Cranemasters Marks 40 Years in Railroad Services

October 8, 2026 - Cranemasters is marking 40 years in business as a railroad contractor serving Class I, regional, and short-line railroads, as well as industrial customers.

The company was founded in Richmond, Virginia, on October 10, 1986, by two brothers and their father. The company initially focused on derailment services before expanding into additional railroad services, equipment, and system operations.

Today, Cranemasters operates 10 divisions across the country and provides 24/7/365 service nationwide, according to the company.

“Forty years in business is a milestone that not many companies reach,” says Aaron Braithwaite, vice president of strategic operations at Cranemasters. “Our long-term success would not be possible without the strong relationships we’ve built with our customers and clients, as well as the strength of our team. Every member of our team brings exceptional quality, expertise, and integrity to every project we undertake, and that commitment is what makes milestones like this one possible. We’re incredibly proud to celebrate 40 years and look forward to what’s ahead.”

Cranemasters provides construction, maintenance, emergency response, and specialized railroad services. Its customers include Class I railroads, regional and short-line railroads, and private industrial railway siding operations.

The company said its work has been recognized through industry awards and letters of appreciation. Listed awards include the 2019 Field Services Directors Award, the 2022 CSX Hazardous Materials Contractor of the Year Award, the 2023 Dedication to Safety Award, and the 2025 Emergency Response Award for Field Service management.

The company began as a family-owned operation with two cranes and has expanded its services and operations during its four decades in business.