Britanny Westphal

Professional Summary

Company

BNSF Railway Company

Current Position

Manager Environmental Operations for BNSF facilities in Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Tennessee.

Job Duties

Manage environmental programs for 50+ facilities in multiple states (Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas). Program areas include, but are not limited to the following: storm water, wastewater, air, waste, spill prevention, and hazard communication. Program management responsibilities include federal, state and local permit acquisition, development and implementation of site-specific compliance plans, budget planning and management, field engagement and contractor oversight. Assist in environmental compliance audit program. Assist in the continued implementation of management systems to achieve territory compliance goals as part of BNSF’s strategic vision. Serve as Lead of the Environmental Training and Communication Technical Team. Member of the BNSF Responsible Care Management System Core Team. Lead Corporate Green Team of 50+ team members responsible for implementing pollution prevention programs and performing community outreach activities.

Impacts

The Environmental Department aims to safely control environmental risk.

What are you passionate about?

I enjoy leading the environmental training and communication team and participating in Green Team outreach activities. I also am passionate about sustainability and corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Describe your educational history

I earned a B.S. in Geography from Texas A&M University in 2008. I am currently working on a M.S in Sustainable Management through the University of Wisconsin- Superior.

What advise would you give to the current Aggies interested in entering environmental industry?

I would strongly advise to look for internships to gain a better understanding of what opportunities are available for this career path. Networking and any type of mentorship opportunities are also helpful in navigating this field. Also, take advantage of any BESC clubs or groups set up at the University- this will give you a chance to get some experience before starting your career.

If you were entering the environmental industry today, what area would you pursue? Why?

Two different areas of interest to me include: (1) Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) and (2) Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility. EHS is a very important job within industry and will always be of value. Also, companies are beginning to understand the importance of integrating sustainable initiatives into their business practices in order to protect natural resources, the community, and their longevity.