People notice new trains when they roll into service. Fewer see the people and the skills that make them possible. At Hagerstown, our aim is straightforward: build dependable railcars and build dependable careers at the same time.
Investing in Good Jobs
This $100 million site marks a major advancement for Hitachi Rail in North America. At full operation, the factory will sustain about 1,300 jobs in total, with up to 460 people working directly at the plant. That’s about $350 million in annual regional wages.
These roles span mechanical and electrical assembly, quality control and assurance, manufacturing Engineering, Project management and controlling, materials planning, maintenance, logistics, health and safety, procurement and digital operations. We hire experienced craftspeople and early-career talent, and we offer clear pathways to advance.
Digital Tools That Build Skills
Technology on the floor helps people do their best work. Over $30 million in digital upgrades support quality, safety, and delivery. Teams use real time monitoring to spot issues early. AI assisted inspection, including robots and drones for visual checks, raises reliability and reduces rework. On site additive manufacturing and 3D printing let us produce tools and small parts quickly and cut waiting time. These tools add value today and build skills that last.
Designed for a Cleaner Workspace
The factory is designed to be both a cleaner workplace and a better neighbor. From day one, it will be carbon-neutral and landfill-free. These steps support a safer, quieter and more orderly workplace while improving environmental performance over time.
The Economic Ripple Effect
A modern factory fuels a modern economy. Alongside direct employment, Hagerstown sustains jobs across suppliers, logistics partners and local services. As we expand to serve systems in Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia and Ontario, that activity circulates through the region. A steady production schedule lets employees plan their lives and supports demand for local goods and services. Training and upskilling keep talent in the community. Over time, these effects compound into stronger small businesses, schools and local tax bases.
Pride in Place, Pride in Craft
Railcar manufacturing is teamwork. Each car reflects thousands of precise steps, cut, weld, fit and test, done by people who take pride in their craft. The Hagerstown team values discipline, problem solving and mutual respect. When an operator identifies an issue or a technician proposes a more efficient method for staging components, we incorporate that insight into our processes. This commitment to continuous improvement is what drives our factory forward every day
One Hitachi Advantage
The facility brings together expertise from Hitachi Rail, Hitachi Digital, GlobalLogic and Hitachi Digital Services. This collaboration drives software-enabled innovation, accelerates problem resolution, and empowers us to consistently elevate standards in quality and delivery.
What Comes Next?
Opening our doors marks a significant milestone, but it’s only the beginning. Our mission is to drive continuous improvement—both in our people and in our performance. We remain committed to investing in training across digital tools, quality systems, and leadership development. We will broaden career pathways across disciplines and strengthen our community connections through responsible operations and local hiring. As cities embrace cleaner, more connected transit solutions, the Hagerstown team stands ready to deliver the future—one railcar at a time.
Inspired to join our team?