Our Team
Hugh McConville - President
Hugh McConville is President of Positive Traction US, leading efforts to bring advanced battery-powered locomotive technology to North America. A co-owner of Railroad Contract Services, he has decades of experience in short line operations, compliance, and start-ups. Former Superintendent of Iowa Pacific Holding’s Network Operations Center and past president of the North American Railroads Operating Rules Committee, Hugh combines deep regulatory expertise with a commitment to sustainable, efficient rail solutions.
Mike McConville - CEO
Mike McConville, CEO, is a career railroader with extensive experience across Class I, regional, and short line railroads. His background spans mechanical, field operations, and executive leadership roles, giving him a comprehensive perspective on rail operations. Mike has worked in both the U.S. and U.K., bringing international insight to rail strategy, safety, and efficiency. His proven leadership and operational expertise support Positive Traction US in advancing sustainable, next-generation locomotive solutions..
Michael Sussman - Executive Chairman
Michael is the President of the company he founded in 1995, where he leads the application of collaborative principles to finance the most challenging situations, creating funding breakthroughs for clients that involve multiple lenders and government entities. Michael established OnTrackNorthAmerica, a nonprofit organization that promotes collaboration among the North American rail industry, government agencies, companies, regions, and stakeholder groups.
Mark H. Westerfield - VP of Sales & Marketing
Mark H. Westerfield, VP of Sales & Marketing, began his railroad career as a switchman on The Milwaukee Road while in university, later serving as yardmaster and trainmaster before advancing to Director of Operations Planning/Energy Conservation. Following the Soo Line takeover, he held executive roles with short line holding companies worldwide and also worked with Union Pacific and Amtrak. Most recently, he spent a decade with Iowa Pacific Holdings in the U.S., U.K., and South America, retiring as AVP, Operations.
Samuel Peterson - Controller
Samuel Peterson has been with Positive Traction U.S. since its inception, overseeing the organization’s financial planning and management. After earning a degree in Applied Mathematics from the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater, he began his transportation career in 2013 with Iowa Pacific Holdings. Rising through the ranks, Sam later co-founded Railroad Contract Services in 2020. He brings strong leadership in staff training, customer relations, and strategic budgeting, playing a vital role in the company's continued growth.
