact on Patriot Rail extends far beyond the railroads and operations he helped lead. His leadership, partnership, and dedication to our employees, customers, and communities have helped shape Patriot Rail into the company it is today. We are grateful for his many contributions and look forward to celebrating his remarkable career in the months ahead.”
Broad Railroad Experience
Selected following a comprehensive search, Bradt has held leadership roles covering safety, transportation, mechanical operations, engineering and maintenance, customer service, commercial development and strategic growth. His previous career includes roles with Genesee & Wyoming and CSX, where he built teams, improved safety performance, strengthened customer relationships and supported business expansion.
Brandy Christian, President and Chief Executive Officer at Patriot Rail, said:
“What stood out about Jason was the breadth of his experience and his commitment to people. He is a leader who understands every aspect of the railroad business. Just as importantly, he believes in developing leaders, building strong teams, and creating a culture where employees can succeed. Those values align closely with who we are at Patriot Rail and where we are headed as a company.”
Operating Priorities
As COO, Bradt will oversee operating functions across Patriot Rail’s network. His remit includes service excellence, customer relationships, leadership development and strategic growth initiatives.
Jason Bradt, Chief Operating Officer at Patriot Rail, said:
“I'm honored to join Patriot Rail at such an exciting time in the company's evolution. Patriot Rail has built a strong reputation for operational excellence, customer service, and investing in its people. I look forward to working alongside employees across the network to build on that foundation, strengthen our operations, and help create new opportunities for growth for our customers, employees, and the communities we serve.”
Investment Across The Network
The transition comes as Patriot Rail invests in its railroads, transload facilities, logistics capabilities and excursion operations, while pursuing further opportunities across its network.
Brandy Christian, President and Chief Executive Officer at Patriot Rail, said:
“Patriot Rail is well-positioned for the future. We have talented people, a clear vision, and exciting opportunities ahead. Jason's experience and leadership will help us continue building on the strong foundation already in place as we create value for our customers, employees, and communities.”
