Huntington, WV — Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV) today toured Magnetech Industrial Services, Inc. in Huntington. There, she learned about their operations and impact on West Virginia railroads. Magnetech is the recognized leader in the repair, service, and supply of electrical equipment, including essential components of railroad locomotives.
“West Virginia’s railroad infrastructure connects our communities and allows our goods to be transported throughout our state and around the country,” Congresswoman Miller said. “Today I saw a world-class company that services the locomotives that run on our railroads, and creates good-paying jobs in the region. I am extremely impressed by Magnetech’s contributions to both our community and to the success of American freight railroads.”
Magnetech’s Huntington service center, which employs 27, specializes in the repair of locomotive components for Class I and light railroads. The company opened the original service center in Huntington in 2002. As sales increased, the facility was moved to its current location in 2012, which nearly doubled the square footage and allowed for upgraded equipment and capabilities.
“Our Huntington facility is evidence of the historic partnership the railroads have had with West Virginia,” said facility manager Keith Blankenship. “Our goal is to stay on the cutting edge of electrical services. Maintaining partnerships with all rail stakeholders is important for our continued contributions to the industry.”
“To continue putting the economic interests of our community first, we must not forget the strength of the industries that have been with us for decades,” said David Lieving, CEO of the HADCO. “As we look toward the future, we must not overlook the public benefits of the investments made by privately owned freight railroads and their role in supporting future development in West Virginia.”
Following the tour, a discussion took place on the work Congress has done to reduce overburdensome federal regulations and ensure the success of our railroads. Congresswoman Miller is a co-sponsor of the BRACE Act, a tax credit that will help smaller railroads like the Kanawha River Railroad invest in rail infrastructure.
