Austrian company commits beyond immediate economic impact, planning to enrich the local community with apprenticeship programs, nurturing a skilled workforce for a sustainable future in rail industry innovation!
01/24: Austrian Innovation on Track in Virginia: Ambassador Petra Schneebauer attended in October 2023 Plasser American’s ribbon-cutting event, celebrating its new 82,000 sqft rail maintenance facility in Chesapeake, VA adding 75 new jobs. This expansion bzy the U.S. arm of Austria’s Plasser & Theurer marks a significant Austrian investment in the U.S. rail sector and aligns with forecasts of surging U.S. freight rail demand.
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, present at the ceremony, highlighted the expansions’ strategic timing, coinciding with anticipated national freight rail growth, opening avenues for investment and more job creation in Virginia, emphasizing the states’ commitment to economic growth and development! Ambassador Schneebauer further lauded the $43 million investment and stressed the dual benefits of Plasser’s expansion: significant technological advancement in the U.S. rail system and a substantial contribution to sustainable mobility, aligning with global environmental goals.
The main works involve a new office building, expansion of the assembly area and the warehouse and campus enhancements. Thomas Blechinger, President of Plasser American, says, “This historical project is our proof of trust in the North American railroad system and confidence in the U.S. economy. I am proud of our company’s development in the United States over the last six decades and here in Chesapeake, VA for already 50 years. This milestone is our chance to show our commitment to the region and to support local talents, employees and suppliers.” Plasser American has grown from a small operation with five employees in 1961 to now more than 300 employees.
The Austrian family business Plasser & Theurer has been founded in 1953, being the world’s technology leader in the field of track maintenance machines for almost 70 years, employing 5,000 staff worldwide. Numerous developments in a wide range of fields will ensure it retains this position for years to come, developing and manufacturing heavy duty machines and systems for laying and installing, renewing and maintaining tracks and overhead lines. That makes them a first point of contact for heavy duty track maintenance machine needs.
© Photo: Plasser & Theurer
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