FRA Administrator Amit Bose Honored as He Steps Down

A Transformative Leader for Railroad Workers

Washington, D.C. – As Amit Bose formally steps down from his role as Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), the SMART Transportation Division (SMART-TD) takes a moment to express its profound gratitude for his leadership and the lasting impact he’s had on railroaders across the country.

Since taking the throttle of the FRA in 2021, Bose has been a champion for the hard-working men and women of the rail industry. His tenure marked a transformative shift in the way the FRA interacts with rail labor, treating our members not only as workers, but as experts in our field. He has consistently gone beyond simply listening to the needs of SMART-TD and its members. He has consulted with us, seeking our input on policies that affect the future of the American rail industry.

“Under Amit’s leadership, the FRA became a true partner to railroaders,” said SMART-TD President Jeremy Ferguson. “He didn’t just hear us; he understood us. From advocating for the two-person crew rule becoming a federal mandate to ensuring the majority of our members now have paid sick leave, his legacy is one of listening, learning, and taking action. His respect for our members as professionals has truly been revolutionary.”

Key Changes in FRA’s Perspective

Bose’s efforts extended beyond the public eye. His time at the FRA saw major milestones that benefit both railroaders and the public at large. Notably, his leadership ensured that the Association of American Railroads (AAR) could no longer use the FRA as a rubber stamp for any request for exemptions that would undermine the quality of life for rail workers or risk the safety of this nation’s communities. Under his watch, the C3RS (Confidential Close Call Reporting System) was expanded to include major railroads like Norfolk Southern and BNSF, marking a significant shift in the approach to safety within the industry.

In perhaps one of his most significant achievements, Bose oversaw the transfer of control of the Pueblo, Colorado, rail research center – often called the “Area 51 of railroading” – away from the AAR. The center, once a hub for research that served corporate interests, is now under the control of an independent third party, ensuring that its research benefits the advancement of the entire industry, with a clear focus on safety for both workers and the public.

“Amit has been a voice for the voiceless,” said Greg Hynes, National Director of SMART TD’s Safety and Legislative Department. “He didn’t just push through initiatives; he took the time to understand the concerns of those of us who work the tracks every day. His leadership created a better, safer environment for railroad workers and, in turn, improved the quality of rail service for the American public.”

A Legacy of Dedication to Rail Workers

The deep respect and commitment Bose showed for SMART TD’s members went beyond policy changes. He regularly sought input from the union’s leadership, including President Ferguson, National Safety and Legislative leaders Hynes and Jared Cassity, and others. He wasn’t just interested in top-level discussions; he made a genuine effort to understand what was happening at the ballast level – the day-to-day realities that frontline workers face.

“Amit’s approach was unique in that he always made sure to meet our members exactly where they were, not just in Washington, but in the rail yards, too,” said Jared Cassity, Deputy National Safety and Legislative Director. “He was a leader who knew that the best way to improve the system was by lacing up his boots, hitting the ballast, and listening to those who work in it every day.”

Cassity went on to say, “In an era of political figures who focus on headlines and photo ops, Bose’s leadership was a reminder that true public service is about humility, dedication, and a commitment to serving the people. Amit Bose never lost sight of who he was working for, the workers who make the American economy run.”

“Under his leadership, the FRA didn’t just serve the railroads,” President Ferguson added. “It served railroaders. And for that, we will always be grateful.”

The Department of Transportation held a press conference today to thank Bose for his job well done. Fittingly, the press conference was held in the same room where less than a year ago, Bose stood shoulder to shoulder with Brothers Ferguson, Cassity, and Hynes to announce the finalization of his administration’s 2-Person freight rail crew rule. The significance of the setting wasn’t lost on SMART-TD’s leadership. 

As Amit Bose moves on from his position as FRA Administrator, SMART-TD extends its sincerest thanks to him and his staff for their outstanding service and the improvements they brought to the rail industry. Amit’s legacy will undoubtedly serve as a model for future FRA Administrators, one who understood that the government’s true role is to serve the public, especially those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the wheels of America turning.

“We were lucky that our rail members were a large part of the public that Amit chose to serve,” said Ferguson. “And we hope his example will inspire future FRA leadership to continue to work for the betterment of those who make this industry what it is.”