The National Railroad Construction and Maintenance Association (NRC) has named Kennedy Railroad Services (KRS) Rail Superintendent James T. (“JT”) Shreve its NRC’s 2025 Field Employee of the Year. The NRC presented the award to JT at its annual conference in Hollywood, Florida, on January 10, 2026.

JT has more than 24 years of experience leading field operations across multiple railroad contractors. Since joining KRS in 2021 as Rail Superintendent, JT has quickly become the cornerstone of its field teams. He has a well-earned reputation for consistently delivering outstanding results while placing the highest priority on safety, quality, and client relationships. KRS President Ed Kennedy reports that JT continually goes above and beyond by mentoring crews, developing innovative solutions, and providing exceptional service to clients.

Safety and proper training for the job are non-negotiable for JT. He holds RWP, CWR,, MSHA, OSHA 10/30-hour, thermite-welding, and heavy equipment/rigging certifications. Under his leadership, KRS field teams have achieved zero lost-time incidents for the last 1080 days.

KRS employees say JT has a “can-do” attitude – no matter how difficult the challenge – that has contributed to him successfully leading and completing hundreds of track maintenance and track construction projects. He is a role model for others on the job, consistently demonstrating an extraordinary work ethic and leadership presence, day in and day out.

“Whether working through rain, snow, extreme heat, or even when he’s feeling under the weather, JT is always ready and fully committed. The most demanding and complex projects are routinely assigned to him, and he tackles each one with a positive outlook and an unwavering focus on safety,” affirms Kennedy. “Clients frequently praise JT’s exceptional attention to detail and the extra effort he invests to ensure the finished product is not only functional and to spec but truly outstanding in finished appearance and quality.”

JT’s track construction expertise and exceptional results were evident in his leadership of a 2025 project at Tradepoint Marine Terminal, which was completed within budget and with zero lost-time injuries. One of the largest projects ever tackled by KRS, JT oversaw demolishing and constructing 3,000 feet of track with 17 turnouts, as well as all project management, excavation and surfacing work. The client was pleased with the outcome and specifically commended JT for his outstanding work ethic, safety practices, and excellent communication skills.

“Over the years JT has excelled in satisfying railroad customers and performing hard railroad projects delivering quality work, consistently and safely. Working with JT is a true pleasure and KRS is proud to have such a leader leading our projects with attention to utmost detail,” said Kennedy.

About the NRC:  The NRC is a U.S. trade association that advances the mutual interests of railway contractors and suppliers who construct, maintain and supply freight railroads and rail-transit and passenger lines. Founded in 1978, the NRC connects members with other railway industry professionals and government officials and policy makers. The NRC collaborates with its members, government, and industry leaders to create a positive business climate and to make railway construction and maintenance safer and more efficient.