The Heart of Georgia Railroad Inc. board of directors has named Duane Broxterman president and chief operating officer with responsibility for railroad and other affiliated operations.

Broxterman joined HOG in 2000, as a partner in the business and has served as vice president and chief operating officer since joining the company. 

Prior to coming to the HOG, roxterman held multiple positions with RAIL-TEX and later Rail America, most recently as general manager of the Mid-Michigan group of railroads.

Before moving to RAIL-TEX, Broxterman spent 14 years with Union Pacific beginning in the Engineering department and later moving to Transportation working train service in Kansas and Nebraska.

Brad Lafevers, HOG CEO, said, “Duane is one of the best railroaders I have ever known. When starting the Heart of Georgia in 2000, I quickly recognized that I needed a partner with strong operational skills, and Duane was the first name that came to mind. Duane and I had stayed in touch since our days together at RAIL-TEX, and I had seen firsthand his knowledge and passion for doing things the right way and the safe way. Duane has been an invaluable member of the HOG team, and I look forward to working with him in his new position as president of our railroad.”

Lafevers will continue with the Heart of Georgia as its CEO and board chairman.