Philip J. Daum, P.E.

When you are working in a high-profile industry like rail, it takes more than just deep technical know-how.  It requires the experience and industry focus to understand the day-to-day operational challenges, complex regulatory environment, and potential for catastrophic losses.

A veteran of the rail industry, Philip Daum brings firsthand experience, insights and leadership gained from decades of working for and partnering with some of North America’s leading rail companies – providing the full range of engineering services, including design, manufacturing standards, quality standards, industry association leadership, regulatory compliance and fleet management services for leased rail car fleets valued at several billion dollars. 

Now, as a Principal at ESi, Mr. Daum contributes both technical leadership and the wealth of operational insight that have helped establish him as a recognized expert in the areas of freight, passenger, and transit railroads, transportation equipment, and hazardous materials. His recent investigations include multiple high profile, large loss derailments, including the freight train derailment at Lac-Mégantic, Quebec, Canada, a hazardous material derailment at Paulsboro, New Jersey, and a large hazardous material release in the Ohio River Valley.

On the operational side, Mr. Daum has specific expertise in the design of railroad rolling stock, bogies, brake systems, cushioning systems, valves, pressure relief devices, safety equipment, and operating components.  He is also sought out for technology evaluations, intellectual property analyses, equipment qualifications, and maintenance assessments.

Whether he is being tapped to investigate a complex, large loss accident investigation or to evaluate rail equipment for reliability, durability, crashworthiness, safety, or regulatory compliance, Mr. Daum’s clients know he brings a comprehensive approach and an understanding of the industry that is second to none.

Mr. Daum has a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.