Our goal is to create value for our clients. The best way to do that is to stay current with the railway associations and transportation industry. NARP is committed to advancing the industry to deliver quality, safety, and confidence to our customers. That’s why NARP is proud to support or be a member of eight railway associations throughout North America.
American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA)
Since 1913, the ASLRRA has represented entrepreneurial owners and operators of short-line and regional railroads in North America. Many of these businesses provide first- or last-mile connections between our nation’s farmers, manufacturers, and end customers.
Short-line railroads operate 50,000 miles of track daily, representing 30% of the national railroad system. ASLRRA members are over 1,000 strong and have a diverse, dynamic, and entrepreneurial collection of businesses in our industry.
The ASLRRA offers many educational offerings, including webinars and drug and alcohol training materials, and it also provides various educational industry scholarships.
The Railway Association of Canada (RAC)
RAC was established in 1971 and currently represents over 60 freight and passenger railway companies in Canada (equating to about $380 billion worth of goods annually). It also extends its membership (associate members) to industrial railways and railway supply companies (like NARP). Together, these RAC member companies provide employment to over 35,000 Canadians in the industry.
The RAC believes in safety, sustainability, and advocacy (which mirror our values at NARP):
- Safety: RAC is dedicated to safety and security
- Sustainability: RAC is dedicated to reducing emissions and minimizing its negative impact on the planet.
- Advocacy: RAC actively works with all levels of development to evolve regulations, rules, and standards for the railway industry in Canada.
The Canadian Association of Railway Suppliers (CARS)
CARS represents over 155 companies that supply tracks and train materials, including locomotive components, freight care components, and track equipment within Canada and globally. The organization supports members by opening doors in the industry and with domestic and foreign governments.
The group also advocates in Ottawa regarding legislation and actions that affect the rail industry. The organization’s commitment is further exemplified by sponsoring two scholarships for members pursuing continuing education or a career in rail or women in the industry.
Le Groupe Traq
Based in Quebec, Canada, Le Groupe Traq was founded in 1987 by employees of the Canadian National (CN), the Action Committee of Quebec CN employees (CAECNQ), and its 500 members. Their mandate was to save the jobs of railway workers.
American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-way Association (AREMA)
Railway engineering personnel can join AREMA for numerous educational opportunities and to stay abreast of best practices for railway engineering infrastructure including track, structures, communications, and signals. There are currently over 5,500 members working together to innovate for the future.
Members are dedicated to working together to further the development and advancement of the rail industry. The organization regularly publishes best-practices guides and reference materials, provides a comprehensive career centre, and sponsors scholarships for students pursuing railway industry careers.
Canadian Railway Club
This non-profit organization has been around for over 100 years. It promotes knowledge of the railway transportation industry and supports good relationships and networking for members through meetings and social events.
Individual membership is just $30 per year (or free for the first two years if you’re under 35), and members get access to exclusive industry publications, discounts on rail travel, and invitations to club events and galas.
The Toronto Railway Club
This railway association connects those working within the Toronto, Canada area. Members regularly meet to expand their networks and exchange ideas to further the interests of the rail industry in the region.
They’ve been “on the right track” since 1931, helping members in the Greater Toronto area solve common problems and explore solutions together. Since its start, it has been dedicated to providing members with a solid social network to stay connected.
The National Railroad Construction and Maintenance Association, Inc. (“NRC”)
NRC is a U.S. trade association that advances the mutual interests of railway contractors and suppliers who construct, maintain and supply railroads and rail transit lines. As an organization, they work with members to create a favourable business climate and make railway construction safer and more efficient.
As a member of NRC, you gain exclusive access to key market insights and data. This valuable information can significantly boost your rail business’ bottom line.
Our commitment to railway associations
At NARP, we are unwaveringly committed to providing seamless and dependable services. Our involvement in the industry groups and railway associations mentioned in this article is part of that dedication.
When it comes to rail products and information, we aim to be your go-to team. Our dedication to staying up to date on the industry ensures that we are always equipped with the latest knowledge, so you won’t have to.
Learn more about our Rail Services or Rail Products on our website, or contact us directly with your project details or needs. We’re happy to share our knowledge and expertise with you.
