OMAHA, Neb. — Doug Morrison has joined HDR as its freight technology leader.

Based in Kansas City, Missouri, Morrison will collaborate with freight rail clients and project teams to identify and implement the latest technology services. Working with HDR’s teams in data acquisition, geospatial, asset management and advanced technologies for surface transport, he will customize project solutions to help rail clients leverage the benefits of emerging technology to improve system operation and management.

“I am excited to help our clients advance technology solutions in the industry,” Morrison said. “Technology is moving so fast today that our role is to help our clients understand the impacts on their business. Having the right team to support them leads to a successful project.”

Bringing more than 25 years of experience dedicated to transportation technology, Morrison most recently managed the profit/loss center for a leading rail company, providing technology and engineering as well as field services with a staff of more than 80 employees. Prior to that, he was a national GIS manager for an engineering company in Kansas City. Early in his career, Morrison helped transition several transportation companies from Unix/Mainframe to a PC platform. 

Morrison also holds two patents for positive train control data solutions. He was responsible for the hardware and software that allowed a refabricated rail car to collect and process PTC data in real time and automatically send it back to the office for analysis. Morrison simultaneously developed the routine and process for change detection in PTC management. 

“We are excited to welcome Doug to our freight rail practice,” said Freight Rail Director Bill Hjelholt. “He will leverage his exceptional experience with freight rail technology to help our teams identify challenges and respond to opportunities posed by emerging technologies and Big Data, including digital asset management, geospatial program controls and the effects of e-commerce on the railroad supply chain.” 

Morrison earned his bachelor’s degree in geography from Northwest Missouri State University. He is currently serving as president of the American Railway Development Association.