impact. Introducing catenary-powered maintenance equipment to the U.S. market is a key milestone in our sustainability strategy. In terms of impact, we strive to be a partner of choice for the rail industry by delivering exceptional value, fostering strong relationships, and shaping the future of rail through advancements that improve reliability, safety, and efficiency. Our ultimate vision is to support the growth of rail transportation as a sustainable and vital backbone of the infrastructure. These goals reflect our dedication to innovation and excellence, ensuring that Plasser American continues to lead and inspire in the years to come. On a personal note, what drives and inspires you as a leader, and how do you balance the demands of your role with your broader vision for the company’s long-term success? As a leader, I am driven by a deep commitment to people, innovation, and legacy. What inspires me most is seeing the impact of our work—how the solutions we create at Plasser American make railroads safer, more efficient, and more sustainable for future generations. It’s incredibly rewarding to lead a company that contributes to the long-term success of an industry that is vital to global infrastructure. Balancing the demands of my role requires a clear focus on priorities and a strong team. I trust and empower my team to take ownership of their areas of expertise, fostering collaboration and mutual respect. This allows me to stay engaged in strategic planning and innovation while ensuring the company’s daily operations run smoothly. I also take the long view—every decision I make is guided by our broader vision of building a company that leads through innovation, maintains its commitment to quality and safety, and creates value for employees, customers, and stakeholders. Staying connected to this vision helps me navigate challenges while ensuring Plasser American is positioned for sustainable growth and success. About Thomas Blechinger: Thomas Blechinger’s journey from a humble electrical mechanic apprenticeship to becoming President & CEO of Plasser American Corporation is a testament to his visionary leadership and deep expertise in the rail manufacturing industry. With a career rooted in hands-on engineering and a passion for transformation, Thomas has consistently driven innovation and operational excellence, solidifying Plasser American’s role as a key player in the railroad sector. A native of Austria now based in Virginia Beach, Thomas brings global expertise spanning North America, Europe, Latin America, and Asia. His strategic leadership has fostered diversification, new revenue streams, and the introduction of cutting-edge solutions. Beyond his role at Plasser American, he also holds other leadership positions including Canada and Mexico. Thomas’s early career gave him a strong foundation in the technical aspects of the industry, which he later complemented with an MBA, a Master in Business Management from the University of Klagenfurt, and executive education from the Yale School of Management. This unique combination of hands-on experience and strategic insight enables him to lead with both innovation and practicality. Residing in Virginia, Thomas continues to advance the rail industry while remaining deeply connected to his roots and the values that shaped his career. CEO Today Global Awards 2025 - USA - - 37 -
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