Rob was a dedicated leader, a passionate advocate for the rail supply industry, and a cherished colleague and friend. As Vice President, North American Commercial at Amsted Rail, Rob brought deep expertise, strategic insight, and unwavering commitment to every role he held. His leadership on the RSI board was marked by integrity, collaboration, and a vision for a stronger, more connected industry. 

“We are heartbroken by Rob’s passing,” said Greg Dalpe, RSI Vice Chair. “Rob was not only a respected leader but also a kind and thoughtful person who brought people together. His legacy will live on in the many lives he touched and the progress he helped drive within our industry.” 

Jim Riley, President of RSI, added, “Rob’s contributions to RSI and the broader rail community were immeasurable. He led with humility and purpose, always putting people first. We extend our deepest condolences to his wife Kristin, and sons Cam, Sully, and Brody. Rob will be deeply missed, and we are committed to honoring his memory in the work we continue to do.” 

Details regarding memorial services will be shared as they become available. In the meantime, we encourage all who knew Rob to reflect on his remarkable life and the lasting impact he made. 

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Key provisions of H.R. 1 include:

• Permanent restoration of an interest deductibility standard that supports growth
• Full expensing for capital equipment purchases
• Immediate expensing for research and development costs

Their permanent restoration will encourage innovation, drive investment, and create new jobs nationwide. 

“The passage of H.R. 1 represents a significant commitment to American manufacturing, and specifically offers vital support to the railway supply industry,” said Railway Supply Institute President Jim Riley. “In an increasingly competitive global economy, this bill provides our manufacturers–from the smallest workshops to the largest enterprises that build and maintain our nation’s rail system–with tax tools that can help them innovate, expand, and compete. It is a signal that Congress is dedicated to fostering a strong manufacturing sector that includes the critical components of our rail infrastructure.”

The post Newly Passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act Supports American Manufacturing and Economic Growth for the Rail Sector appeared first on RSI.

In his testimony, Wabtec Corporation Executive Vice President and CTO Eric Gebhardt emphasized how advanced technologies developed by Wabtec and RSI members are transforming rail safety, efficiency, and sustainability. “Wabtec’s and other RSI members’ commitment to research and development ensures that the rail industry continues to evolve to meet the needs of modern transportation,” Gebhardt said. He added, “Continued progress requires continued partnership. Wabtec and RSI look forward to working with Congress and the Administration to ensure America’s rail network remains the safest and most efficient in the world.”  

Since January, the House Transportation & Infrastructure (T&I) Committee has conducted hearings to examine federal programs that support the freight and passenger rail industry ahead of the September 30, 2026, expiration of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). “RSI is grateful to the Subcommittee for the opportunity for an RSI member company to testify and highlight the important role our members play in strengthening the nation’s rail network,” said RSI President Jim Riley. “Wabtec Corporation embodies the innovative spirit of the rail supply industry and we’re grateful to Eric and the entire Wabtec team for serving as a strong representative for the entire industry.”

“On behalf of RSI’s Board of Directors, I’d like to thank and commend Wabtec for representing the entire rail supply industry before the House T&I Committee’s Railroads, Pipelines, & Hazardous Materials Subcommittee,” said Robert Oesch, Vice President of North American Commercial at Amsted Rail and Chair of the RSI Board of Directors. “Today’s hearing highlights RSI’s ability to bring forward real-world expertise from across our industry. RSI members’ collective expertise, and close working relationships with both public and private stakeholders allow us to play a central role in shaping policies that will define the future of rail.”

Today’s hearing occurs just under one month before RSI members are set to showcase the industry’s latest innovations at Innovation in Rail, RSI’s rail supplier technology event taking place on Capitol Hill. The annual event is designed to focus on rail technology, the regulatory environment, and the economic contributions made by the rail supply industry. Learn more and RSVP to the event here.  

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RSI anticipates an effective partnership with the data-driven, solutions-oriented chairman, as they strive towards a rail network that will ultimately help better the economy. 

“We are excited to work with Chairman Fuchs in his new role,” RSI President Patty Long said. “His thoughtful approach, expertise and dedication to the transportation sector will be invaluable as we continue to advocate for policies that support innovation, efficiency, and safety in rail transportation.” 

The post Railway Supply Institute Commends STB Chairman Designation of Patrick Fuchs appeared first on RSI.

“David Fink’s deep expertise and dedication to rail transportation will be invaluable in shaping the future of our nation’s rail system,” RSI President Patty Long said. “We look forward to collaborating with him to enhance the rail network’s safety, efficiency, and sustainability.” 

If confirmed, Fink will oversee the implementation of critical policies to modernize the U.S. rail system, support the industry’s growth, and prioritize rail safety standards. His leadership promises to strengthen public-private partnerships that drive innovation across the rail supply sector. 

The post Railway Supply Institute Congratulates David Fink on Nomination to Lead Federal Railroad Administration  appeared first on RSI.

The finalized rule implements key provisions of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, safeguarding the industry from the influx of state-subsidized rail components from countries of concern and bolstering the integrity of rail freight equipment manufacturing in North America. 

“RSI applauds the FRA for finalizing this vital regulation, which not only enhances safety and sustainability across the rail industry but also strengthens the domestic railcar manufacturing sector,” RSI President Patty Long said. “This rule underscores the commitment of Congress and the FRA to protect the U.S. rail supply chain, foster innovation, and prioritize national security.” 

The FRA’s approach reflects a balanced commitment to advancing safety and economic priorities while addressing the practical needs of railcar manufacturers. RSI remains a steadfast partner to the FRA in advancing these goals. 

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The post RSI Congratulates Chairman Graves, Looks Forward to Continued Partnership appeared first on RSI.

With advocacy experience including stints on Capitol Hill and with the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), Delaney brings a broad and dynamic perspective to the RSI team. His knowledge will bolster the organization’s efforts to foster meaningful dialogue with policymakers and advocate for policies that enhance the competitiveness and growth of the passenger rail sector. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Matthew to RSI. His passion for public policy and understanding of the key issues related to this sector will be invaluable in championing the interests of our members as we continue to expand our efforts in passenger rail,” said Marc Buncher, President and CEO of Siemens Mobility North America, who will serve as Chairman of the RSI Passenger Rail Working Group. “The RSI has been laying the groundwork for this committee with key constituents since May of 2024.  We are excited to spearhead this much needed effort for both RSI members and the broader ecosystem of passenger rail.” 

The post RSI Hires Government and Public Affairs Manager to Focus on Passenger Rail  appeared first on RSI.

Long joined RSI as the president in 2021 shortly after the association entered into a new management model as a client of Smithbucklin, based in Washington, DC. Since then, Long and the Smithbucklin team have supported RSI in expanding its staff resources, enhancing its focus on advocacy, and more effectively supporting a wide range of technical committees to deliver on its mission to proactively advance safety, innovation, technology and sustainability within the rail industry.

Under Long’s leadership, the association initiated a new passenger rail working group creating a much-need forum to address the unique challenges for rail suppliers in the transit and passenger space. As a testament to that leadership, Long was appointed in 2023 as a member of the Surface Transportation Board’s newly formed Passenger Rail Advisory Committee (PRAC).

“By all measures, RSI has thrived during Patty’s tenure as president,” said RSI Board of Directors Chair Jeff Lytle, President of CIT Rail. “RSI is positioned for great potential as a result of Patty’s leadership. While we are sorry to see her leave, we are enormously happy for her. We appreciate Patty’s dedication, leadership and commitment to RSI and look forward to working with her throughout the remainder of her time with us. ”

The RSI Board of Directors and Smithbucklin are launching a search for a permanent replacement upon Long’s retirement. During the upcoming transition, RSI is committed to sustaining RSI’s current momentum.

Long’s career of service in association management spans more than 25 years. Before joining RSI, Long served as interim CEO and Chief Operating Officer for Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS). Earlier in her career, Long worked as the Director of Communications with the National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA) and spent 18 years at the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), rising to Vice President, Policy Research and Member Communications. Patty also taught ethics for over a decade as an adjunct professor at Georgetown University’s School of Continuing Studies. 

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