Paul Didelius – President

After finishing a degree in Mechanical Engineering at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH, Paul worked in management for Union Pacific in Chicago, IL. In 2006, Paul founded his first railroad business called Frontier Rail with a leased SD9 locomotive and a single rail switching contract in Wallula, WA. Thirteen years later, Paul owns Rainier Rail, the Columbia Rail group of short lines railroads in Eastern Washington State, and the Cincinnati Eastern Railway – just the beginning.

Robert Didelius – Vice President

• Rainier Rail co-owner and Vice President
• Senior Auditor, SEC practice, Marcum LLP, Los Angeles, CA, 2006 – 2011
• MA Accountancy, University of Southern California
• BA Economics, Northwestern University

Richard Green – General Manager

With 19 years of diverse experience in the railroad industry, Richard has excelled in nearly every facet of rail operations. His career has spanned roles including Conductor, Engineer, RCO, safety consultant, and the development of safety programs, as well as expertise in signal operations, track and bridge maintenance, and transportation management.

Now serving as General Manager, Richard leverages his extensive knowledge to oversee operations, drive growth, and ensure the success of the railroad. His almost two decades of dedication and contributions have been instrumental in fostering a culture of safety, efficiency, and innovation.

Bryan Plante – Operations Manager

Bryan joined Rainier Rail as Operations Manager in January 2024, bringing over 20 years of railroad experience to the role. He oversees the transportation team and daily rail operations, ensuring the safe and efficient movement of freight. His responsibilities include coordinating with crews, customers, maintenance teams, and partnering short line and Class I railroads to optimize operations. Bryan also manages rail and locomotive repairs, responds to service disruptions, and implements corrective actions to restore operations promptly.

Before Rainier Rail, Bryan spent two decades with Union Pacific Railroad in Portland, Oregon. As a Yardmaster, he managed rail operations across several high-traffic yards, focusing on asset management, crew assignments, and on-time performance. He also trained new Yardmasters and served as District Chairman and a board member for the WRSA for 16 years, representing Union Pacific Yardmasters in the Pacific Northwest.

Bryan’s commitment to operational efficiency and customer satisfaction drives his proactive approach. He collaborates with customers to meet their demands and adjusts train and crew schedules to enhance reliability, reduce costs, and improve service. His expertise ensures that Rainier Rail continues to deliver exceptional results across its network.

Charles Osborn – Chief Mechanical Officer

Chuck brings 31 years of locomotive mechanical experience to Rainier Rail / Columbia Rail. Starting as a laborer, Chuck completed a 3-year machinist apprenticeship, eventually working his way up into senior management roles at Union Pacific and CIT’s locomotive leasing division. In addition to directing maintenance and development of Rainier Rail / Columbia Rail’s fleet of 30 locomotives, Chuck also runs Columbia Rail’s locomotive servicing division offering locomotive repair and leasing to other railroads and industry.

James San Pedro – Track Manager

James brings over 20 years of extensive railroading experience to his role as Track Foreman at Rainier Rail, where he has been a key team member since joining the team. His primary responsibilities include ensuring his crew completes all tasks safely and effectively, maintaining clear communication with upper management about ongoing and future projects, and fostering a strong culture of safety and teamwork.

Before joining Rainier Rail, James held several roles at Union Pacific Railroad, including Track Inspector, Track Foreman, Assistant Foreman for a curve gang, Boom Truck Operator, and Machine Operator. He also spent time as a Foreman for RailWorks, further honing his leadership and technical skills.

James leads by example, sharing the knowledge he’s gained over his career to mentor his team. His emphasis on thorough job briefings, re-briefs on-site, and vigilance toward safety ensures that his crew consistently performs at the highest standards while prioritizing one another’s well-being.