(The following story appeared on the New Mexico Business Weekly website on January 19.)
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Acme Worldwide Enterprises Inc. of Albuquerque has been awarded a $1.1 million U.S. Department of Transportation contract to build locomotive simulators.
The contract’s value could rise to $1.7 million if all options are exercised, U.S. Rep. Heather Wilson, R-N.M., said in a news release.
The two simulators will be built in Albuquerque and will be used by the U.S. Army for locomotive engineer qualification and refresher training, and for railroad safety research by the Federal Railroad Administration, Wilson said.
Wilson added that Albuquerque business owners have been optimistic about the economy in recent months.
“Each report of economic growth is good to hear, and I’m encouraged by upbeat reports of new jobs, equipment and facilities from Albuquerque business owners in recent months,” Wilson said. “Small businesses start with a dream and are the engine driving our economy.
Acme is a 9-year-old Albuquerque company that builds flight simulators and aircraft training devices. Company President Randall Gurule said the new contract will allow the firm to expand its business into the railroad industry.