September 22, 2026
Built by people. Driven by purpose.
Article by Paul Rieger, President
Fifteen years ago, on September 13, 2011, STACY WITBECK (SW) established MODERN RAILWAY SYSTEMS (MRS) with a vision of creating a company dedicated to the rail transportation systems side of our industry. The purpose was straightforward: provide STACY WITBECK with the ability to self-perform critical systems work, better control project outcomes, and enhance the value delivered to our customers. Just a few months later, that vision became reality when Rail Systems Solutions (RSS) was acquired and became MRS. This was a deliberate and strategic decision. At the time, RSS was a company of just 12 individuals, primarily focused on program and project management, supported by a key systems expert and two highly respected testing specialists. What made RSS unique was its commitment to management excellence, a customer-first mindset, deep technical expertise, and the ability to successfully place complex systems into service.
The acquisition was also a natural fit. Prior to joining MRS, more than 50 percent of RSS's work was already being performed with STACY WITBECK. Both organizations shared a project-first mentality, a strong focus on customer success, and similar cultural values. Bringing the two companies together was an easy decision and created a strong foundation for future growth. Fifteen years ago, MRS was a much smaller organization, but the vision behind it was significant: help expand MRS’ potential and build the systems arm of STACY WITBECK with the expertise, resources, and entrepreneurial spirit needed to deliver high-quality solutions while complementing the capabilities of STACY WITBECK.
Over the past decade and a half, that vision has continued to grow. Some of that growth came through the addition of talented people and the development of new capabilities. Another important milestone was the acquisition of RSC, which brought experienced professionals, specialized expertise, strong customer relationships, and expanded communications offerings. These additions strengthened our ability to serve customers and broadened the solutions we could provide. Over the years, MRS has evolved into a comprehensive railway systems partner by expanding both the breadth and depth of services we offer. Today, our capabilities span the full project lifecycle, including Project Management, Systems Design, Engineering, Construction, Integration, Testing, and Commissioning. Our project management teams provide leadership and coordination that help owners successfully navigate complex rail programs from concept through revenue service. Our systems design and engineering professionals develop practical, innovative solutions that integrate the many technologies required for modern rail operations. Through construction, integration, testing, and commissioning, we bring those solutions to life, ensuring systems perform safely, reliably, and as intended. More recently, we have expanded our capabilities within the electrification market through the self-performance of Overhead Contact System (OCS) installation and Traction Power Substation rehabilitation programs. These additions further strengthen our ability to support the evolving needs of the transit and rail industry.
Just as importantly, our diverse capabilities provide the flexibility to tailor our involvement to the unique requirements of each project. We can serve as a full-service partner delivering complete solutions, or we can strategically focus on specific disciplines while partnering with others where it best supports project success. This flexibility has allowed us to pursue and win key projects by bringing the right expertise, at the right time, with the right partners, always focused on delivering the greatest value to our customers. MRS has also strengthened its presence and reputation within the transit and rail industry through active participation and leadership in key professional organizations. Our team has contributed through RSSI Board membership, involvement on AREMA committees, membership in the Institution of Railway Signal Engineers (IRSE), and engagement with numerous industry coalitions and associations. These efforts have allowed MRS to help shape industry best practices, remain at the forefront of emerging technologies and trends, and build lasting relationships across the rail transportation community. Just as importantly, these industry partnerships have reinforced customer relationships, expanded our professional network, and helped create the strong foundation that has supported MRS's continued growth and success.
The goal, however, was never simply to become a larger company. It was to become a more capable and complete railway partner for our customers. As our capabilities have expanded and our industry presence has grown, so has our approach to project delivery. Today, MRS brings together expertise across multiple disciplines and works alongside our civil construction partners to provide integrated, end-to-end solutions. Our involvement in Progressive Design Build and other collaborative delivery models is a natural extension of that evolution. Yet our journey is far from complete. MRS continues to evolve, mature, and expand its capabilities to meet the needs of an ever-changing industry. While we celebrate the accomplishments of the past 15 years, we remain focused on the opportunities ahead.
Looking forward, we can be confident that the foundation established by STACY WITBECK fifteen years ago has positioned MODERN RAILWAY SYSTEMS for continued success. The vision, values, customer focus, technical excellence, and entrepreneurial spirit that shaped our beginning remain the cornerstones of who we are today. This milestone reflects what can be achieved when talented people share a common purpose and commitment to excellence. It is a testament to the employees, customers, partners, and leaders who have contributed to our success along the way.
Congratulations on 15 years of growth, partnership, and achievement.