John J. Spellman, P.E., M.I.R.S.E. Principal Engineer
John J. Spellman joined Rio Grande Pacific Technology (RIOTECH) in November 2018 through the acquisition of Innovative Solutions in Signaling. A professionally licensed electrical engineer in six states, John is a principal signal engineer in domestic projects for heavy and light rail transit lines, Class I freight railroads, commuter rail, streetcar systems, and regional and short line railroads.
Prior to RIOTECH, John served 14 years as partner and Vice President of Innovative Solutions in Signaling Consultants, LLC. He began his career in railroad signaling as an applications engineer for Harmon Electronics in 1995. Notable project achievements include lead engineer roles in Los Angeles Metro Gold Line (LA to Pasadena), Cromer Resignalling Project in the United Kingdom, Denton County Commuter (DCTA), Port of Los Angeles Berth 200, Valley Metro Mesa Extension (Phoenix), Louisville & Indiana Railroad/ CSX upgrade project and continuing systems consultant role with the Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension Construction Authority for the Phase 2A extension to Azusa now progressing to Phase 2B east to Montclair.
John received his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Louisville JB Speed Scientific School. He is a leader in the rail community serving on AREMA Committee 36 and a charter member of the IRSE’s North American Chapter.