#TTX Company #Raymond C. Burton #Railroader of the Year

Remembering Raymond C. Burton, Jr.

On June 19, 2025, the transportation industry lost a brilliant mind with the passing of Raymond C. Burton, Jr., the former President and CEO of TTX Company, at the age of 86 in New York City. Burton's remarkable track record in transforming TTX from a fledgling entity into a powerhouse within the railcar pooling industry left an indelible mark that continues to influence the company’s mission today.

A Leader with Vision

Burton, affectionately known as 'Bertie' to family and friends, helmed TTX from 1982 until his retirement in 2000. During his tenure, he was instrumental in modernizing the company, greatly enhancing its financial stability and ability to respond to the burgeoning demand for intermodal container transportation, trailers, and automotive production. His efforts in reshaping the North American railcar pool allowed TTX to operate more efficiently and flexibly to meet customer and rail owner needs.

Before joining TTX, Burton accumulated valuable experience in various financial and operational leadership roles. He worked with Santa Fe Industries and Burlington Northern Railroad, where his contributions were pivotal in raising capital for infrastructure improvements aimed at enhancing operations in the Powder River Basin of Wyoming and Montana.

Academic and Military Achievements

Born in 1939, Burton studied at Cornell University, earning a reputation as an All-Ivy track star and a leading scorer in his senior year. After his graduation in 1960, he served a year as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army, before earning his MBA from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania in 1963.

A Renaissance Man

Aside from his professional achievements, Burton was also a passionate equestrian, historian, and author. His literary contributions include