Abstract
BNSF’s System Maintenance & Planning organization is responsible for the measurement, testing & capital planning across a network of over 28,500 mainline track miles. Over the last 25 years, BNSF’s system technology and process improvements have steadily reduced the rate of reportable rail equipment incidents, most notably track-caused derailments. In recent years, BNSF’s track maintenance and planning processes have become even more data-based with the increase in track measurement and testing platforms. Two of these most significant test platforms were developed fully within BNSF – THOR (machine-vision system) and ODIN (locomotive-based track geometry). BNSF’s System Maintenance & Planning team continues to further expand and leverage data to improve both track reliability and railroad service metrics.
Bio
Todd Kuhn is assistant VP & chief engineer, system maintenance & planning with BNSF Railway in Fort Worth, TX. Todd has served in this role since June 2024 with system-wide responsibility driving advances in track maintenance efficiency and productivity across the Engineering department. Since joining BNSF in 2006, he has held many roles of increasing responsibility within Engineering including division engineer, director of engineering services, director of engineering certification, director of engineering safety, general director of line maintenance, and general director of maintenance planning. Todd received a BS degree in civil engineering from Penn State University and is a licensed professional engineer. Todd is originally from Alexandria, VA and currently lives in Trophy Club, TX with his wife Carrie and three children.