About Kyle Pattison

Kyle, at 63, continues to work 70+ hours a week, not because retirement hasn’t crossed his mind, but because he enjoys being part of a great team and making a meaningful impact. He believes that working with the right people brings joy even on challenging days. His passion for innovation and transforming the industry drives him forward. In his view, few people truly grasp how the world will evolve in the next 4 to 20+ years. The last time such a significant shift occurred, the 25th President was in office.

About Liès Ainouche

Liès brings global experience from France, Canada, and the U.S., spanning industries like Defense, Retail, Railways, and Biofuels. He specializes in supply chain optimization and training, having led projects such as the DCI Training Center and Canadian Pacific Carload Onboarding for 250+ customers. With expertise in fleet management, procurement, and contract negotiations, he has successfully trained teams worldwide and driven operational efficiency through process innovation and system implementation.

About Pattison Company

​Pattison Company, established in 1953, has a rich history of innovation across various industries, including agriculture, logistics, and mining. Among their diverse services, they offer specialized railcar storage solutions designed to optimize logistics and reduce costs. Their Empty Onsite Storage Solution (EOSS®) utilizes compact storage tracks and railcar stands that can be installed on virtually any flat ground, whether onsite or offsite, without the need for expensive switching equipment. This system allows for the storage of up to 100 railcars in spaces where conventional storage would typically be unfeasible. By implementing this innovative approach, clients can significantly minimize demurrage, detention fees, storage costs, and loading/unloading delays, thereby improving overall operational efficiency. Pattison's commitment to forward-thinking solutions is evident in their ability to anticipate industry needs and develop comprehensive systems that benefit the entire sector. ​

www.pattisoncompany.com

Keytake Aways

• Turning Crisis into Opportunity – "Never let a good crisis go to waste" – challenging times can spark innovation and drive transformative solutions.
• Innovation Through Problem-Solving – Solving internal business challenges can open doors to entirely new business opportunities.
• Simplicity Over Complexity – Not all innovations require AI or cutting-edge technology—sometimes, the most effective solutions are the simplest ones.
• A Simple & Elegant Approach – Instead of expensive traditional railcar storage, EOSS® leverages lightweight tracks and mobile loading technology to maximize unused land.
• Maximizing Cost Savings & Efficiency – EOSS® reduces demurrage fees, storage costs, and logistical delays, providing a flexible, cost-effective railcar management solution.
• Addressing U.S. Rail Challenges – Slow innovation adoption in the U.S. rail sector has created inefficiencies, pushing customers toward trucking and highlighting the need for modernization.
• Putting Customers First – Short-line railroads and smaller operators are often more innovative and customer-focused than large Class I railroads.
• Collaboration as a Catalyst – The fusion of Kyle Pattison’s deep industry expertise and Liès Ainouche’s strategic thinking led to a practical, high-impact solution.

Sebastian Sperker

sesbastian@railup.club

www.railup.club