John retired from Norfolk Southern with over 36 years of progressive experience in Property Management, Commercial and Industrial Real Estate Appraisal and Territory.  He has a proven record of accomplishment for negotiating prices and closing sales contracts on controversial properties and is an expert in commercial/industrial property exchange and facilitating significant tax credits

Paul retired from Norfolk Southern as Regional Manager of Environmental Operations with over 42 years of experience.  Paul's  dedication to and fortitude with Environmental and Safety Compliance excellence throughout his career built many professional relationships both within the Rail industry and with a multitude of outside industry professionals.

It is with great sadness we convey that Paul passed away in May of 2019.   His knowledge and relationship building expertise has rewarded NETS with a long list of continuous Environmental Advisory Partners.  Mostly though, Paul will be missed by all who knew him for his genuine sincerity, calm demeanor and his ability to bring levity to any situation.  

Catherine comes to us with over 25 years of extensive and diversified Accounting and Financial experience.  In addition, she is an active licensed PA Real Estate salesperson & Realtor® for a worldwide brokerage firm. Representing both buyers and sellers, she understands the real estate process and the timely communications and relevant resources necessary to facilitate smooth transactions.

After working in various departments on the Railroad, our paths first crossed in the mid 1980s' in our hometown of Pittsburgh, PA.  A development department emerged which included Real estate and Environmental Quality.  The department's mission was to seek creative ideas and opportunities for advancing a more community and environmentaly sound approach to railroading.

Our work together for the next 30 years changed in many ways, however, John and I stayed committed to quality output. As we looked towards retirement and catching a bigger fish and shooting a lower handicap, we came to realize that our experiences and knowledge of the Railroad's inner workings could indeed help others to advance their goals of turning industrial properties into spaces enjoyed by families, communities and organizations.

NETS is dedicated to sharing knowledge with like minded partners, both inside and outside of the Rail Industry.

Written by Paul Zottola with sincere gratitude and respect for his friendship with John Foley.