ClearWay Industries, a leading provider of vegetation management, is proud to announce the appointment of Forest Hendricks, Jr. to its leadership team.
In his new role, Hendricks will assume sales and operations responsibility for existing and future customer accounts within the North American rail industry, including the company’s established vegetation management services. He will also play a key role in developing ClearWay’s expanded portfolio of railroad contract services, positioning the company for long-term growth in this critical sector.
With more than four decades of experience in the railroad, heavy equipment, and vegetation management industries, Hendricks brings a proven record of success in both domestic and international markets. His extensive leadership background includes executive-level responsibility for sales, operations, compliance, safety, and customer relationship management across some of the most respected names in the industry.
A Career Built on Rail Industry Expertise
Hendricks began his railroad career in 1980 with Chessie System Railroads, which later became part of CSX Transportation. Over the course of his 16 years with CSX, he advanced through a wide range of leadership roles, including Rail and Tie Gang Supervisor, Engineer of Track Geometry Systems, Fleet Manager, and Roadmaster. During this time, he managed large crews across live track environments, directed multimillion-dollar budgets, and established safety records that remain benchmarks in the industry today.
His career trajectory continued with leadership positions at Knox Kershaw, Balfour Beatty Rail, Georgetown Rail Equipment (now Loram), and Union Pacific Railroad. Hendricks has overseen national accounts, managed contract services, and spearheaded innovative programs in equipment design, track maintenance, and vegetation management.
Most recently, he served as Manager of National Accounts at Curry Supply Company, where he was responsible for growing relationships across the North American freight rail industry, high-speed transit systems, and locomotive manufacturers. His portfolio extended to major clients such as Waste Management, the U.S. Department of Defense, and leading global construction and agricultural equipment firms. Hendricks also played a hands-on role in hybrid and full-electric locomotive retrofit projects, working alongside engineers and machine shops to develop sustainable solutions for rail clients across North America.
Earlier in his career, he held key leadership roles at Florida East Coast Railway (FEC) and as an Engineering and Compliance Director, where he was responsible for meeting DOT, FRA, and OSHA standards while overseeing complex engineering and fleet operations. He also founded his own consulting firm, offering railroad-specific advisory services to suppliers, contractors, and Class I railroads.
Leadership Beyond Operations
Known for his hands-on management style, Hendricks has consistently built strong, collaborative teams that prioritize safety, efficiency, and client satisfaction. He has successfully developed, trained, and led multiple sales and operations teams across North, Central, and South America, implementing ISO9001 standards and compliance programs while fostering sustainable growth and profitability.
Hendricks has also been an active contributor to the rail industry’s broader advancement. He previously served as Chairman of AREMA Committee 27, Subcommittee 2, which governs rail industry vehicle design and specifications, helping shape operational standards used across the sector.
His unique combination of operational knowledge, sales expertise, and executive leadership makes him exceptionally well-suited to guide ClearWay Industries’ continued expansion in the rail sector.
Driving Growth at ClearWay Industries
At ClearWay, Hendricks will oversee all rail industry accounts, ensuring operational excellence in the company’s existing vegetation management services while expanding into new contract service areas. His responsibilities will include strategic planning, sales growth, customer relationship management, and operational leadership—all with a strong emphasis on safety, compliance, and innovation.
“Forest’s track record in the rail industry speaks for itself,” said Percy Caraballo, President of ClearWay Industries. “He brings a depth of experience that is second to none, from hands-on field operations to executive-level sales and business growth. As ClearWay expands its footprint in the rail sector, Forest will be instrumental in delivering value to our current customers while positioning us for future opportunities. We are thrilled to welcome him to the ClearWay team.”
Commitment to the Rail Industry’s Future
In accepting his new position, Hendricks expressed enthusiasm for joining ClearWay at such a pivotal time in the company’s growth.
“I am honored to join ClearWay Industries and excited to contribute to the company’s vision of growth and service excellence in the rail industry,” said Hendricks. “ClearWay has built a strong reputation for safety and precision in vegetation management. My goal is to build on that foundation, strengthen relationships with our rail clients, and expand our offerings to meet the evolving needs of this industry.”
About ClearWay Industries
ClearWay Industries is a leader in vegetation management and tree clearing services, serving customers across the rail, utility, and construction industries.
Founded on values of integrity, teamwork, and safety, ClearWay Industries continues to expand its service portfolio, with a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction. Headquartered in Glenwood, NJ, the company proudly serves clients across North America. ###
To reach out to Forest:
Forest Hendricks, Jr.
DIRECTOR OF RAILROAD SALES & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
F.HENDRICKS@CLEARWAYINDUSTRIES.COM
CELL (904) 545-4852
OFFICE (973) 737-4220
PO BOX 321, GLENWOOD, NJ 07418
www.clearwayindustries.com
