Rail supplier news from Road & Rail Services and Alstom

Road & Rail Services LLC and its administrative arm Transportation Property Solutions Inc. announced recent executive promotions and the addition of new commercial leadership, starting with Robert Sadler, who has named CEO of both organizations. Previously serving as Road & Rail's president, Sadler has played a key role in shaping the company’s growth, strengthening its operational foundation and advancing its customer-focused strategy. Succeeding Sadler as Road & Rail's president is Joshua Massey, who has extensive operational expertise and two decades of experience with Norfolk Southern Railway. Massey will oversee day-to day operations while continuing to enhance safety, service quality and operational reliability for customers nationwide, according to a company press release. Meanwhile, Derek Carter has been named chief operating officer of Road & Rail. He has more than 22 years of experience with CN and Norfolk Southern Railway, along with 14 years at Road & Rail. He will oversee the company’s automotive and industrial services platform. Also moving up is Rick Stewart, who has been promoted to vice president of industrial operations; Rick Burkhalter, who has been promoted to VP of automotive operations; and Timothy Yetsick, who has been promoted to VP of transload operations. In addition to the executive promotions, the company hired two business development assistant VPs: Jennifer Knighton, who will focus on expanding customer relationships, identifying new market opportunities and advancing integrated service solutions; and Jace Ewing, who will focus on business development in key operating corridors.

Alstom has secured a contract valued at 1 billion euros with Comboios de Portugal (CP) to supply 153 Adessia Stream trains, supporting the renewal of Portugal’s rail fleet and the expansion of capacity on key passenger routes. The agreement represents the largest train acquisition in Portugal’s history and forms part of CP’s program to improve reliability, accessibility and service quality for rail users across the country, according to an Alstom press release. The base contract was signed in October 2025 for 117 Adessia Stream trains and expanded to include 36 additional trains. The first trains are scheduled to enter service in 2029. An accelerated delivery plan has been agreed on to respond to growing passenger demand and the need to modernize existing rolling stock. A new fleet of 98 of the commuter trains will strengthen suburban connections in the Lisbon, Porto and Cascais areas, while the remaining 55 trains will enhance service on regional lines, according to Alstom.