Jason Orthner

Jason Orthner serves as the Director of the Rail Division at the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), where he leads efforts to improve, expand, and modernize rail infrastructure across the state. With over two decades of experience at NCDOT, Jason has played a central role in developing and delivering passenger and freight rail initiatives, including overseeing the design and construction of capital projects, strategic planning, and partnerships with Amtrak, freight railroads, and local communities.

A licensed professional engineer and Certified Public Manager, Jason’s leadership was instrumental in the success of the Piedmont Improvement Program, one of the most ambitious rail infrastructure undertakings in the Southeast. His work focuses not only on improving mobility and safety but also on maximizing the economic and environmental benefits of rail investment throughout the region.

Jason holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from North Carolina State University. Passionate about trains since childhood, he remains committed to ensuring that rail continues to be a reliable, innovative, and accessible transportation option for communities across North Carolina and beyond.