Celebrating Excellence in Rail!

 

Congratulations to our NARBW member Gina Drinkwater who was recognized at the October 2025 Railway Age/RT&S Conference for her honorable mention in their Railway Age Women in Rail feature!

 

Gina began her railroad career as a Journeyman Car Inspector and rose through the ranks to Mechanical Foreman, General Foreman and her current role as is the Mechanical Shop Superintendent at Metra's Kensington Yard.

 

As shop superintendent, Gina, oversees the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of Metra's rolling stock. With a career that began as a Journeyman Car Inspector, Gina has risen through the ranks, demonstrating exceptional leadership and technical expertise. In her role, Gina manages a team of skilled mechanics and technicians, ensuring that repairs are carried out efficiently and effectively. She coordinates repair schedules to minimize downtime, maintains high safety and performance standards, and ensures compliance with crucial safety regulations. Gina's commitment to training and guiding her team has fostered a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. Gina was also recognized in Metra’s 2023 Women Hall of fame for being the first woman shop superintendent and foreman. 

 

In addition to career achievements, Gina has a passion for giving back to the community. She participates in many initiatives from food and clothing drives to her annual Arthur Burgess Jr. Trunk Drive charity, an organization that Gina founded. Each year she organizes the collection of hundreds of dorm room supplies to fill dozens of trunks for students going away to college. 

 

We are proud to have such an accomplished and dedicated leader among our members. Congratulations, Gina, on this well-deserved recognition!