On behalf of the American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association (AREMA), I welcome you to the AREMA 2010 Annual Conference & Exposition. This year’s program will again provide an excellent opportunity for members of the railway industry to increase their railway knowledge and experience. I want to extend a special welcome to the first time attendees, who in many cases represent the new generation of leaders in the railroad industry.

The Program Committee has assembled a great slate of 66 technical presentations that I think you will find informative and valuable in your jobs in the industry. Please note that Professional Development Hours are earned for participating in the Conference, subject to the individual state board’s final authority.

In addition to the technical presentations there are also a number of seminars and technical committee meetings either in advance of or following the Conference.

The Exposition will officially begin on Sunday, August 29, at noon and will be open until Tuesday, August 31 at 4:00 pm. More than 198 exhibits from various contractors, suppliers and consulting firms will provide you the opportunity to see first-hand some of their products and services and to learn how they can benefit you and your company.

Again, welcome to the AREMA 2010 Annual Conference & Exposition. Please take advantage of this excellent opportunity to converse with your fellow railroaders, exchange ideas and learn more about the industry. Feel free to contact me or the AREMA staff with questions you may have or with any suggestions you may have to make the Conference & Exposition a more rewarding experience. We look forward to you joining us this year.

John F. Unsworth, PEng
Manager, Structures Planning and Design
Canadian Pacific Railway Company
Program Committee Chair