Dear Freight Car Maintenance Professional 

The Mechanical Association Railcar Technical Services held our annual technical conference this year at the Hilton Bonaventure Hotel in Montreal, Quebec, Canada on October 17 to 20, 2010. As usual.our educational sessions were held in conjunction with other associations who operate as the Coordinated Committee of Mechanical Associations. But, this year we were in Montreal partnering  with the Canadian Association of Railway Suppliers and the Railway Association of Canada.

This year’s conference was one of or most exciting in quite a while with a full agenda of current issues critical to every railcar maintenance professional, presented by those among us who are on the leading edge of today’s technology and regulations. Many of you had the opportunity to meet and share your thoughts with your associates from all segments of the rail car maintenance arena both from the United States and Canada. 

In addition to the outstanding presentations, leading industry vendors provided indoor exhibits and displays, which contained examples of their latest technology and were staffed with knowledgeable personnel who answered all of your inquires regarding their products. 

The Hilton Bonaventure Hotel provided a block of rooms for attendees of our conference and offered outstanding service to our organization.

Our Association exists to provide you, our members, with a solid knowledge and understanding of railcar maintenance. This continuing mission is only possible with your support through your membership and your participation in our annual technical conference.

If you would like to ask us a question regarding our organization, its mission or activities, please contact us by Email. We will answer you right away. Also, if you would like to review our 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 2008, 2009 or 2010 conference presentations, click on the "Archives" selection at the top or bottom of this page and select the conference of your choice.

As your new President for the upcoming years of 2010 to 2012, I would like to thank you for your continued participation and membership with the Mechanical Association Railcar Technical Services. We look forward to your continued membership.

James D. Panza

President, 2010 - 2012

Mechanical Association Railcar Technical Services