CSX provides tablets to T&E crews; honored as 'Rail Carrier of the Year'

More than 8,000 train and engine (T&E) employees across the CSX network are now equipped with iPads, providing critical tools to support on-duty job functions while offering convenient features for off-duty use, the Class I announced yesterday.

The distribution marks a significant step in leveraging technology to enhance workplace efficiency and employee satisfaction, CSX officials said in a press release.

The iPads are equipped with custom technology to enable distraction-free access to the CSX T&E portal and other essential work applications during duty hours. Off duty, employees can use the tablets to enjoy features like FaceTime and iMessage, company officials said.

The rollout — which involved teams from the transportation, safety, crew management, business systems and service design departments — reached more than 260 work sites. Feedback from the initial pilot deployment played a critical role in refining the devices, said CSX Varney said Chad Varney, lead senior product manager for CSX.

“We initially were introducing a smaller-sized tablet,” Varney said. “But as we heard feedback from the field, we discovered our teams preferred a larger device – so we made a change to offer two different sizes, based on individual choice."

Meanwhile, CSX was recognized recently as the 2024 Rail Carrier of the Year by Diversified CPC and Highroad Consulting Ltd., an honor that underscores the company’s commitment to service excellence and innovation in freight-rail transportation, CSX officials said yesterday in a press release. The award recognizes not only operational strength but also CSX’s ability to support long-term growth and value creation for its partners, they added.