PA: Gannett Fleming Supports Development of University-Level Rail Transportation Engineering Curriculum

Michael T. McNamara, P.E., president of Gannett Fleming Transit & Rail Systems, a division of Gannett Fleming specializing in transit and railroad track, signal, communication, and electric traction design, has been named to Penn State Altoona’s Rail Transportation Engineering (RTE) Advisory Board.

Formed in October of this year, the mission of the RTE Board is to stimulate and nurture the university’s new four-year degree program that prepares students for careers in railroad management and engineering. With the worldwide resurgence of rail transportation, the RTE program provides students with a unique multi-disciplinary experience that emphasizes the study, development, and application of new and emerging technologies impacting the rail industry. It is the first specialized railroad engineering degree program offered in the U.S. in more than 50 years.

“Gannett Fleming is proud to collaborate on the development of this landmark curriculum. This program specifically targets undergraduates who want to make railroads and rail transit their career. These specialized engineers will be needed as we plan and design the infrastructure of the future,” McNamara said.

With more than 35 years of experience, McNamara has an extensive background in the design, construction, and maintenance of railroads and transit systems. He specializes in train control, traction power, and communications systems for rail transportation.

McNamara holds a bachelor of science in electrical engineering from Drexel University and a master of science in systems engineering from the University of Pennsylvania. He is a registered professional engineer in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Ohio, Massachusetts, New York, Maryland, California, Connecticut, Oregon, Florida, and Illinois. He is a member of the American Railway Engineering & Maintenance-of-Way Association. McNamara resides in Pottstown, Pa.