Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner announced that he is stepping down from his position, effective immediately. 

“I am stepping down as CEO to ensure that Amtrak continues to enjoy the full faith and confidence of this administration,” Gardner said in a statement. “We did a lot together to make Amtrak safer, more modern, and a better travel experience for all our customers. From my start as an Amtrak intern back in the 1990s to ending as CEO, it has been my honor and privilege to lead this great American company, and I wish Amtrak every success. See you on the rails.”

Gardner’s Tenure

Gardner assumed the role as president and CEO of the railroad on Jan. 17, 2022, after the retirement of Bill Flynn.

Gardner was with Amtrak since 2009, serving in a variety of leadership roles, including chief operating and commercial officer, where he was responsible for efforts to expand state-supported service partnerships, increase Acela capacity, improve Northeast Corridor infrastructure, and develop Amtrak’s strategic plan.

Prior to Amtrak, Gardner worked as senior staff on the Commerce, Science, and Transportation’s Subcommittee on Surface Transportation & Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety, and Security. 

Previously he served as legislative assistant for Transportation for Senator Tom Carper and Congressman Bob Clement. Early in his transportation career, Gardner held various operating and managerial positions with Guilford Rail System’s Maine Central Railroad in Maine and Massachusetts, and the Buckingham Branch Railroad in Virginia.

What’s Next?

Upon Gardner’s announcement, Amtrak’s board did not have a comment on a successor, but said in a statement:

“As Stephen departs today, we thank him for his 16 years of service to Amtrak. We will build on his accomplishments and wish him every success. We look forward to working with President Trump and Secretary Duffy as we build the world-class passenger rail system this country deserves.”