Maryland Rail Leadership Change & Intermodal Awards

Industry Leaders Honored, Maryland Transportation Secretary to Depart

The Containerization & Intermodal Institute (CII) has announced its 2025 Connie Award recipient and a Lifetime Achievement Award honoree, while Maryland’s transportation sector faces a leadership transition. This article will delve into the recognition of industry leaders who have significantly shaped global shipping and logistics, and explore the implications of a key departure in the state of Maryland. Who: Peter Tirschwell, George Goldman, and Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) Secretary Paul Wiedefeld. What: Award presentations and a leadership transition. When: September 17, 2025 (awards) and August 1, 2024 (MDOT departure). Where: Marriott Downtown Long Beach, California (awards) and Maryland. Why: To recognize significant contributions to containerization and intermodalism and to enable a leadership change. How: Through the annual Connie Awards and an executive departure.

Connie Award Celebrates Intermodal Innovation

Peter Tirschwell, vice president of the Journal of Commerce at S&P Global Market Intelligence, has been selected to receive the 2025 Connie Award for Long Beach. The Connie Award, presented annually by the CII, recognizes individuals who demonstrate entrepreneurial spirit, leadership, and influence in the advancement of containerization and intermodalism. This year’s selection highlights the ongoing importance of intermodal transport in a rapidly evolving global trade landscape. The selection of Mr. Tirschwell acknowledges his dedication to fostering innovation and progress within the industry, crucial as railway and shipping companies navigate complex logistical challenges and increasing global demand. The emphasis on intermodal solutions is critical for the efficient transfer of goods between rail, ship, and road transport, ensuring a fluid and cost-effective supply chain.

Lifetime Achievement Award Honors Industry Veteran

George Goldman, a seasoned industry leader with extensive experience in executive roles at prominent shipping companies like CMA CGM and ZIM, will be presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award. This prestigious award acknowledges his decades-long contributions to the global shipping and logistics sectors. His career exemplifies the evolution of the industry, adapting to shifts in international trade, technological advancements, and evolving customer expectations. Mr. Goldman’s influence has extended beyond the confines of specific companies; his strategic vision has helped shape best practices and inform broader industry policies and standards, which are vital to railway and shipping operations. The Lifetime Achievement award also underscores the essential role of experienced leadership during uncertain times.

Maryland Transportation Leadership Transition

Maryland’s transportation sector is undergoing a significant leadership change. Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) Secretary Paul Wiedefeld is set to step down on August 1st. Deputy Secretary Samantha Biddle will assume the role of acting secretary as the state undertakes a nationwide search for a permanent successor. Wiedefeld, having served for two and a half years, cited his upcoming 70th birthday as the impetus for his decision. This transition comes at a critical time for Maryland’s infrastructure, requiring strategic planning and adaptability in order to cope with present infrastructure issues, which includes rail transit lines and projects. The incoming leadership will be expected to balance ongoing projects with long-term sustainability and technological innovation, ensuring a robust transportation system for the state.

Conclusion

The recognition of Peter Tirschwell and George Goldman by the CII underscores the ongoing importance of leadership and innovation within containerization and intermodalism. As the industry navigates global trade fluctuations, their contributions highlight the strategic vision required to overcome challenges. Meanwhile, the impending leadership transition within the Maryland Department of Transportation presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the state to reinforce its infrastructure and adapt to future demands. The industry implications of these events are far-reaching. The awards recognize the individuals who actively shape the future of intermodal transport. The MDOT leadership shift requires focus and strategic planning. Looking forward, the ability of the intermodal and transportation sectors to remain resilient and adaptive will be critical, shaping global trade and impacting regional development. Strategic alliances among railway companies and shipping corporations could be vital for the success of the next generation of infrastructure investments.

Company Summary (Optional)

CMA CGM is a major global container shipping company. ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd. is an international cargo shipping company, providing railway-intermodal solutions. S&P Global Market Intelligence is a financial information and analytics provider. The Journal of Commerce provides industry insights and news regarding containerization, intermodalism, and global trade.