Registration Is Open for 2026 Women in Rail Conference
Written by Railway Age and RT&S Staff
Railway Age and Railway Track and Structures return to Chicagoland October 6 and 7 for our fourth annual Women in Rail Conference. Registration is now open, and early bird rates are available until August 28.
The event features influential women and allies who are making a significant impact on the freight, passenger and transit rail industry. Over the course of two days at the Hyatt Regency Schaumburg, the conference will include dynamic “fire-side chat” panels, a celebratory awards luncheon, and opportunities to connect with a community of motivated railroaders committed to shaping the future through business transformation.
Top rail industry leaders have already been confirmed, including opening speaker Maryclare Kenney of CSX, and closing speaker Pam Arpin of CPKC.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Railway Age and Railway Track & Structures editors have created a curated program based on community feedback. Sessions will include:
- Advice on building a resilient career despite industry disruptors
- Practical guidance on launching a business or consultancy
- Strategies on how to balance efficiency, cost, and sustainability in modern rail projects
The 2026 event will also feature a highly anticipated breakout session, “Leadership’s New Playbook.”
WHAT 2025 ATTENDEES ARE SAYING
“It was uplifting to see so many women doing well in a predominantly male oriented industry. It is a testament to their work ethic and drive and their stories were both inspiring and refreshing. It was truly a wonderful networking experience. #WomenRock!” – Adrienne Keogh, Procor Limited
“I am extremely grateful I was able to attend the Women in Rail Conference. The sessions about leadership and hearing from my peers in the railroad industry, put my work into perspective for me and I left feeling empowered to do more for my organization.” – Jacqueline Martinez, MTA Metro-North Railroad
WOMEN IN RAIL AWARDS LUNCHEON
During a special celebratory luncheon on Oct. 6, Railway Age, Railway Track and Structures, and International Railway Journal will recognize the achievements of trailblazing railroaders. Awards will be presented to Railway Age’s 2025 Women in Rail honorees, followed up with the honorees of RT&S’ 2026 Women in Rail Engineering and IRJ’s 2026 Women in Rail.
SUPPORTING ORGANIZATIONS
The 2026 Women in Rail Conference has garnered strong industry support with sponsorship from: GATX, Trinity Rail, API, Genesee & Wyoming, and The Greenbrier Companies.
LEARN MORE
Registration is now open, with early reduced rates valid until August 28. For more information on confirmed speakers and to register, visit the event page.
To inquire about sponsorship opportunities, contact Jonathan Chalon at [email protected] or (212) 620-7224.
