Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Corporation, commonly known as WABTEC Corporation (WAB), is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions, and value-added services for the freight and transit rail industries. Established in 1869, this U.S.-based company was started by George Westinghouse. It was initially focused on the manufacture of air brakes to enhance railway safety. The company has grown exponentially since then, transitioning from a regional company with concentration on the development of brakes, towards an international conglomerate.
Today, WABTEC's portfolio includes advanced freight car products, locomotives, passenger transit vehicles, digital systems, and more, aimed at enhancing the safety and efficiency of transport network worldwide. The company prides itself in its commitment to developing innovative and eco-friendly solutions. It continually aims to reduce emissions and improve transportation efficiency while ensuring high levels of safety. Its vision is geared towards enabling the world's freight operators and transit authorities to move goods and people more safely and efficiently.
Presently headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the firm operates in multiple locations across the globe, and employs over 27,000 skilled professionals. Its substantial global footprint includes manufacturing units, service centers, research and development facilities, and sales and services offices spread across 50 countries across six continents.
In February 2019, WABTEC completed the merger with General Electric's transportation business, making it a Fortune 500 company. This restructuring resulted in a more substantial focus on freight and transit rail. It currently serves a diverse clientele portfolio that includes freight railroads, passenger transit authorities, original equipment manufacturers, leasing companies, rebuilders, and aftermarket customers.
WABTEC has a rich legacy of pioneering technological innovations. One recent example is the development of battery and hydrogen-powered trains. The company is also heavily invested in digitization efforts, actively pursuing initiatives on Big Data and Internet of Things (IoT) to optimize the efficiency of rail operations.
In essence, WABTEC continues to position itself as a powerhouse in the global rail industry through constant innovation and the undivided commitment to its mission statement - "We engineer a safer, more efficient world."