Pilbara Rail Maintenance co-founder and director Chris Prior wins 40under40 award

Chris Prior, the co-founder and director of Pilbara Rail Maintenance (PRM), has recently been honoured with the WA Business News 40Under40 Award for 2023.

This award recognises exceptional business leadership and innovation for professionals under the age of 40 who have demonstrated remarkable success in their respective fields.

The award was presented to Mr. Prior during a gala event held at Crown Perth on Friday night, where he was unveiled as one of the 40 winners.

Pilbara Rail Maintenance, a 100% Australian-owned and operated company, provides secure and economical solutions for rail construction, maintenance, and civil services to mining and civil contractors and companies in Australia.

As one of the most prominent privately-owned rail businesses in the country, the company’s management team boasts a combined 50 years of experience in the industry.

They possess a broad range of state-of-the-art specialist rail machinery and civil equipment and a highly skilled workforce capable of managing complex projects.

Mr Prior began his career as a rail technician, working on a FIFO basis, and quickly climbed the ranks to become the Operations Manager at Fluor Corporation.

In 2018, he co-founded Pilbara Rail Maintenance, which has since expanded its operations to service some of the largest mining and construction companies in Australia, including BHP, Rio Tinto, FMG, John Holland, Roy Hill, and Aurizon.

Under Mr Prior’s leadership, the company has experienced remarkable growth and success in just a few short years.

Apart from business success, Mr Prior is also passionate about increasing diversity and participation in the rail industry.

PRM and Red Rock Engineering (RRE) have facilitated the upskilling and employment of dozens of individuals, including local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and women, to obtain the qualifications necessary to become rail technicians.

The company’s efforts have helped create a more diverse and inclusive industry, and they will continue to support local communities in achieving their goals.

Mr Prior expressed his gratitude for the recognition and praised his team’s hard work and dedication, which played an instrumental role in achieving this milestone.

He also affirmed his commitment to delivering exceptional results for clients and communities.

Mr Prior’s leadership, innovation, and commitment to social responsibility make him a deserving recipient of the WA Business News 40Under40 Award, and his accomplishments serve as an inspiration to other young entrepreneurs and business leaders in WA.