Elaina Hodges embarked on her journey at Amsted Rail with a clear vision of what she wanted in her career. Thanks to internship experience during college, she knew after graduation she wanted to work in a foundry, and she knew that company culture was very important.
Elaina originally joined Amsted Rail as a Metallurgist, and over the next five years transitioned to the role of Quality Engineer, where she focuses on maintaining and improving the plant’s quality system. This involves conducting audits, preparing for external assessments and managing corrective actions.
As a core member of the quality team, Elaina navigates the ever-changing landscape of industry standards and internal processes head-on. She embraces change rather than resisting it, which aids in a culture of flexibility and resilience within her team.
In a mainly supportive role, Elaina serves as a catalyst for improvement, orchestrating collaborative efforts to enhance both processes and products. Her knack for organization and effective communication ensures that her team remains aligned and focused on achieving their objectives.
“I’m motivated by my team, a curiosity to learn how things work and are connected, and the desire to get things done right.”
Throughout her various positions at Amsted Rail, Elaina has always sought out opportunities for learning and development, earning certifications and delving into diverse domains such as metallurgy, quality assurance and process optimization. Her multifaceted expertise not only bolsters her professional growth but also enriches her understanding of the business.
Looking ahead, Elaina is excited about upcoming projects and the addition of new talent to the team, recognizing the pivotal role that collaboration and shared values play in shaping the company’s future. For Elaina, the essence of Amsted Rail’s appeal lies in its people and their collective dedication to excellence. As the company continues to evolve, she remains steadfast in her commitment to learning from others and embracing the wealth of knowledge available within the organization.
At Amsted Rail, we take pride in our rich culture of innovation and ownership that has propelled us to the forefront of the industry. Our employees are our greatest asset, and we are committed to creating a work environment that offers everyone the chance for success, growth and happiness—on and off the job.