Richard (Chip) B. Stranahan

As Senior Staff Consultant with the Railroad Practice Group of Engineering Systems Inc. (ESi), Mr. Stranahan is responsible for train operations assessments and railroad accident investigation analyses.

Mr. Stranahan’s expertise includes train derailment and crossing accident investigations, evaluation of train handling issues, injury claims, computer simulation modeling, testing, instrumentation, and data analysis.  Additionally, he utilizes computer simulation programs for calculating train braking capabilities, fuel consumption, running time evaluations, and tonnage rating studies.  His on-site field projects have often involved accident investigation and railcar and trackside instrumentation, testing, and data acquisition.  Additional duties have included report preparation and review, cost estimation/proposal development, and marketing.

Prior to joining ESi, Mr. Stranahan managed the physical testing laboratory for a major engineering firm in Atlanta, Georgia, which tested products and materials primarily utilizing destructive testing techniques.  Responsibilities included the daily management of projects and personnel within the laboratory, the custom design of unique or specialized testing programs, products and materials testing, quality assurance, market forecasting, and business development. Additional responsibilities encompassed the preparation of training and procedures manuals, personnel training, and equipment calibration and purchasing.