Broad College of Business’ Renowned Railroad Education Program Welcomes New Director, Valerii Kucherenko

In the United States, trains transport billions of packages annually and serve as a preferred travel choice for millions of passengers. As one of the most efficient and environmentally friendly transportation options, trains play a vital role in supporting both economic and sustainable travel needs across the country. 

The railway industry is designed to be self-sufficient, so no taxpayer money is used. According to Railbookers Group, a highly awarded luxury travel company that focuses on the sustainability of transportation by train, “When compared to cars and airplanes, trains emit between 66 and 75 percent less carbon. In terms of energy consumption, use of space, and noise levels, trains are far more sustainable too”. This industry has been around since the 1800s and continues to be a major factor in the economy. The individuals and groups that lead major railroad corporations are some of the most influential business leaders in the world.  

In 2007, Michigan State University started the Railway Education Program, directed by Nicholas Little. At the time, it was one of the only programs offered in the country specifically focused on the railroad industry. Its mission was to shed light on a usually overlooked industry. The program deepens interest and knowledge in leadership, sales, engineering, and other fields within the railroad industry, cultivating a new generation of leaders dedicated to advancing and growing this essential form of transportation. 

Participants of the program are supported by industry titans, including the Federal Railway Administration who are part of the advisory board and have participated in presenting modules.  

In addition to a series of lecture-based learning opportunities, industry professionals have been invited to share valuable insights. Participants can join the Railway Management Certification Program and receive in-person experience by traveling across the US to talk with railway executives and complete hands-on learning. At the end of the program, participants earn a certification of completion.  

On August 1, 2024, Broad College of Business welcomed Valerii Kucherenko as the new director of the railway education program.  Kucherenko brings years of experience in the railroad industry and supply chain management. Previously, he was employed at Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railway, where he worked as the pricing and marketing manager. While there, the company went through a merger, taking over Kansas City Southern Railway.  

“When Canadian Pacific acquired Kansas City Southern Railway…it was a pivotal historical change for Canadian Pacific and Kansas City… It was actually an amazing experience in itself because when you see the transformation of 1-2 different organizations into one, it is a lifetime experience that I recommend everyone to have.” says Kucherenko. 

Kucherenko immigrated from Russia to Canada nine years ago and continues to live with his family there while working in East Lansing. He says he doesn’t mind the commute because one of the reasons he accepted the job was because of MSU’s campus.  

“The Michigan State University campus is one of those that you can see in Hollywood movies when they try to showcase a true American university…that was probably part of the reason that I got sold on the position,” – Kucherenko. 

He intends to bring more awareness to the program, not only to students at MSU but throughout the entire industry. The Railway Managment Certification Program is a great opportunity for someone pursuing any major and can lead to many possibilities. He is excited to begin his search for participants who are aspiring to be leaders and who want to grow as an individual and always continue learning.   

“We’ll look at the railway industry from a perspective of leadership… How do you make sure that you look at the railroad from different aspects of leadership and management, and that’s what makes us unique,” says Kucherenko. 

Overall, he wants to see a shift in excitement for the industry. For participants, he sees a future where the program is more individualized, not a “one size fits all” class layout. It will go more in-depth about the different functions and roles within the industry in business, engineering, leadership and more. Kucherenko hopes to expand on Nicholas Little’s legacy by having the program get the recognition it deserves.  

For more information follow Broad College’s Center for Railway Research and Education on LinkedIn  and visit their website.