As Canada’s largest provider of track maintenance and construction services, Universal Rail is committed to keeping the country’s rail network safe, efficient, and ready for the future. Serving clients across freight, industrial, and transit sectors, the company combines industry-leading expertise with a strong focus on safety, sustainability, and innovation.
Since joining the Canadian Association of Railway Suppliers (CARS), Universal Rail has found value in connecting with industry peers, staying engaged with the issues shaping Canada’s railway sector, and contributing to the collective advancement of the industry. Through relationships built at CARS events and industry forums, the company has gained valuable insights, strengthened key partnerships, and expanded opportunities that support both its business objectives and broader organizational goals. In this member feature, Universal Rail shares its CARS journey, the benefits of membership, and why it encourages other railway suppliers to get involved.
1. Who is Universal Rail?
Canada’s largest provider of track maintenance and construction services.
Universal Rail is more than a company—it’s a catalyst for connecting Canada’s economy and vast geography. As a proud member of the North American Rail Solutions group, we play a critical role in shaping the future of rail transportation across the continent.
We help our clients move the goods, services, and people that keep the Canadian economy on track. With an uncompromising commitment to safety, sustainability, and excellence, we deliver turnkey railway solutions for every sector. From industrial track owners to Class 1 and short-line freight operators, and transit rail systems nationwide, we have the capacity to bring your vision to life—safely and efficiently.
Proudly Canadian, Universal Rail is the driving force behind keeping your movement on track. Together with our partners, we leverage expertise and resources to deliver innovative solutions that support Canada’s rail infrastructure today and for the future.
2. What initially motivated your company to join the Canadian Association of Railway Suppliers (CARS)?
Our motivation for joining CARS was to be part of a collective voice that supports the growth and advancement of Canada’s railway industry. CARS provides an opportunity to connect with industry stakeholders, gain insight into emerging trends and challenges, and participate in conversations that help strengthen the rail supply chain and industry as a whole.
3. What has been the most valuable benefit of CARS membership for your organization?
The most valuable benefit has been the opportunity to build meaningful industry relationships. Through CARS events, networking opportunities, and industry engagement activities, we have been able to connect with railways, suppliers, and stakeholders from across the country. These connections provide valuable industry insight, facilitate collaboration, and create opportunities to share best practices that help drive continuous improvement throughout the industry.
4. Can you share a specific example of how your company has benefited from being involved with CARS?
National Railway Day (NRD) 2025 is a great example of how our involvement with CARS has delivered value. One particularly meaningful outcome was the introduction to an Indigenous organization that has become a valuable partner to our Indigenous Engagement strategy. That connection has helped us identify opportunities for collaboration and strengthen our commitment to building respectful, long-term relationships with Indigenous communities. By creating opportunities for these types of conversations and connections, CARS plays an important role in supporting both the growth of our business and the advancement of our broader organizational goals.
5. What would you say to another railway supplier considering joining CARS?
We would strongly encourage them to get involved. CARS provides a valuable forum for building relationships, gaining industry insights, and staying connected to the issues shaping Canada’s railway sector. Whether you are looking to expand your network, increase your industry visibility, or contribute to the future of rail in Canada, CARS offers meaningful opportunities to learn, collaborate, and grow alongside other industry professionals.
Interested in becoming part of a stronger, more connected railway supply industry? CARS provides members with valuable opportunities to build relationships, gain industry insights, increase their visibility, and contribute to the conversations shaping the future of rail in Canada. Whether you're a longstanding industry leader or a growing supplier looking to expand your network, CARS offers a platform to learn, collaborate, and grow. To learn more about membership benefits, visit www.railwaysuppliers.ca or contact the CARS team today.
About CARS
The Canadian Association of Railway Suppliers (CARS) is the national voice of Canada's railway supply industry, representing companies that provide products and services to the freight, passenger, transit, and industrial rail sectors. Through advocacy, industry engagement, networking, and business development opportunities, CARS works to strengthen the railway supply chain and support a thriving rail industry across Canada.