The Godfather of Safety Management

After 16 years as a safety manager, Tim Lewis will retire in early June. He joined Watco as one of its first safety managers, bringing 14 years of experience from previous roles as a conductor and engineer.

Over the years, his role as a safety manager expanded from leading certification trainings to working in the field, ensuring team members were safe on-site. He also helped launch safety programs at new locations, which helped shape the program into what it is today. 

Vice President of Safety Brad Walker has worked alongside Lewis since his first day. He said: “Tim’s one of those guys you can put anywhere, and he’ll get along with everyone. He was always willing to do whatever you needed him to do, and you knew his teams were getting what they needed. We’ll truly miss him.” 

Lewis’ impact is reflected not only in his work, but also in the friendships he built along the way from the Midwest to Louisiana. Walker also jokingly calls Lewis “The Godfather” of the safety team, a nickname that has stuck with fellow team members.

“I’ve truly appreciated the opportunity to be a part of the Watco team,” Lewis said. “Over the years, I have worked with some incredible individuals, and those friendships will continue long after retirement. To those still working — stay safe, take care of one another, and keep the wheels on the rail.”

In retirement, Lewis plans to stay close to home for a while after years of being on the go. He and his wife, Nancy, are looking forward to slowing down and relaxing together with their family. He also plans to help in the garden, ride his motorcycle, and get back to fishing.