Railway Age

LRW "Telling Your Story" Symposium
2025-06-11 08:30 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | Willis Tower, 233 S Wacker Dr., Chicago, IL, 60606, United States
Join the League of Railway Women at the 2025 Symposium — Navigating the Rail Industry: Telling Your Story
Join the LRW for an enlightening and empowering symposium designed to deepen your understanding of the rail industry while enhancing your professional development. This year’s event builds on the success of last year’s symposium, where attendees learned to build their personal brand and explore their career possibilities within the rail sector.
Educational Component: Understanding the Rail Industry
Dive into the intricacies of the rail industry with off-site activities and deep-dives into industry topics.
Professional Development Component: How to Tell Your Story
Building on last year’s theme of personal branding, this year’s professional development sessions will focus on:
• Crafting Your Narrative: Learn techniques to effectively communicate your professional journey and achievements.
• Storytelling for Impact: Understand how to use storytelling to connect with your audience, whether in interviews, presentations, or networking events.
• Interactive Workshop: Participate in a hands-on workshop where you can practice and refine your storytelling skills with feedback from industry experts.

APTA Rail Conference
2025-06-29 08:00 - 2025-07-02 17:00 (America/New_York) | San Francisco Marriott Marquis, 780 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA, 94103, United States
For all rail modes – urban, commuter, high-speed, and intercity – this APTA technical conference presented by HNTB features sessions on technology, operations, maintenance, safety & security, planning, finance, capital projects, workforce development, and more. Experience the latest industry advances at the Products & Services Showcase and join the technical tours.
Who should attend: rail and paratransit system employees and managers, planners, board members, contractors, suppliers, manufacturers, and consultants.

MARS 2025 Summer Meeting
2025-07-08 08:00 - 2025-07-09 17:00 (America/New_York) | Grand Geneva Resort, 7036 Grand Geneva Way, Lake Geneva, WI, 53147, United States
MARS (Midwest Association of Rail Shippers) is excited to return to Grand Geneva Resort in Lake Geneva, Wis., for its 2025 Summer Meeting. It will host its annual Scholarship Golf Outing and opening reception on the first day, July 8, with the business meeting on July 9.
Tuesday, July 8, 2025
MARS Scholarship Golf Outing at 10:00 am
MARS Pickleball Tournament at 10:30 am
MARS Networking Picnic at Noon
Welcome Reception at 6:00 pm
Wednesday, July 9, 2025
Summer Meeting from 8:00 am – 3:00 pm
Featured Speakers
Kevin Boone, Executive Vice President Sales & Chief Commercial Officer CSX
Aaron Girard, Senior Vice President of Logistics, Seneca Foods
Karen Hedlund, Vice Chairman, Surface Transportation Board
John Kennedy, Senior Vice President of Operations, PSC Group
Adam Nordstrom, Founder & Principal, Viking Navigation
John Orr, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Norfolk Southern
David Panjwani, Director, Logistics, Deere & Company
Registration
MARS is one of five regional North American associations under the North American Rail Shippers (NARS) national organization. Headquartered in the Chicago area, MARS provides an open forum for discussion and resolution of rail transportation issues by bringing together railroads, shippers, receivers, and rail supply companies.

2025 Rail & Maritime Summit
2025-07-09 08:00 - 2025-07-10 17:00 (America/New_York) | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL, 60604, United States
Join MEP&A Economic Development for a ½ day summit on global trade highlighting Mexico.

MxV Rail University Days
2025-08-12 - 2025-08-13 | Pueblo Convention Center, 320 Central Main Street, Pueblo, CO, 81003, United States
Explore a career in railroad technology

Engineering Students, Researchers, and Faculty

North America’s railroad industry always strives for the highest standards in safety, efficiency, reliability, and network resiliency – and the next generation of engineers and scientists will continue that quest. MxV Rail’s University Days are free to university students and staff who are interested in exploring opportunities in railroad science.
This 1.5-day event allows participants to learn how MxV Rail’s work shapes the future of rail. The event includes one-on-one interaction with MxV Rail researchers, student presentations, and a tour of our facilities including the new Facility for Accelerated Service Testing (FAST°).
Agenda available soon.

ASLRRA Eastern & Southern Region Meeting
2025-09-09 08:00 - 2025-09-11 17:00 (America/New_York) | Sheraton Charlotte Hotel / Le Meridien Hotel Complex, Charlotte, NC, 28204, United States
ASLRRA’s region meetings offer dynamic agendas with top-notch speakers, compelling interactive sessions, and meaningful takeaways that will benefit professionals at every level of your organization.
The meeting agenda, including panel discussions, keynote speakers, informative subject matter experts, and interactive breakout sessions is curated by the respective region Vice Presidents and elected Board Representatives to reflect the pressures, issues and latest trends in the areas in which they operate.
Educational sessions will provide expert insight into the direction the rail industry is moving related to legislation, regulation, legal precedent, technology, federal grant programs and business development.
In addition to two full days of education, the networking opportunities provided by a region meeting will help attendees elevate their careers, discuss challenges with peers, and develop relationships with industry suppliers.
The President’s Safety Awards winners for the Eastern and Southern Regions will also be honored during a general session.

ASLRRA General Counsel Symposium
2025-09-09 12:00 - 2025-09-10 13:00 (America/New_York) | Sheraton Charlotte Hotel / Le Meridien Hotel Complex, Charlotte, NC, 28204, United States
At the General Counsel Symposium, you’ll connect with legal experts and peers from across the country focusing on railroad law. Presenters will provide critical insights into today’s most pressing issues, emerging trends, and best practices.
This two-day event will enable you to stay ahead of the curve as you navigate the constantly evolving legal landscape.
Join ASLRRA for a dynamic program built to equip today’s short line railroad general counsel with the tools to tackle economic pressures, address emerging technologies, understand regulatory impact, and drive success in an increasingly complex environment.
Once again, ASLRRA will be offering Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Credit for the education sessions and credit hours are estimated to be approximately 7.0 hours for 60-minute states, and 8.4 hours for 50-minute states. And ASLRRA handle all of the paperwork for you!
The General Counsel Symposium is co-located with ASLRRA’s Eastern & Southern Region Meeting, allowing attendees of the General Counsel Symposium to network with railroad and supplier members during breaks and meals.

ASLRRA Finance & Administration Seminar
2025-09-10 | Sheraton Charlotte Hotel / Le Meridien Hotel Complex, Charlotte, NC, 28204, United States
The Finance & Administration Seminar is laser-focused on finance, administration, and human resources professionals navigating the ever-changing railroad industry. Join ASLRRA for this popular event spread across two days, designed to provide leading insights, firsthand experiences, and actionable takeaways on industry hot topics and critical issues.
With content designed specifically for finance, administration, and human resources professionals, and education sessions offering tools, information, and insights from subject matter experts, attendees will gain general and industry-specific knowledge on a range of relevant issues, share best practices, and expand their professional network. Featured topics from prior years include: updates on legislation and regulations related to OSHA, FMLA, ADAAA, FELA, and FRSA; employee recruitment and retention; benefits best practices; payroll and benefits administration; federal grant accounting; overhead and labor costs; employee assistance programs; railroad insurance; sales tax trends; and much more!
The Finance & Administration Seminar is co-located with ASLRRA’s Eastern & Southern Region Meeting and the General Counsel Symposium, allowing attendees to network with railroad and supplier members during breaks and meals.

Fundamentals of Electric Rail Vehicle Systems: Design, Procurement, Operations, and Maintenance
2025-09-29 08:00 - 2025-09-30 17:00 (America/New_York) | SEPTA, 1234 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, United States
Electric rail vehicles are intricate systems that require a deep understanding of electrical, mechanical, and control components to function efficiently and safely. This course covers the full lifecycle of rail vehicles—from initial design and procurement to integration, operations, and long-term maintenance. Participants will gain insights into propulsion, braking, power collection, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance, with a focus on real-world applications and system-wide coordination.
Learning Outcomes:
• Describe the core systems of electric rail vehicles and how they interact, including propulsion, braking, and control.
• Develop a fleet procurement and integration plan that addresses design validation, testing, and cybersecurity.
• Identify key maintenance strategies and regulatory requirements for ensuring long-term vehicle performance and safety.
Who Should Attend:
• Transit engineers, operations personnel, and maintenance staff working in light rail, heavy rail, and commuter rail systems.
• Federal and state regulators, consultants, and administrators involved in rail system oversight and planning.
• Equipment manufacturers, systems suppliers, and project managers engaged in rail vehicle design and integration.

INNOVATION TRACK – A New Era for Transportation
2025-10-08 08:00 - 09:45 (America/New_York) | District Winery, 385 Water Street Southeast, DC, United States
The future of transportation takes center stage in Washington on October 8th, as Widehall, in partnership with the Association of American Railroads, convenes industry leaders and policy makers to chart a smarter path forward. This high-level forum will spotlight policies and innovations that position the industry to adapt, compete, and deliver on national priorities—from economic growth to workforce development to environmental sustainability.
Discussions will look beyond narrow regulatory debates to the real drivers of progress. Artificial intelligence, automation, and digital platforms are reshaping operations, unlocking efficiency, and fueling long-term competitiveness. At the same time, strategic investment and public-private partnerships are strengthening the sector’s critical role in global supply chains and positioning it to meet the demands of tomorrow.

2025 AASHTO Council on Rail Transportation Annual Meeting
2025-10-20 - 2025-10-23 | Hilton Minneapolis, 1001 South Marquette Avenue, Minneapolis, MN, 55403, United States
AASHTO’s Council on Rail Transportation Annual Meeting (CORT Annual Meeting), October 20-22, offers members and stakeholders the opportunity to participate in peer exchanges and technical sessions focused on freight and passenger rail. As the demand for freight and passenger rail evolves at both the state and regional levels, this meeting provides an opportunity to engage with federal, state, and industry leaders, enabling the exchange of information on issues essential to maintaining a robust rail system.
Registration for the CORT Annual Meeting, including the States for Passenger Rail Committee (SPRC) meeting on October 20, is available by clicking the “Register Now” button above.
The State-Amtrak Intercity Passenger Rail Committee (SAIPRC) Meeting takes place on Thursday, October 23.
Registration for the SAIPRC meeting is managed separately by SAIPRC and is not included in the CORT Annual Meeting registration.
To attend the SAIPRC meeting, you must register through SAIPRC directly. If you have any questions, contact Barley Fields by email at bfields@aashto.org and by phone at 832-515-6626.

Electrified Rail Systems: Traction Power and Overhead Contact Systems Fundamentals
2025-10-21 08:00 - 2025-10-23 17:00 (America/New_York) | Pyle Center, 702 Langdon Street, Madison, WI, 53706, United States
Participants will receive a thorough introduction to the key concepts and components of rail traction power and overhead contact systems. The curriculum covers applicable design standards, traction power substation and distribution system design, and load flow simulation methods for AC and DC systems. Additionally, the course includes topics on wayside energy storage systems, substation grounding, and automation/control.

Learning Outcomes:
• Understand applicable design and equipment standards, guide documents, and technical reference materials.
• Learn the fundamentals of traction power substation, distribution system, and overhead contact system design, construction, and operation.
• Master traction power load flow simulation methods, input requirements, and available software for AC and DC traction power systems.

Who Should Attend:
• Railroad engineers and managers responsible for the design, construction, and maintenance of railway systems, ensuring safe and efficient operations.
• Qualified engineering technicians and track supervisors overseeing the implementation of railway projects and ensuring compliance with industry standards.
• Organizational leaders seeking to build bench strength and fill holes in succession planning.

Location: Madison, WI, or Live Online.

Fundamentals of Railway Train Control and Signaling
2025-10-28 08:00 - 2025-10-29 17:00 (America/New_York) | Pyle Center, 702 Langdon Street, Madison, WI, 53706, United States
This entry-level course introduces the architecture, function, and safety principles of railway signaling and control systems. Participants will explore key technologies such as track circuits, traffic control systems, and PTC, while gaining insight into industry standards and regulatory requirements. Through practical examples and system diagrams, learners will build a working knowledge of how signaling systems are designed, implemented, and maintained.

Learning Outcomes:
• Understand the core components and functions of railway signaling systems, including interlockings, track circuits, and block signal layouts.
• Analyze the role of Positive Train Control (PTC) technologies and their regulatory context, including IETMS, ACSES II, and ITCS.
• Apply basic electrical and safety principles to evaluate and interpret signaling system designs and operations.

Who Should Attend:
• Entry-level engineers and technicians working in or transitioning to the railway industry.
• Project managers and consultants involved in rail infrastructure, safety, or operations.
• Professionals in adjacent fields seeking foundational knowledge of train control and signaling systems.

Location: Madison, WI, or Live Online.

Railroads Reimagined: Webinar on the Proposed UP–NS Merger and Its Supply Chain Implications
2025-10-28 12:00 (America/New_York) | MO
Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern have announced plans for a transformative merger that would create the first transcontinental railroad in the United States. The announcement is already sparking widespread discussion across the freight and logistics sectors. Join a Michigan State University-sponsored Lunch and Learn webinar led by Jason Miller, Eli Broad Professor of Supply Chain Management, a leading voice in supply chain management, as he explores the broader context surrounding this proposed merger. The session will cover key aspects such as intermodal trends, carload volumes, and railroad pricing, offering insights into how this development could reshape freight movement, market dynamics, and strategic planning for supply chain professionals. Whether you’re in operations, procurement, or transportation strategy, this webinar will help you understand the potential ripple effects and prepare for what’s ahead.

NARBW Chicago Centennial Celebration
2025-11-01 08:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Palos Hills Country Club, 13100 Southwest Highway, Orland Park, IL, 60462, United States
The Chicago Chapter of the National Association of Railway Business Women (NARBW) is marking 100 years of empowering women in rail with a celebration, to be held Nov. 1 at the Palos Hills Country Club in Orland Park, Ill. The event will feature a cocktail reception from 6 p.m.–7 p.m., a commemorative program, dinner and dancing from 7 p.m.–10:30 p.m., and opportunities to connect with industry colleagues, family, and friends.
NARBW Chicago tells Railway Age:
“In the early 20th century, women working in rail offices were often excluded from professional spaces and advancement opportunities. One defining moment came when Hazel Cornell saw a sign at Chicago Union Depot that read “FOR RAILROAD MEN ONLY.” In response, she co-founded what would become the NARBW—creating a space where women in rail could find support, recognition, and community. Her vision sparked a movement that continues today in chapters across the country.
“Founded in 1925 as the second NARBW chapter, the Chicago Chapter has been a driving force for mentorship, leadership, and lifelong friendships. Once nearly 1,000 members strong, the chapter faced steep decline as rail jobs shifted. But in 2015, a small group of determined women reignited its legacy. Today, with more than 50 active members, the chapter continues to thrive.
“NARBW’s motto—Connecting, Learning & Giving—is more than words; it’s a lived experience in Chicago. The chapter hosts guest speakers and social events that foster connection and growth, offers a scholarship program to support learning, and engages in community service projects that reflect a spirit of giving. From professional development to charitable outreach, the Chicago Chapter embodies the values that have guided NARBW for a century.”
“This centennial is more than a celebration—it’s a tribute to the resilience, leadership and camaraderie that define our chapter,” says Jasmine Manley, President of the Chicago Chapter. “We’re excited to honor our legacy and look ahead to the next 100 years.”
Following are the details for the Centennial Celebration:
• Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025
• Palos Hills Country Club, 13100 Southwest Highway, Orland Park, Ill.
• $100 per guest (includes dinner, dancing, and open bar).
—Pay via Zelle/PayPal: narbwchicagotreasurer@gmail.com (reference “100th ANNV” and include your cell number in the memo section)
• Coming from out of town? Stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Chicago – Alsip: 5000 West 127th Street, Alsip, Ill. 60803.
—Group Code: NAR
—Rate: $157.07 per night
—Dates: Oct. 31–Nov. 1. Book by Sept. 30.
—Free shuttle to/from Midway Airport (advance request required).
NARBW is a supporting organization for the 2025 Railway Age / RT&S Women in Rail Conference, to be held Oct. 15-16 at the Hyatt Regency Schaumburg in Schaumburg, Ill.

ASLRRA Central & Pacific Region Meeting
2025-11-03 08:00 - 2025-11-05 17:00 (America/New_York) | Hyatt Regency New Orleans, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA, 70113, United States
ASLRRA’s region meetings offer dynamic agendas with top-notch speakers, compelling interactive sessions, and meaningful takeaways that will benefit professionals at every level of your organization.
The meeting agenda, including panel discussions, keynote speakers, informative subject matter experts, and interactive breakout sessions is curated by the respective region Vice Presidents and elected Board Representatives to reflect the pressures, issues and latest trends in the areas in which they operate.
Educational sessions will provide expert insight into the direction the rail industry is moving related to legislation, regulation, legal precedent, technology, federal grant programs and business development.
In addition to two full days of education, the networking opportunities provided by a region meeting will help attendees elevate their careers, discuss challenges with peers, and develop relationships with industry suppliers.
Don’t miss the opportunity to network on the links at the Jack Nicklaus-designed Signature Course at English Turn Golf & Country Club on Wednesday November 5 — add this option to your registration.
The President’s Safety Awards winners for the Central and Pacific Regions will also be honored during a general session.

2025 Commuter Rail Summit
2025-11-03 08:30 - 2025-11-05 17:00 (America/New_York) | Yotel on Capitol Hill (formerly The Liaison), 415 New Jersey Avenue NW, District Of Columbia, DC, 20001, United States
Join thought leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the industry as the Commuter Rail Coalition convenes the 2025 Commuter Rail Summit.
The commuter rail industry will convene in Washington DC November 3 – 5, 2025 for round table discussions, fireside chats with industry leaders, technical tours and next-level networking to prepare for both the challenges and the unprecedented opportunities awaiting commuter railroads.
The CRC Summit is the opportunity to connect with industry peers in an intimate setting, to explore new ideas, and collaborate over today’s most pressing commuter rail issues.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
• Agency CEOs, Deputies, CXOs
• Operations, Safety, Marketing and Public/Government Affairs team members
• OEMs, suppliers, consultants, contractors and other commuter rail allies.
Registration fees for the 2025 Commuter Rail Summit are inclusive of:
—Monday night’s Welcome Reception in the Gold Room on Capitol Hill (sponsored by DB E.C.O. North America)
—Tuesday evening’s Cocktail Hour and Champion of Commuter Rail Awards Dinner in the Great Hall of the Library of Congress (Cocktails sponsored by Tracsis)
—Breakfast, lunch and breaks Tuesday and Wednesday
—Technical Tours with VRE and MARC
Registration will be limited to 225 guests. All registrations must be completed in advance: due to capacity constraints there will be no on-site registrations for this event.
CRC Members: $795 before August 15/$925 after
Non-Members: $1,200, as capacity allows after September 10.
A la Carte Pricing: Even If you are not attending the full conference, you may join us for the evening events by purchasing individual tickets:
—Monday’s Welcome Reception: $75 Members/$85 Non-Members
—Tuesday Evening’s Cocktail Hour & Awards Dinner $275/$325
(Both of these events are included in full registration rate; no need to “double book.”)
Change of plans?
Transfer your registration to a colleague at no cost through October 24. A $50 administrative fee applies for cancellations received by October 10; 50% thereafter.

Introduction to Railroad Engineering and Operations
2025-11-17 08:00 - 2025-11-18 17:00 (America/New_York) | Pyle Center, 702 Langdon Street, Madison, WI, 53706, United States
This course provides a broad yet detailed overview of the railroad industry, including its history, infrastructure, and operational systems. Participants will explore key topics such as track structure, special trackwork, bridges, signals, and operations planning, with a focus on both design and maintenance. Whether you’re a consultant, engineer, agency staff member, or supplier, this course equips you with the technical fluency to contribute effectively to rail projects and operations.
Learning Outcomes:
• Understand the components and functions of rail infrastructure, including track structure, alignment, and special trackwork.
• Interpret railroad operations planning tools such as track charts, signal systems, and scheduling models.
• Apply knowledge of regulatory frameworks, bridge management, and positive train control to real-world rail scenarios.
Who Should Attend:
• Consultants, contractors, and suppliers working on rail-related projects.
• Local, state, and federal officials involved in transportation planning or oversight.
• Railroad employees and transit agency staff seeking a technical introduction to rail systems.
Location: Madison, WI, or Live Online.

2025 Joint Conference | Rail Research Week
2025-11-17 08:00 - 2025-11-21 17:00 (America/New_York) | The Broadmoor, 1 Lake Avenue, Colorado Springs, 80906, United States
Rail Research Week 2025, organized by Informa Connect and hosted by MxV Rail, is dedicated to advancing rail research and fostering collaboration within the rail industry.
For the first time in history, the International Heavy Haul Association Conference (IHHA 2025) and the World Congress on Railway Research (WCRR 2025) will run concurrently at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs in 2025. Addressing the 2025 theme, Inspiring innovative and resilient railways, this unique and historic joint conference experience will be celebrated under the Rail Research Week event banner.
Researchers, practitioners, and industry experts from around the globe are invited to submit their abstracts and share their cutting-edge work with a diverse audience of professionals. This is an opportunity to present research that addresses current challenges, explores emerging technologies, and contributes to the future of rail transport.
Key Details for Abstract Submission:
• Submission Deadline: October 18, 2024
• Submission Portal: https://ihha-wcrr.awardsplatform.com/
• Notification of Acceptance: January 2025
• Full papers to be provided for review: June 2025
We encourage submissions on a wide range of topics, including but not limited to:
• Innovations in rail infrastructure and technology
• Enhancements in rail safety and security measures
• Sustainable practices and environmental considerations
• Advances in passenger and freight rail systems
• Emerging trends and policy implications in rail transportation
To submit an abstract, visit our submission portal at https://ihha-wcrr.awardsplatform.com/. Our panel of experts will review all submitted abstracts, ensuring a high-quality program that reflects the latest advancements in rail research.
Rail Research Week 2025 will feature keynote addresses from industry leaders, interactive sessions, and ample networking opportunities. We are committed to creating a vibrant forum for knowledge exchange and collaboration, driving the future of rail transportation.
For more information about abstract submissions, conference details, and registration, please visit https://railresearchweek.com/ or contact us at ihha.wcrr@informa.com.
Contact: Niki Toussaint, Senior AVP Marketing & Education, niki_toussaint@aar.com, 719-671-8676; Anthony Anemogiannis, Marketing Director – Informa Connect Australia, Rail Research Week 2025 Organizing Committee, anthony.anemogiannis@informa.com.au, https://railresearchweek.com/

APTA Winter Legislative Meeting and Capitol Hill Holiday Reception
2025-12-04 08:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Union Station, 50 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE, NE, WASHINGTON, DC, DC, 20002, United States
The meeting will be held in the East Hall of Union Station in Washington, DC, starting at 2:00 p.m. The reception will follow in the Presidential Suite in Union Station from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Registration is free.

APTA Safety & Risk Management Seminar
2025-12-07 08:00 - 2025-12-10 17:00 (America/New_York) | The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, 910 Broadway Circle, San Diego, CA, 92101, United States
Join industry leading transit Risk Manager and Safety Professionals when APTA hosts a thought-provoking seminar with special tracks for transit Risk Management Professionals and Safety Professionals.
About the APTA Safety Seminar
The APTA Safety Seminar provides an opportunity for Safety Professionals in public transportation to discuss pertinent safety issues as well as learn from Federal and State partners, network, and gain important knowledge on safety issues. By participating in this event, it is a great opportunity to learn from our Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) partners on recently passed final safety rules and regulations, federal oversight, and technical assistance programs.
Furthermore, at the seminar, best practices will be shared by transit and rail agencies as well as business members throughout the country in regard to Safety Management Systems (SMS), Safety and Security Certification, Battery Electric and Hydrogen Fuel Bus Safety, Operator and Transit Worker Assaults, APTA Standards and Recommended Practices, Cybersecurity, the Unhoused Community, Community, Collision Avoidance, and Trespassing and Grade Crossing Safety Awareness. The agenda includes speakers and presenters who are leaders in the fields of bus and rail operations and maintenance safety, training, research, and safety management/oversight.
Who should attend: Transit agency chief safety officers, directors, and managers; bus and rail operations and maintenance safety staff, APTA Business Members (including safety engineering/software/technology firms, manufacturers, consultants and contractors); state safety oversight staff; and federal and state partners (including but not limited to FTA, FRA, NTSB, and TSA).
About the APTA Risk Management Seminar
This is the only Risk Management Seminar specifically designed for risk management professionals involved in transit risk management. The seminar is intended to bring presentations and speakers to our industry specialists that will focus on workers’ compensation, insurance updates, emerging technology, environmental exposures, post-covid practices, and battery electrical bus fires.
Who should attend: Risk Managers, claims/safety/security officers and professionals, insurance underwriting professionals, insurance brokers and suppliers of products and services relevant to the risk management industry.

NRC 2026 Conference & NRC-REMSA Exhibition
2026-01-07 08:00 - 2026-01-10 17:00 (America/New_York) | The Diplomat Resort & Spa, Hollywood, United States
The 2026 National Railroad Construction and Maintenance Association (NRC) Annual Conference and NRC-Railway Engineering-Maintenance Suppliers Association (REMSA) Exhibition will take place at The Diplomat Resort & Spa in Hollywood, Florida.
‍Learn. Network. Advocate. Kick off the year on the right track at the railway construction’s premier event. The annual NRC Conference features a unique program agenda with chief engineers from the major freight railroads and other key speakers covering up-to-date topics of importance to the rail industry. Typical topics include:
• Class I and Regional Railroad Capital Spending Plans
• Rail Projects of National Significance
• Commuter Rail and Transit Contracting
• Railroad Construction Safety
• Panel Discussions on Signals & Communications, Rail Sustainability and Government Affairs
NRC
Conference Contact
Marian Barreto
Phone: 202-975-0365
Email: mbarreto@nrcma.org
REMSA
Exhibition Contact
Heidi Baker
Phone: 202-844-6126
Email: baker@remsa.org
The NRC has secured a room block for conference attendees at The Diplomat; a link to register at the conference rate will be provided after you register for the conference. If you have questions about the hotel room block, please email Marian Barreto at mbarreto@nrcma.org.

MARS 2026 Winter Meeting
2026-01-13 08:00 - 2026-01-15 17:00 (America/New_York) | Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg, 60173, United States
The Midwest Association of Rail Shippers is headquartered in the Chicago area. General membership comes from the states of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin, as well as the provinces of Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
Its objective is to provide an open forum for resolving transportation and car supply problems, coupled with programs designed to educate and inform the membership in areas of railroad operating practices, new innovations in transportation and legislative matters. Meetings are held twice a year, in January and July.

APTA Business Members Annual Meeting
2026-01-27 08:00 - 2026-01-30 17:00 (America/New_York) | Marriott Savannah Riverfront, 100 General McIntosh Boulevard, Savannah, GA, 31401, United States
UPDATE:
APTA Business Members Annual Meeting Postponed
Your safety is our top priority. With Winter Storm Fern expected to bring dangerous cold, snow, and ice across much of the country—and with multiple states, including Georgia, declaring a State of Emergency—we have made the difficult decision to postpone APTA’s 2026 Business Members Annual Meeting.
We know this news is disappointing. However, widespread travel hazards and official safety warnings make it impossible to move forward responsibly. Protecting the well-being of our members comes first.
Next Steps
New Date: We are actively working with the venue to identify a new meeting date and will share an update as soon as it is confirmed.
Refunds: Please hold off on requesting refunds until the new date is announced. This will help us streamline the process once scheduling is finalized.
Our Guarantee: If you are unable to attend once the new date is announced, you will be eligible for a full refund or credit toward a future event, your choice.
Hotel & Travel Information
If you booked a room at the Marriott Savannah Riverfront, your reservation will be automatically canceled—no action required.
If you booked lodging elsewhere, please cancel directly with that property.
Most airlines are currently offering change-fee waivers due to the storm.
Stay Safe
Thank you for your understanding and for being part of the APTA community. Please continue to monitor local guidance and stay warm and safe.

Railroads Reimagined: Owning the Shift - How to Lead When the Ground Moves
2026-02-03 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Webinar
Webinar:
Change is inevitable, but how you respond defines your leadership. Join Kari Gonzales, President & CEO of MxV Rail, as she shares hard-earned lessons from leading one of the most complex transformations in her organization’s history. Discover five practical principles to help you move from reacting to change to driving it: clarity of vision, putting people first, communicating relentlessly, acting with agility, and building a culture that makes change stick. Packed with real stories and actionable insights, this session will equip you to lead confidently when the ground starts to shift.
Center For Railway Research and Education
Eli Broad College of Business
Michigan State University

38th Annual AAR Quality Assurance Industry Conference
2026-02-17 - 2026-02-19 | Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront, 333 1st St SE, Saint Petersburg, FL, 33701-4342, United States
The 38th Annual AAR Quality Assurance Industry Conference is an annual event for anyone interested in learning more about the AAR Quality Program and AAR Auditor training process. The AAR Quality Assurance Committee (QAC) seeks to improve the conference based on recommendations from QAC members, AAR Auditors, and previous conference attendees. The QAC’s mission includes ensuring that AAR auditors are well-trained, with the goal of improving audit consistency, auditing practices, and knowledge of the M-1003 standard. Further, the conference is typically attended by over 300 railroad professionals, creating an excellent opportunity to meet and network with representatives across the industry.
These featured sessions will be presented by AAR QAC members and railway industry professionals:
—New 2026 M-1003 Revisions
—AAR Quality Assurance Committee Q&A Sessions
—AAR Technical Committee Updates
—Emerging Railway Technologies
—Featured Industry Speakers
—Direction of the M-1003 Program
—Tank Car Committee Update
—Federal Railroad Administration
—Railway Supply Institute
—Workshops (TBA)

Rail Equipment Finance Conference 2026
2026-03-01 - 2026-03-04 | La Quinta Resort & Club, 49-499 Eisenhower Drive, La Quinta, CA, 92253, United States
Save the Date: March 1-4, 2026
La Quinta Resort & Club, La Quinta, CA

AREMA 2026 Communication Signals and Information Technology Symposium
2026-03-03 08:00 - 2026-03-05 17:00 (America/New_York) | Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront, 225 E Coastline Drive, Jacksonville, FL, 32202, United States
Join us for a two-day journey through the evolution of Communications, Signals & Information Technology in the rail industry:
—Past: Revisit the core principles and enduring practices that form the backbone of today’s systems.
—Present: See how railroads and suppliers are innovating in real time—enhancing systems, streamlining processes, and transforming operations.
—Future: Explore cutting-edge technologies on the horizon, their potential to reshape the industry, and the challenges we must overcome to bring them to life.

Railroad Day 2026
2026-03-04 | Washington, D.C.
For nearly 200 years, America’s freight railroads have been a key driver of America’s economic development, linking businesses across the country and around the globe.
Operating across 49 states and Washington, D.C., railroads form a vital national network, moving goods essential to the economy and daily life. They transport intermodal containers, chemicals, agricultural products, autos, construction materials, pulp, paper, and energy resources like ethanol, crude oil, and coal.
To keep America’s freight moving, the industry needs strong public policies that help railroads invest in infrastructure, improve safety, and create value for our customers.
Join us on March 4, when the freight railroading industry comes to Washington to meet with hundreds of congressional offices!
Constituents are key to helping elected officials understand the issues at hand, and our industry’s priorities as Congress begins to deliberate the Surface Transportation Reauthorization bill, tax issues, and bigger trucks.
Participating associations: ASLRRA, AAR, RSSI, RTA, NRC, RSI, REMSA, and GORAIL.
Questions? E-mail railroadday@aslrra.org.

APTA Legal Affairs Seminar
2026-03-15 08:00 - 2026-03-17 17:00 (America/New_York) | The Notary Hotel, 21 North Juniper Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, United States
The Legal Affairs Seminar provides up-to-date information on regulatory/legislative developments, industry-related litigation, and other legal issues affecting the transit industry. Many of the sessions will provide continuing legal education credits.
APTA expects to hear from the Federal Transit Administration on issues for the coming year.
Who should attend: Attorneys representing all APTA members.
