Keynote Speakers & Panelists

Administrator Fink previously served as President of Pan Am Railways, where he modernized operations, elevated safety standards, and spearheaded technological innovation, including championing the implementation of Positive Train Control (PTC) and other advanced safety systems. His efforts contributed to measurable reductions in rail accidents and improvements in operational reliability.  

Fink holds a Master of Science in Business Administration from Pennsylvania State University and a Bachelor of Science in Transportation and Physical Distribution Management from Northeastern University. 

Fink and his wife of 40 years live in New Hampshire; they have two children and recently welcomed their first granddaughter. 

Patrick Whitehead was appointed Executive Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer in October 2025 and is based in Montreal, QC. He is responsible for developing and executing CN's operational plan and oversees the Company's Transportation, Mechanical, and Engineering departments.

Patrick is an accomplished executive with over 20 ears of railroad experience, over 25 of which have been in management positions in Transportation and Mechanical Operations in June 2022 and then Executive President and Chief Network Operating Officer in October 2023. Prior to joining CN, Patrick was Vice-President, Transportation for Norfolk Southern Railway.

Patrick holds a Master of Science degree in Transportation Management and Corporate Governance programs.