ANCHORAGE -- Patrick Gamble, a four-star general in the U.S. Air Force, has accepted the top job at the Alaska Railroad.
Gamble, 55, was named Jan. 22 as the new president and chief executive officer by the railroad's board of directors. He was head of the Air Force's Alaska Command from 1996 to 1998 and is currently serving as Commander of all Air Forces in the Pacific.
Gamble, who will make $176,000, takes over from former Gov. Bill Sheffield, who is retiring.
Board chairman Johne Binkley said Gamble has a track record of managing large budgets and work forces and has specialized in the development of safety programs and strategic plans.
"General Gamble is committed to the Alaska Railroad's vision to continually improve its safety, customer service and profitability," Binkley said in a statement.
Gamble has participated in numerous formal safety programs and has convened six formal safety board investigations.
Gamble and his wife live in Hawaii but had always hoped to return to Alaska. Gamble will take over his new duties in mid-March after his retirement from the Air Force becomes official.
