Gordon Trafton Elevated to Vice-Chair of CPKC's Board of Directors

CPKC Appoints Gordon Trafton as Board's New Vice-Chair

On January 28, 2026, Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) announced a key leadership move in its ongoing board succession strategy. Gordon Trafton, an active board member since 2017, has been elevated to the position of vice-chair. Trafton's extensive background in the railroad industry spans over three decades, including significant roles in prominent organizations such as Canadian National (CN) and Illinois Central.

Mr. Trafton's career at CN reached notable heights, particularly during his tenure from 2003 to 2009, where he held the positions of Senior Vice-President, Strategic Acquisitions and Integration, as well as Senior Vice-President for the Southern Region. He also played a crucial role as the Vice President of Operations Integration prior to his retirement in 2010. Trafton's expertise is further reflected in his leadership on CPKC's Risk and Sustainability Committee, along with his contributions to the Management Resources and Compensation Committee.

In expressing his gratitude, Trafton remarked, "I am honored to be appointed as vice-chair of the board. Isabelle Courville has established a remarkable legacy of excellence as board chair. I look forward to collaborating closely with her, my fellow board members, and our talented management team to enhance the value of CPKC for our shareholders, employees, and customers."

But the changes don't stop with Trafton's appointment. The CPKC board will also welcome Marc Parent, a respected leader in the aerospace sector, as a new member. Effective January 27, 2026, Parent has previously led CAE as its President and CEO, transforming the company into a global leader in aviation training and simulation. His contributions to the industry earned him an appointment to the Order of Canada, highlighting his impact. Parent expressed enthusiasm about joining CPKC, recognizing the essential role the company plays in connecting communities and stimulating economic growth.

Additionally, Kate Stevenson has been nominated for election as a director during CPKC’s upcoming Annual General Meeting of Shareholders in April 2026. With two decades of corporate governance experience, including leadership roles in financial institutions and not-for-profits, Stevenson currently chairs the Board of Directors for CIBC. She expressed her honor at the nomination and eagerness to leverage her expertise for CPKC’s continued success.

Located in Calgary, Alberta, CPKC stands as the only single-line transnational railway uniting Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. Covering approximately 20,000 route miles, CPKC provides unmatched rail service and networking capabilities across North America, serving customers with comprehensive freight transportation solutions and logistics expertise. As the company evolves, CPKC demonstrates a commitment to optimization and value maximization for stakeholders across its vast operational landscape. For further details on the advantages of working with CPKC, visit their official website cpkcr.com.

Conclusion

CPKC's leadership transitions signal the company's readiness to adapt and grow in a dynamic industry landscape. With Gordon Trafton stepping into the vice-chair role, along with seasoned executives Marc Parent and Kate Stevenson joining the board, CPKC is poised for its next phase of success, committed to strengthening its mission and enhancing stakeholder value.