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February 2023
The 2023 annual NRC conference was a huge success by all measures.
More than 1,300 participants set an NRC conference attendance record. Speakers shared invaluable information about capital plans, and industry trends and developments. Networking was evident everywhere. Contractors and suppliers left with tangible leads, connections and data to drive their business plans. What a bonus that the weather was perfect, too!
The Fireside Chat continues to be a conference highlight. This year, NRC Vice Chairman Joe Daloisio and I had a candid conversation with Michael Miller, president of North America for Genesee & Wyoming Inc. about issues facing the industry and the year ahead.
Miller’s remarks reinforced what we heard from speaker after speaker.
“The rail industry is facing some headwinds — from inflation and elevated energy prices to labor concerns, inadequate rail service and the threat of re-regulation,” he said.
But he emphasized there are a lot of needs and opportunities.
“Infrastructure is important,” Miller said. “And there’s a strong appetite for investment in infrastructure.”
That represents tremendous opportunities for contractors and suppliers.
Miller told contractors they are vital to G&W and perform about 60% of its capital work. He challenged them to work with railroads to provide better service and create greater value for shippers.
“We can do a better job of the way we go to market,” he said. “We must take a longer-term, strategic approach to work with contractors and suppliers to create more efficiencies.”
He said his single biggest area of focus is to move the industry into the 21st century. Technology is the key to “taking the customer service level up a notch,” he said.
When it comes to infrastructure, Miller emphasized embracing technology to create more information support systems that capture accurate, real-time data for plans that drive capital investment.
His technology vision for the industry over the next five to 10 years includes GPS and sensor technology on all equipment, an industry-wide commitment to customer-centric service and fully leveraging rail’s environmental advantages to drive growth.
Miller also cited the importance of creating a good company culture that attracts new employees, offers work-life balance and invests in training. He encouraged job seekers to consider working for a short line, and G&W in particular.
“You will get to see a lot of what we do, and really grow and develop,” he said. “You’ll have the opportunity to think like you are the owners of the business. The value you bring to the organization is directly related to the problems you solve.”
Thank you, Mr. Miller, and all the conference attendees, speakers, sponsors and exhibitors. You frequently tell us the information and connections gained from the conference provides a roadmap for the entire year. Please reach out and give me your feedback about this year’s conference. What did you like, what can be improved, or what can we add next year? Send your comments to me at info@nrcma.org. Members, you can access conference presentations by logging in at www.nrcma.org.
A big thank you to the NRC team for executing a sensational conference and exhibition. Our team is lean and works hard to deliver great value to members. I appreciate all their efforts in making the 2023 conference the best ever.
“Building a Safer and Stronger Railway Construction Industry Together!”
Steve Bolte, NRC chairmanThe National Railroad Construction & Maintenance Association Inc.80 M Street, S.E. Washington, D.C. 20003202-715-2920nrcma.org • info@nrcma.org
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