Continuing a Legacy: IRS' Commitment to the Future of Railroads

Railroads have been an enduring cornerstone of American life for centuries, profoundly shaping our nation’s culture and progress. From creating new social orders and cities to embedding railroad terminology into our everyday language, railroads have symbolized progress and the future, ushering in rapid commerce and opening unprecedented opportunities.

Industry-Railway Suppliers is proud to carry forward this legacy, not just as participants but as dedicated contributors, guiding the industry toward meaningful change and a promising future.

Redefining Traditional Roles in the Railroad Industry

We believe that a diverse workforce drives progress and fosters meaningful change, so we were honored when Union Pacific asked us to hold their upcoming Women in Railroading Initiative on September 10th and 11th. This event is part of UP’s mission to boost diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and it’s thoughtful initiatives like this that are breaking ground, rebuilding a stronger foundation, and driving change for a more inclusive future in an industry that has been male-dominated for centuries.
The event will offer women a unique opportunity to explore a career in railroad maintenance with Union Pacific. Participants will experience a ‘day in the life’ of a track maintenance worker, get hands-on with our battery-powered tools on our track panel, and receive valuable insights from Union Pacific’s Engineering and Recruiting Teams about starting a career with the railroad. We’re proud to be part of this initiative and to support efforts that encourage more women to explore and thrive in the railroad industry.  

Learn more about UP's Women In Rail recruiting event at IRS

Stepping Towards a Greener Future

At IRS, safety and sustainability is a responsibility we take to heart. By partnering with companies such as Milwaukee Tool and Robel North America, we’re committed to working toward a safer, greener future.

Our 'TampDriver' combines a Milwaukee Breaker + Tamper + Spike Driver.

As distributors of Milwaukee and ROBEL North America battery-powered tools, we see this as a meaningful step forward. For tool operators, this means no fume inhalation, no handling of gas or oils, and no hazardous cords. For the  environment, this translates to reduced carbon emissions and less reliance on fossil fuels. 

ROBEL demonstrating their rail saw at the 2024 Chicago Railroad Show, our maintenance-of-way tradeshow.

Through these efforts, we aim to reduce the industry’s carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.

A Tight Gathering of Industry Leaders and Cutting-Edge Tools

The Chicago Railroad Show (CRS) is more than just a gathering—it's a catalyst for the evolution of railroad maintenance. By bringing together industry veterans, leaders, and top tool manufacturers in an intimate setting, CRS sparks impactful discussions, fosters new ideas, and showcases cutting-edge tools and technology. This meeting of minds helps drive advancements in industry-wide maintenance-of-way practices, helping to meet the demands of tomorrow.

J. Lanfranco's Jason Baines presenting at the 2024 Chicago Railroad Show.

Engineering the Future of Railroad Tools

Our approach to tool distribution goes beyond addressing the immediate needs in railroad maintenance. With the support of our in-house engineering department, we’re equipped to adapt to the ever evolving demands of maintenance-of-way.

One of our key strengths is the in-field support our sales team provides to our customers and Class One railroads. By listening to the challenges these railroads face, we’re able to develop tools in-house from concept to prototype, contributing to a more efficient future in track maintenance.

Our new, 'Green Level Board' Track Gauge is a multi-purpose tool for track inspection and gauge measurement.

Our nationwide sales team works closely with our engineering department to relay the issues faced by railroad crews, which enables the development of specialty tools that address both long standing and new, unique challenges.

Paving the Way Forward

Railroads have long been a symbol of progress and a vital force in the development of the United States, creating new opportunities and redefining the American landscape. At Industry-Railway Suppliers, we are committed to honoring this legacy and being a formidable force for positive change and growth in an industry that has stood the test of time. 

Interested in a career with Union Pacific? Register to join us for UP's Women In Rail recruiting event held at Industry-Railway Suppliers on Sept 10th and 11th.

To order our Milwaukee or ROBEL tools, please call our customer service department at (630) 766-5708.