North America

The IRSE North American Section serves professionals in the fields of railway signaling, train control, highway grade crossing warning systems, positive train control, and communications. It encompasses members from the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and its mission is to support and advance the science of train control and signaling by fostering knowledge sharing, professional development, and networking.

The IRSE North American Section is actively involved in key industry events, including the annual RSSI C&S (Railway Signal & Communications) Exhibition. The section's participation typically includes:

• Annual General Meeting (AGM): A key event during the exhibition, where members gather to discuss important developments, elect officers, and address other organizational matters. Followed by papers, presentations, and a social mixer.

• Exhibition Booth: The section hosts a booth at the RSSI C&S exhibition, providing an opportunity to showcase the IRSE's work, engage with industry professionals, and share the latest in signaling and communications technology.

• Technical Tours: These are organized as part of the exhibition, providing members with hands-on experience and insights into the latest systems and infrastructure related to railway signaling and communications.

In addition to the RSSI C&S Exhibition, the IRSE North American Section also hosts quarterly webinars. These webinars feature:

• IRSE Members: Sharing their expertise and knowledge.

• Industry Leaders: Discussing trends, challenges, and advancements in railway signaling and communications.

• Signaling and Train Control Manufacturers: Presenting the latest products and innovations from their companies, both in North America and globally.

These webinars provide members with a valuable platform to stay informed, learn from experts, and discuss pressing issues and emerging technologies in the field of railway signaling and communications.

The section was officially launched with its first meeting in Louisville, Kentucky, on 24 May 2002. Since then, it has hosted an Annual General Meeting (AGM) and technical tours focused on the latest developments and technologies in the Signals and Communications profession. The section continues to offer members the opportunity to stay current with industry trends, share best practices, and explore emerging technologies.

To become a member of the IRSE North American Section, you must first be a member of the IRSE at large. Once you are an IRSE member, you can apply to join the North American section by completing the section’s specific application form.

For detailed information about upcoming events, including conferences and technical tours, please visit the IRSE North American Section's LinkedIn page and the events page on their website.

IRSE North American section committee key contacts

• Chair: Chad Baker (MIRSE) Signal Design Manager - Rail/Transit, HDR

• Vice-Chair: John Spellman (P.E., MIRSE)

• Honorable Secretary-Treasurer: Ray Rizman (P.E., MIRSE) Principal Systems Engineer - BARIOM Engineering

• Regional Section Leader: Rob Burkhardt (P.E., FIRSE) Retired

Council Representative:

• Rae Faber (AMIRSE) Senior Engineering Manager - Modern Railway Systems

Member Representative(s):

• Firas Al-Tahan (MIRSE) Transit & Rail Lead – Stantec

• Claire Burkhardt (P.E., MIRSE) Senior Project Manager – Modern Railway Systems

• Stuart Maddock (CEng MIRSE) Director, Asset Management and Maintenance - Network Rail Consulting

• Martin Pope (MIRSE) Retired

• Caleb Srp (MIRSE) Manager of Technical Training - Signal Training Solutions

Additional information

Copies of the Introduction to North American Railway Signaling text book may be purchased at a reduced rate by IRSE members.