Innovation in Technology Award

The NRC is pleased to offer the third annual “Innovation in Technology and Process Award.” This award honors and recognizes innovation and unique technologies/services and/or processes, created or implemented by an NRC member company. Eligible technologies or processes include grade crossings, RWP, contractor safety, freight rail, industrial track, rail transit, commuter rail, intercity passenger rail, rail on port facilities and rail on military facilities.  

The NRC’s Technology Committee, chaired by Allen Branham, president of B4 Solutions, LLC., developed the award in 2022 to highlight ways our members are using technology to enhance safety and operations in our industry. The Committee’s formation and work come in response to requests by railway engineering leaders for technology solutions that will help generate returns on investment and bottom-line savings. In 2024, the NRC expanded to award to includes innovative processes, which greatly impacts railway operating practices.

A first and second place award were presented at the 2024 NRC Conference in Scottsdale, Arizona. The 2024 awards will be presented in January at the NRC Conference in Marco Island, Florida.

  • Application – The NRC will accept submissions for the 2024 awards beginning in the fall. Digital submissions are strongly encouraged. As a reference, here is the 2023 Innovation in Technology Award Application, including the application, criteria and submission instructions.
  • Deadline – November 15,  2024
  • Award Winners:

2023 - First place: FTS Tools for Laser-Focused; Second place: Industry Railway Suppliers for CD400SP-IQ, a self-propelled intelligent clip piler manufactured by Pandrol - Learn more

2022 - First place: FTS Tools for battery-operated tools; Second place: Harsco Rail for its TX16 production/switch tamper - Learn more

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What our members say…

“The NRC’s Technology Committee was developed in response to requests by railway engineering leaders for technology solutions that will help generate returns on investment and bottom-line savings. The Committee introduced the ‘Innovation in Technology Award’ to recognize innovative and unique technologies or technological services. The award highlights ways our members are using technology to enhance safety and operations in our industry.”

Allen Branham

President

B4 Solutions LLC