November 4, 2024, Front Royal, VA – The Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS) is honored to announce a $9.7 million rail safety initiative in partnership with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), Hum Industrial Technology, and the Transportation Technology Center (TTC) operated by ENSCO, Inc. Funded by the Biden-Harris Administration through the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) program, this project highlights an unprecedented achievement for organized labor in securing applied rail safety research funding.
This BRS-led collaboration focuses on proactive rail safety technology to prevent derailments from wheel and bearing failures, integrating Positive Train Control (PTC) with advanced monitoring for real-time data on train health. The project also includes specialized workforce development, equipping BRS members with skills to operate and maintain advanced safety systems, aligning with the BRS mission of protecting both the industry and its workforce.
“Our members play a vital role in rail safety, and we’re proud to lead this initiative to create safer, more efficient systems,” stated Michael S. Baldwin, President of the BRS. “This partnership is a milestone not only for the BRS but for labor organizations everywhere.”
Vice President of Headquarters Quinn Norman, who is leading this project, emphasized that teamwork is essential to achieving new safety standards. National Legislative Director Mike Efaw has been crucial in developing federal support for the project, while Director of Research Chris Hand oversees safety technology integration. Grand Lodge Representative Jeremy Farr is responsible for grant administration, ensuring compliance benchmarks are consistently met throughout the project.
This collaboration sets a new standard for labor’s role in rail innovation, with BRS at the forefront of fostering a safer industry and skilled workforce. An official Partnership Agreement Signing Ceremony is planned for the coming months to underscore the shared commitment to rail safety and workforce empowerment.
