August 27, 2024 – On August 22, Congressman Buddy Carter spent a day at CSX Southover Yard in Savannah, Georgia, as part of his "Take Buddy to Work Day" initiative. This program aims to help him learn about the daily work and challenges faced by local industries in his district.
Residents had the chance to invite Congressman Carter to their workplace, and CSX Conductor Kevin Cook was a stand-out applicant. With over 20 years at the yard, Cook's experience and dedication made him a perfect host to show Carter the ins and outs of the rail industry.
During the visit, Carter didn't just watch; he got involved, learning how to throw a switch—a key task in rail operations. This hands-on approach showed his desire to really understand what the workers do every day. Cook hoped the visit would help Carter appreciate how important every employee is to the company. "Without those of us who lay the foundation, the people at the top can’t succeed," Cook noted.
One thing that really stood out to Carter was CSX’s strong focus on safety. In the rail industry, safety is crucial, and Carter was impressed with how seriously CSX takes this responsibility to protect their workers and the local communities.
Congressman Carter's visit to CSX Southover Yard was a valuable chance to see railroading in action and gain insight into a vital part of the local economy. For CSX, it provided an excellent opportunity for employees to engage with community leaders. View the video below for highlights of this visit.