Company Overview
Trusted System Integrator with Over Three Decades of Experience
RL Controls is a leading mass transit system integrator with a proven track record of delivering high-quality, reliable solutions for over three decades. Founded in 1991 by principal owner Lena Walsh, we specialize in system integration, custom-manufactured equipment, installations, and ongoing service, earning a reputation for excellence in the industry.
Our success is built on a team of experienced professionals who work closely with federal, state, and local transit agencies, as well as rail and bus manufacturers and OEMs across the U.S. and Canada. Together, we develop and implement cutting-edge, dependable solutions that drive innovation in the transit sector.
Committed to Excellence in Mass Transit Solutions
RL Controls, LLC (RLC) is ISO 9001:2015 certified for the design, integration, installation, service, and support of both vital and non-vital electronic and communications systems for railway and mass transit vehicles and infrastructure.
Exclusively dedicated to mass transit, RL Controls understands the priorities of both transit agencies and their customers. With proven industry experience, technical expertise, and a highly skilled team, we specialize in delivering customized solutions across the entire project lifecycle—regardless of scale.
Driving Growth Through Innovation and Customer Satisfaction
Thanks to our unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and RL Controls’ unique ability to solve even the most complex challenges, we have achieved consistent growth over the past five years. With our expertise and dedication, we are well-positioned to sustain this momentum in the years ahead.
We Are Advanced Solutions for Mass Transit.
Experience, Expertise & Knowledge
With more than 34 years of experience in mass transit, RL Controls brings an interdisciplinary team skilled in every phase of a project. From engineering design and seamless implementation to rigorous testing, commissioning, and ongoing maintenance and warranty support, our experts transform customer needs and conceptual designs into high-quality, resilient systems.
As an engineering-centric company with over 120 employees—75% of whom specialize in engineering or field technical roles—RL Controls is committed to delivering excellence. Certified as a DBE/WBE/SBE in 34 states, our diverse expertise enables us to provide tailored solutions across the entire project lifecycle, regardless of size or complexity. Whether it’s design engineering, installation, or testing, RL Controls is equipped with the industry experience, technical proficiency, and professional versatility to meet every challenge.
RL Controls is an engineering-led company with a team of 120 employees, 75% of whom specialize in engineering or field technical roles. RLC is certified as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Women Business Enterprise (WBE) in 34 states, demonstrating our commitment to diversity and inclusion in the industry.
What is DBE?
A Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) is a company-level diversity certification designed to promote the participation of minority- and women-owned businesses in government contracts. This designation ensures opportunities for underrepresented businesses to contribute to critical infrastructure and transit projects.
What is a WBE?
A Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) is an independent business that is at least 51% owned, managed, and controlled by one or more women who are U.S. citizens. The business must be formed and headquartered in the United States or its territories, with its daily operations directed by one or more of the women owners.
What Does it Mean to Be Certified as a WBE?
Being certified as a WBE signifies that a business has undergone a rigorous and stringent certification process to verify that it is truly woman-owned, managed, and controlled. RL Controls is proud to hold this certification under the leadership of Lena Walsh, whose vision and dedication have earned the company this recognition.
RL Control’s is currently and engineering lead company of 50 employees with 60% of employees in engineering or field technical roles. RLC is certified in 34 states as a DBE/WBE.
What is Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Owned Business?
SBE is a company level diversity certification. SBE certifications are usually issued by the local or state government. Eligibility for certification as a Small Business Enterprise varies depending on the issuer; requirements may relate to number of employees, length of time the company has been in business and the net worth of the company’s owner.
SBE certification is non-industry specific.