Rail Safety Veteran Joins ESI, Strengthening Forensic Expertise as PTC Era Evolves

November 03, 2025 – Engineering Systems Inc. (ESI), a leading forensic engineering and scientific investigation firm, today announced the addition of Matthew Dick to its team. Dick, a veteran with decades of experience in the rail industry, joins ESI to further enhance its capabilities in forensic investigation, risk management, and expert testimony, particularly as the industry continues to evolve in the wake of Positive Train Control (PTC) implementation and faces new safety challenges.

Dick’s arrival is strategically timed. While PTC has demonstrably improved rail safety by mitigating human error – preventing train-to-train collisions, overspeed derailments, and incursions into work zones – the industry is acknowledging a shift in incident causation. Data suggests a rise in incidents related to mechanical and electrical failures, demanding a heightened focus on forensic analysis and preventative risk management.

“The implementation of PTC was a monumental achievement, but it’s not a silver bullet,” explained one anonymous rail industry consultant. “We’re seeing a refinement of the challenges. It’s less about preventing actions by operators and more about identifying and addressing systemic issues with infrastructure and equipment. That’s where expertise like Matthew’s is invaluable.”

A Deep Dive into ESI’s Capabilities and the Shifting Safety Landscape

ESI has long been a trusted partner to Class I railroads, shortlines, and regional operators, providing specialized services ranging from derailment investigations and failure analysis to comprehensive risk management programs. The firm’s multidisciplinary approach, combining expertise from various engineering and scientific fields, allows it to tackle complex technical problems with a holistic perspective.

“ESI understands that rail safety isn’t just about reacting to incidents; it’s about proactively identifying and mitigating risks before they escalate,” stated a company representative. “We partner with our clients to develop tailored solutions that address their specific challenges and improve their overall safety performance.”

The addition of Dick strengthens ESI’s ability to provide these solutions, particularly in the context of a post-PTC environment. His expertise covers areas crucial to modern rail safety, including track analysis, materials testing, and hazard mitigation. He brings a deep understanding of the interplay between technology, infrastructure, and human factors.

PTC: A Success Story with Ongoing Challenges

As of December 2020, PTC is fully operational across all required rail route miles in the United States. This accomplishment represents a significant investment of time, resources, and effort by the rail industry. The system is designed to automatically slow or stop a train if an engineer fails to respond to warnings or violates safety rules.

However, the implementation was not without its challenges. Achieving interoperability among different railroad systems, dealing with vendor issues, and navigating complex regulations all presented significant hurdles. Costs were also substantial, with the total investment estimated to be over $14 billion.

“The initial focus was understandably on getting PTC up and running,” explained one anonymous railroad safety official. “Now, we’re entering a phase of optimization and refinement. We need to analyze data, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that the system is operating effectively and efficiently.”

The shift in incident causation following PTC implementation highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to rail safety. While PTC effectively addresses human error, it does not eliminate all risks. Mechanical failures, track defects, and equipment malfunctions remain potential threats.

ESI: A Proactive Approach to Risk Management

ESI’s commitment to proactive risk management sets it apart from many of its competitors. The firm’s rail industry veterans work closely with clients to conduct pre-loss assessments, identify potential hazards, and develop strategies to mitigate risks.

Services include:

• Forensic Investigation: Thorough analysis of incidents to determine root causes and contributing factors.
• Failure Analysis: Identification of the mechanisms that led to component or system failures.
• Track Analysis and Monitoring: Assessment of track conditions and identification of potential defects.
• Risk Assessments: Comprehensive evaluations of potential hazards and development of mitigation strategies.
• Expert Testimony: Providing credible and reliable expert testimony in legal proceedings.

“We don’t just investigate accidents; we help our clients prevent them,” stated the company representative. “Our goal is to create a safer and more reliable rail system for everyone.”

Looking Ahead: The Future of Rail Safety

The rail industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and challenges emerging all the time. Maintaining a strong focus on safety and risk management will be crucial to ensuring the continued success of the industry.

The addition of Matthew Dick to the ESI team positions the firm to play a key role in this effort. His expertise, combined with ESI’s commitment to innovation and proactive risk management, will help to create a safer and more reliable rail system for generations to come.

As one industry observer noted, “The focus is shifting from simply reacting to incidents to anticipating them. Firms like ESI, with their deep expertise and proactive approach, are well-positioned to lead that charge.”

About Engineering Systems Inc. (ESI)

Engineering Systems Inc. (ESI) is a leading forensic engineering and scientific investigation firm providing data-driven insights and multidisciplinary collaboration to address industry and technical challenges. Established in 1987, ESI serves a diverse range of clients across various sectors, including rail, transportation, and infrastructure. For more information, visit [website address].