On Tuesday, November 4th, 2025, the Canadian Association of Railway Suppliers (CARS) proudly hosted its Annual Awards Dinner, an evening dedicated to recognizing the people and organizations shaping the future of rail in Canada. From groundbreaking safety innovations to lifetime contributions, this year’s award recipients exemplify leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence.
Safety First: Signal Software Leads the Way
We began the evening by honouring Signal Software with the Safety Award for its transformative work in fatigue risk management. Their cloud-based Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS) is revolutionizing how rail operators address one of the industry’s most persistent challenges: fatigue. By focusing on human performance and proactive planning, Signal Software is helping organizations prevent incidents and foster a culture of safety that prioritizes worker wellbeing.
Driving Innovation: The Greenbrier Company
Innovation is the lifeblood of rail, and this year’s Innovation Award went to The Greenbrier Company for its GBX Training Tank Car™. This fully operational mobile classroom brings hands-on learning directly to shippers, operators, and repair teams, ensuring compliance with tank car regulatory standards while reinforcing rail’s reputation as one of the safest modes of transportation.
Championing Diversity: REMCAN Projects
The Diversity Award was presented to REMCAN Projects for its outstanding commitment to Indigenous Relations. In 2025, REMCAN achieved Silver Certification through the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business’ PAIR program—the highest certification level currently held in the rail industry. This achievement reflects their dedication to reconciliation and meaningful partnerships, with a clear goal of reaching Gold Certification.
The Future of Rail: Sean Anderson
The Future of Rail Award celebrates rising leaders under 40, and this year’s recipient is Sean Anderson, CEO & Co-Founder of Anderwell Mechanical. Starting with nothing but determination, Sean built a company that delivers comprehensive rail solutions—from preventive maintenance to emergency repairs. His vision and commitment to innovation are shaping the next generation of rail.
Honouring Lifelong Dedication
Two industry leaders were recognized with Lifetime Achievement Awards for their decades of service and impact:
Gordon Bachinsky – With over 50 years in the rail sector, Gordon founded Advanced Rail Management Corporation and the globally respected Wheel Rail Interaction Conference (WRI), shaping best practices and mentoring future professionals.
William (Bill) Whitford – A distinguished executive with more than 35 years of experience, Bill currently serves as Digital Account Executive at Wabtec Corporation. His career spans engineering, systems integration, and digital transformation, and his contributions to CARS as a board member and Treasurer have strengthened collaboration across the industry.
Looking Ahead
These awards highlight the incredible work being done across the rail sector to advance safety, innovation, diversity, and leadership. At CARS, we’re proud to celebrate these achievements and continue supporting initiatives that strengthen Canada’s rail industry.
Congratulations to all our 2025 award recipients!