Railway Tie Association

In the final article of his four-part series, Bradley Crawford of Stella-Jones takes us through the fascinating lifecycle of crossties—from initial processing to sustainable end-of-life solutions. Wood ties are the backbone of our railroad infrastructure, ensuring the strength and reliability of railroads that keep essential services moving. Learn how the industry continues to innovate while preserving our natural resources. 📖 Don’t miss this insightful read in the latest issue of Crossties Magazine! https://buff.ly/3PmT0fO ✨ #FeatureFriday ✨

🎉 Happy New Year from RTA! 🎉 As we say goodbye to 2024 and look ahead to 2025, we want to thank our members for an amazing year of progress, collaboration, and innovation. Our community has achieved so much, and we’re excited for the opportunities the new year will bring! Here’s to a bright and prosperous 2025! 🥂

🎄 Merry Christmas from RTA! 🎄 As we celebrate this holiday season, we’re grateful for the incredible RTA community and the dedication of our members who keep the wood tie and freight rail industries moving forward. May your Christmas be filled with joy, peace, and time spent with loved ones. 🌟

Fun Friday Alert! 🌟 During the 2024 RTA Conference, this adventurous group explored the breathtaking Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. 🌄 They hiked and admired the stunning Mojave Desert geologic formations, all while enjoying some extra time together outside the conference schedule. We’re already planning for optional tour fun 😎 at the 2025 RTA Conference in San Antonio. Stay tuned for updates! https://buff.ly/3DpowHr

Planning for Excellence: 2025 RTA Tie Grading Seminar RTA Executive Director Nathan Irby, Ph.D., met with Stella-Jones Quality Assurance Technical Services Manager Jordan Estes to prepare content for the 2025 RTA Tie Grading Seminar, happening in March in College Station, Texas. Jordan, a graduate of the 2004 NHLA Lumber Grading School and the 2010 RTA Tie Grading Seminar, now serves as one of the seminar’s esteemed instructors. More info: https://buff.ly/3CstYJ3

📢 Fresh Off the Press: The New Issue of Crossties Magazine is Here! In this issue, RTA Executive Director Nathan Irby, Ph.D., looks back at 2024, highlighting the association's work and dedication to serving the collective wood tie industry. From teaching and advocacy to networking and engagement, RTA remains committed to keeping wood tie markets strong, sustainable, and connected. 📰 Read the full article and reflect on the year with us: https://buff.ly/49YMXaV

RTA in Action 🤝 RTA Executive Director Nathan Irby, Ph.D., stopped by member Amerities South LLC’s wood treating facility in Hope, Arkansas, today. Pictured here with Seth Britt, Assistant Plant Manager, Dr. Irby enjoyed the opportunity to visit and connect with members on-site. AmeriTies Holdings LLC

As the week comes to a close, we’re reminded of the hard work and dedication that drives our industry forward. Whether in the field or behind the scenes, every effort helps strengthen the ties—both literal and figurative—that keep us connected. Pictured here are railroad procurement professionals speaking to RTA members at our recent conference, sharing insights and ideas that continue to shape our community.

RTA Executive Director Nathan Irby, Ph.D. joined industry peers at the West Side Hardwood Club Christmas meeting in Arkansas today. The event provided a valuable opportunity for networking over lunch and exchanging insights about the current hardwood market. Events like these strengthen our ties within the hardwood community and keep us connected to the pulse of the industry. 🌟

📍On the Road Again! 🎵 RTA Executive Director Nathan Irby, Ph.D. visited the Koppers Inc. tie processing and treating plant in Camden, Arkansas, this week, where he met with Yard Manager and Tie Buyer Jeff Peterson. These member visits are vital to RTA’s mission of staying connected with the industry and supporting the incredible work our members do to keep wood ties on track! 🚂🌲