#United States #Princeton, NJ #Val Noel #TRAC Intermodal #Maritime Hall of Fame

Val Noel's Recognition in the Maritime World

Val Noel, esteemed Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer of TRAC Intermodal, has recently been honored as the recipient of the 2025 International Maritime Hall of Fame Award. This prestigious accolade, bestowed by the Maritime Association of the Port of New York and New Jersey (MAPONY/NJ), is a testament to Val’s invaluable contributions to the maritime industry, spanning numerous years.

The official presentation of this honor will take place at the annual awards dinner scheduled for May 21, 2025, at Chelsea Piers, Pier 61 in New York City. The gala is expected to draw significant attention as it not only celebrates outstanding achievements among industry leaders but also highlights the Port of New York/New Jersey's pivotal role in the global supply chain.

Val joins an elite group of fellow honorees, including Jennifer Boykin, Ken Kellaway, James R. Lawrence, and Jeffrey F. Lawrence, all of whom have demonstrated formidable leadership in maritime operations and logistics. Daniel Walsh, President and CEO of TRAC, expressed his admiration, stating, "In my opinion, there is no one more deserving of this award than Val, given his extraordinary contributions to TRAC and our industry, as well as his deep expertise in intermodal."

Since taking the helm as EVP and COO at TRAC in 2013, Val has overseen the operational landscape of two critical business subsidiaries: Tire Services and TRAC Services. Under his leadership, TRAC Tire Services has evolved into one of North America’s largest truck tire recap facilities. Meanwhile, TRAC Services has established itself as a vital maintenance and repair hub, ensuring the seamless operation of TRAC’s intermodal network. Known as a leading provider of marine and intermodal equipment solutions, TRAC operates with a dedication to enhancing supply chain efficiencies.

Prior to his current role at TRAC, Val built a robust career at Pacer International, where he was the head of intermodal drayage operations and a senior vice president of intermodal operations. His tenure at Pacer also included serving on the board of directors for IANA (Intermodal Association of North America), where he chaired the intermodal operations committee that initiated major industry reforms. He is notably recognized for founding the Intermodal Case Competition at the University of North Florida, aimed at nurturing future transportation and logistics leaders.

Val’s experience also extends to senior leadership roles at CSX, including president of its intermodal division and general management positions across several regions in the United States. A hallmark of his career has been his commitment to mentorship and workforce development. Val has been a guiding force for many employees, shaping the careers of numerous professionals within the intermodal sector. His influence on fostering talent has established a legacy that ensures continual leadership development in the industry.

Beyond his professional commitments, Val Noel is passionate about community engagement through sports. He founded the Noel Soccer Foundation in memory of family members, which awards scholarships to student-athletes and supports underfunded soccer clubs in Jacksonville, FL, and Philadelphia. By donating soccer supplies and facilitating local high school games, the foundation reflects his dedication to fostering academic and athletic success for young individuals.

In summary, Val Noel’s recognition as the 2025 award recipient by the International Maritime Hall of Fame is not merely a personal achievement; it signifies a broad acknowledgment of his extensive contributions to the intermodal transport sector. His leadership and commitment to mentorship, combined with his community initiatives, solidify his status as an influential figure in maritime logistics.