Engineer Ariella Wolfson: Ensuring Safety at Israel Railways with Precision and Care

Ariella Wolfson, an engineer at Israel Railways, is dedicated to ensuring the safety of one of the country’s most vital forms of transportation. Working in the company’s headquarters in Lod, Wolfson has been responsible for inspecting and maintaining Israel’s railway tracks, a critical job that impacts the safety of thousands of commuters every day. "I would say that my job is even more technical than many in the hi-tech industry," she says. Before making aliyah nine years ago, Wolfson worked for Amtrak in New York, but her love for Israel and her passion for engineering brought her to her current role.

As part of the track control department, Wolfson uses advanced technology to detect and classify defects in the rails. Every seven weeks, Israel Railways inspects every kilometer of track for geometry defects and twice a year for visual flaws. With trains heavily loaded in cities like Tel Aviv and Haifa, Wolfson explains the importance of maintaining optimal track quality for safety.

Most of Israel’s railroad tracks are imported from France, welded into sections 18 meters apart. These welds often require the most maintenance, and Wolfson ensures that all repairs meet the highest safety standards. "We need to maintain the track so that it stays at the optimal quality for safety and according to our standards," she says.

One of the few female engineers at Israel Railways, and the only woman in her department, Wolfson balances her role with being a mother of three boys. "People are often surprised to see a woman in this field, especially a mother. But women can thrive in engineering, especially in a field like railroad engineering that requires attention to detail and the ability to connect the dots," Wolfson says.

Wolfson's ability to think holistically has proven invaluable in her role, allowing her to anticipate issues across multiple tracks. “If something happens on one track, it could also affect the one next to it, and we’ll inspect both,” she explains. Her dedication to safety and precision ensures that no stone is left unturned when it comes to the integrity of the rails.

Technological advancements are at the forefront of Israel Railways, and Wolfson is excited about the future. "We are improving the video systems, geometry systems, and implementing AI technology," she says. These upgrades are part of the broader modernization efforts, which include the development of new electric trains and advanced signaling systems.

New lines, like the one connecting Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, have also introduced challenges that require innovative solutions. “Maintaining these new lines, which are composed mostly of bridges and tunnels, requires technology we’ve never had before," Wolfson says. The planned Route 431 line, connecting Tel Aviv and Rishon LeZion to Modi’in and Jerusalem, will feature bridges that further push the technological envelope.

Wolfson’s sense of purpose has only deepened since the onset of the Israel-Hamas war. With many of her colleagues called to reserve duty, she took on additional responsibilities, keeping operations running smoothly. “It was a culture shock for me," she says, reflecting on how quiet the office became. “But it’s meaningful to be the one ensuring safety, especially now.”

Wolfson takes great pride in her work, knowing that her role directly affects the lives of those who rely on Israel’s rail system. "Transportation is a huge part of our country," she says. "Being part of Israel Railways, especially as an American who made aliyah, makes this work even more meaningful. I feel like I’m contributing to something essential for Israel."

Israel Railways continues to grow, modernize, and expand, and Wolfson’s dedication to safety and innovation plays a key role in its success. Her work is a testament to the vital contributions of women in engineering, and her story highlights the importance of ensuring that every journey across Israel’s tracks is as safe as possible.

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