Rail supplier news from LRW, IEC Holden, Motor Coils and Dreamstar Lines

The League of Railway Women, in partnership with Progressive Railroading magazine, is is now accepting nominations for the 2025 Railway Woman of the Year award. The honor recognizes an outstanding woman in rail who exemplifies leadership, innovation and a commitment to safety and community. LRW is seeking nominees who establish a strong vision and foster continuous improvement and creativity; overcome challenges and break down barriers; support recruit and retention of women in rail; drive innovation in the industry; demonstrate excellence in their organization and community; and champion safe rail practices and cultivate a culture of safety. Nominations are due Oct. 10. The winner will be honored at the National Railroad Construction & Maintenance Association (NRC) 2026 Conference & NRC-REMSA Exhibition, held January 7–10, 2026 in Hollywood, California. To nominate someone, click here. 

IEC Holden — a manufacturer of electric motors and alternators for locomotive, transit rail, industrial, e-mobility and power generation — has acquired Motor Coils Mfg. Ltd. The acquisition adds special aftermarket expertise to IEC Holden’s existing traction motor competencies in the rail transit and locomotive space, Holden officials said in a press release. The addition creates a full-service traction motor manufacturing and overhaul offering in the transit rail and locomotive segment. Motor Coils will continue to operate under its established name while integrating with IEC Holden’s existing operations in the U.S., Mexico and Canada. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Dreamstar Lines, a firm focused on the overnight rail travel experience, has joined the Association of Innovative Passenger Rail Operators (AIPRO Rail). The organization represents rail sector stakeholders like Dreamstar that concentrate on expanding, operating and enhancing passenger rail service across the United States. Dreamstar Lines is creating "premium" overnight sleeper train service for medium-distance routes between major metro areas, with private suites and tech-first amenities, according to a company press release.