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Max Lafferty

Herzog Services, Inc. – Vice President of Rail Testing

Promoted to Vice President in 2019, Max Lafferty oversees all field operations for rail flaw detection across North America, with a focus on quality assurance, compliance, and safety standards. Max has aided our customers in the continued adoption of advanced non-destructive testing techniques, particularly ultrasonic testing, which allows for early detection of internal rail defects. Herzog Services, Inc. (HSI) plays a critical role in preventing derailments and maintaining the structural integrity of North America’s rail networks, spanning over 52,000 miles of the current network of customers. He is responsible for the strategic management of over 80 pieces of specialized ultrasonic testing equipment, serving both Class 1 and short-line customers throughout North America.

In his role, Max has driven significant improvements in operational performance and safety metrics, resulting in a marked reduction in workplace incidents and equipment downtime. His efforts have included implementing rigorous quality assurance and control practices to ensure exceptional performance and client satisfaction in rail flaw detection services. His commitment to safety is evident through the establishment of comprehensive training programs and stringent protocols, maintaining industry-leading safety standards. He has previously led the efforts to systematically revamp Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration compliance for each Herzog division and enhance the safety programs and procedures for both HSI and Herzog Railroad Services, Inc. employees.

Prior to joining Herzog in 2014, Max served as an Occupational Safety & Health Specialist at the U.S. Department of Defense for the U.S. Air Force. There, he performed selected tasks and phases of routine studies and projects that require the application of basic occupational field theory and principles in the technical area of wing safety for over 25,000+ personnel.

Max attended the University of Central Missouri where he received both a Bachelor of Science in Safety Management and a Master of Science in Occupational Safety Management, with a minor in Business Administration. In 2014, he obtained his Certified Safety Professional (CSP) certificate from the Board of Certified Safety Professionals. Max is also actively engaged in Committee 4 – Rail for the American Railway Engineering & Maintenance-of-Way Association (AREMA).

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