Supplier news from Loram, Burns Engineering, Hitachi Rail and Siemens Mobility

Loram has published its first Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) report, establishing a baseline for measuring and communicating Loram's performance of ESG values. It highlights the progress the company has made in employee safety and innovation, fleet modernization, workforce development and responsible business practices, Loram officials said in a press release. The company, which provides rail maintenance, inspection and infrastructure optimization solutions, believes sustainability is not separate from its daily business operations. Sustainability "is part of the value created when rail assets last longer. It is also reflected in more reliable networks and infrastructure investments that deliver greater returns," officials said.

Burns Engineering has hired Andrew Liu as chief growth officer, a new position created to drive acceleration and scaling of growth across all markets. Liu brings over 20 years of experience in roles focused on strategic growth, market expansion and operational performance across transportation, infrastructure and technology-focused organizations, said Burns officials in a press release. In his executive role at Burns, Liu will help the firm align and scale market strategy, client development and internal growth operations as it continues to expand its national reach in the railroad industry.

Hitachi Rail and Siemens Mobility have been selected by OBB, the Austrian railway operator, to digitalize the country's interlocking technology with about 300 new digital interlocking units. The 30-year contract is worth about 2.6 billion euros, split evenly between the two companies. A pilot project will roll out in fourth-quarter 2030. Siemens Mobility will implement its Signaling X technology platform for the project. The software system integrates interlockings, the train control system and cybersecurity applications, said Siemens Mobility officials in a press release. Hitachi Rail will provide services ranging from the development of software to network-wide deployment and lifecycle support for the installations, Hitachi Rail officials said.