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Rail Industry Veteran Kloster Takes STB Seat as UP-NS Merger Review Looms

Kloster was appointed by President Donald Trump in September and confirmed by the Senate on May 18, 2026, for a term through December 31, 2028. The Northern Illinois University graduate founded and led Integrity Rail Partners for 17 years, advising on rail equipment, strategy, and acquisitions. His appointment brings Republican board membership to the statutory maximum of three, joining Chairman Patrick Fuchs and Vice Chair Michelle Schultz. Kloster's career includes two decades with the National Industrial Transportation League, plus roles at GE Rail Services and FTR and service on the Railway Supply Institute board. He holds multiple patents in railcar technology. The new board member arrives as the STB evaluates Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern's proposed merger, which would create the first all-freight transcontinental railroad.