Volume 5 - 2014

The spring thaw had just gotten underway when Canadian Pacific Magazine joined Gary Wagner, a Southern Region-based track inspector on his rounds. Gary's task on this day was to watch for emerging issues within a segment of his territory, a 147-mile route in southern Minnesota and northern Iowa. Gary started his railroad career with CP predecessor Milwaukee Road in 1979, and has been inspecting and maintaining track ever since. Today, the routes Gary covers include a mix of 40 mph welded rail and 25 mph jointed rail. Problems can emerge at rail joints, culverts, crossings, and just about anywhere else. It's Gary's job to spot troublesome developments before they evolve into major complications.