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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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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