Tracy Robinson

Tracy Robinson, the President and CEO of Canadian National Railway (CN), exemplifies resilience and strategic leadership with a deep commitment to creating lasting change. Her journey to the top of one of North America’s largest railways is marked professional achievements and a dedication to community service and empowering the next generation. From her early days on a farm in rural Saskatchewan to leading a North American public company, Tracy’s life reflects values of hard work, creativity, and service to others.

Growing up on a farm in Saskatchewan, Tracy’s childhood was filled with responsibility from an early age. As one of six siblings, she was immersed in the routine of life on the farm, and they were all integral to the farm’s operation. Life on the farm was physically demanding, and mornings began with tasks like fetching drinking water from a well several hundred yards away and feeding the cattle.

“They were simply seeking a better life,” Amar says. Penniless and with a significant language barrier, they moved to Vancouver Island and built that life from the ground up. His grandfather got a job as a logger, which became the family’s introduction to the forest products industry. They had five children after arrival.

"We didn’t have much, but we didn’t know that at the time because what we lacked in material wealth, we made up for in grit and the sense of accomplishment that comes from hard work. It’s those early lessons that shaped me—knowing that success doesn’t come from comfort, but from persistence and community."

The farm was where Tracy learned the values that would guide her career: a relentless work ethic, creative problem-solving, and the importance of family. "When you’re doing difficult things together, it binds you in ways that last a lifetime. That sense of shared struggle and support is something I carry with me, not just in my personal life, but also in my leadership—building teams that can weather any storm by standing together," she said, noting that her family faced their share of tragedy, which only strengthened their bond.

CAREER

Tracy’s path after leaving the farm was initially uncertain. She enrolled in university intending to become a teacher, inspired by the educators who had influenced her life. However, when job prospects in education were scarce, she pivoted to business school, driven by the practical need to find stable employment after graduation. Her first job was as a sales representative for a railway company, a position that taught her the fundamental skills of relationship-building and problem-solving.

Tracy quickly made her mark in the industry. After joining Canadian Pacific Railway (CP), she took on significant challenges, including pioneering the transportation of crude oil by rail. Her leadership was characterized by a willingness to embrace complex problems and deliver innovative solutions.

In her role as CEO at CN, Tracy oversees a vast network that connects industries and communities across North America, playing a crucial role in powering the economy.

Her leadership style is grounded in integrity, curiosity, and a focus on creating value for CN’s stakeholders – whether they are employees, customers, or the communities they serve. Under her leadership, CN has embraced technological innovation and operational excellence, with a particular emphasis on safety and customer service. Tracy is known for her ability to foster collaboration across teams and departments, creating an environment where people are encouraged to think critically and approach problems with creativity.

"I like to surround myself with high-integrity, high-energy people who bring optimism to the table and have the courage to step into difficult challenges, not away from them. It’s in those tough moments that innovation happens and where real growth occurs, both personally and professionally. I believe that if you approach every obstacle with an open mind, curiosity, and the right people, you can find creative solutions to even the most daunting problems."

Through her work at CN and her involvement with organizations like the Horatio Alger Association of Canada, Tracy is dedicated to helping the next generation develop the resilience, courage, and work ethic needed to navigate life’s challenges.

WHAT I’VE LEARNED

As Tracy reflects on her career, her definition of success has evolved. Early in her career, success was about courage – stepping into uncertain situations and taking on new challenges. Over time, that courage has transformed into confidence, allowing her to approach problems with a broader perspective and a focus on long-term impact. "At this point in my life and career, it’s about having a broader impact – whether it’s in business, people, or communities.”

Whether through her leadership at CN, her involvement in community service, or her role as a mentor to young professionals, Tracy Robinson is dedicated to making a meaningful difference. Her story from a Saskatchewan farm to leading a major national corporation embodies the core mission of the Horatio Alger Association of Canada, which celebrates individuals who overcome adversity through hard work, integrity, and perseverance. Tracy’s dedication to empowering others and her passion for creating lasting, positive change make her a deserving member of the Association.