By RSI President Jim Riley
Earlier this year, I was honored to step into the role of president for RSI, filling “big shoes” being preceded by Patty Long. The vision she and the board have laid out has significantly strengthened RSI. It’s clear I’ve been set up for success. It’s my intention to build upon the solid foundation she established. I am deeply grateful for the warm welcome extended to me by the members, board, and staff of RSI.
With nearly 25 years of experience in trade associations, including experience within the transportation sector, I bring a wealth of knowledge and familiarity to RSI, and I look forward to showing you that as my time in this role goes on. My professional journey has been marked by a profound passion for railways, having worked on rail issues across various industries. Personally speaking, I’ve been a dedicated commuter rail rider for over two decades. My lifelong interest and commitment to the rail industry drives my determination to make a meaningful impact for RSI.
Our association has a rich history we can be proud of, dating back to 1908 when we were established as the Railway Business Association. In our more than a century of existence, we’ve experienced much evolution. Our historical journey underscores the enduring significance and impact of RSI in the railway supply industry.
If you’re curious about our impact, let me point to the data. RSI represents an industry that encompasses over 1.6 million railcars, drawn by more than 28,000 locomotives on 140,000 miles of rail. Our members build and maintain 70% of freight rail cars and 95% of tank cars operating on the North American railway system. This makes RSI the largest trade association in the railway supply industry, representing the full supply chain — from the smallest parts manufacturer to the largest railcar builders and lessors.
I was immediately struck by the impressive advocacy work and high regard in which RSI is held by congressional and administration officials. With nearly 200 members, 725 locations, and representation in 277 congressional districts, we carry significant weight in the legislative arena — something that will serve us well as we face an increasingly complex and rapidly changing regulatory landscape.
Transportation is one of the most bipartisan areas in Congress, and we have the potential to accomplish a great deal. Our members are deeply connected and involved with elected officials; their ability to advocate for themselves is a testament to their dedication. It is through these relationships with elected officials and their effective lobbying efforts that we can achieve significant progress.
Beyond maintaining our high standards for advocacy work, my primary objectives as president are threefold:
- Continue growing RSI’s membership.
- Enhance its recognition among the administration, Congress, media, and the association community.
- Establish RSI as the foremost source of information about the railway supply industry.
The Board of Directors, in collaboration with myself and staff, will develop a new three-year strategic plan from 2026-2028, which is an opportune time to outline how we can achieve the goals I’ve mentioned.
Listening to our members will be at the core of this approach. The most successful associations are those that truly understand the needs of the individuals and companies they serve. I am committed to hearing from you and adding your insights into our strategic plan. This will involve engaging with members through our various volunteer committees, understanding the challenges they face with passenger and freight rail, and addressing concerns related to tax, trade, and regulatory matters, among other key topics.
I am thrilled to lead RSI at this pivotal moment. Together, we will continue to advocate for our industry, foster innovation, and build strong relationships across the railway ecosystem. I look forward to working with all of you to achieve our shared goals and make RSI the foremost authority in the railway supply industry.
About the Railway Supply Institute (RSI)
The Railway Supply Institute (RSI) is dedicated to advancing safety, innovation, technology, and sustainability within the freight and passenger railway supplier industry, both in North America and global markets. As the voice of the industry, RSI strategically engages in critical and urgent industry matters by leveraging the technical expertise of our members to advocate in the legislative and regulatory arenas, foster education, host impactful events, and facilitate networking opportunities. For more information visit www.rsiweb.org, follow RSI on Twitter and LinkedIn.
