What does MOW mean??

MOW is, as stated, Maintenace of Way (track)

There are also some others:
T&E - Train and Engine: people that run the trains.
B&B - Bridges and Buildings: build and maintain railroad structures
C&S - Communications and Signals: Radios, telephones, and signals.
MOE - Maintenace of Equipment: car inspectors, locomotive mechinists, etc.

Nick