Education Sessions

A fast-paced case study on BERX’s urgent embankment repair, this session distills how streamlined environmental permitting, tight railroad–consultant–contractor coordination, and the strategic use of higher-quality shot rock cut timelines and boosted resilience. Attendees will gain practical, replicable tactics to expedite approvals, align stakeholders, and leverage quarry partnerships for faster, more effective embankment repairs — without sacrificing compliance or performance.

Moderator: Lucas Brewer, National Practice Lead/Freight Rail, Colliers Engineering & Design

Speaker(s): Allison Robinson, Business Development Manager, Colliers Engineering & Design; Blake Gullet, Roadmaster, Berkshire and Eastern Railroad

A discussion on findings when teams do a record review, which includes: training records and programs, credible reports and actions taken and Hours of Service

Moderator: Arthur Chandler, Vice President of Engineering, Pinsley Railroad Company

Speaker(s): Brandon Snyder, District 3 STCC Supervisory Specialist, FRA; Scott Johnson, Part 236 Subject Matter Expert, FRA

The National Steel Bridge Alliance (NSBA) along with Fry Technical Services (FTS) is developing a cost competitive steel bridge concept for span lengths ranging from 30 to 60 feet to provide railroads with an option to concrete. The superstructure consists of rolled steel beams or plate girders, and a steel plate ballasted deck accommodating a single track and walkways on the ballasted deck. A prototype span has been constructed at MxV Rail in Pueblo, CO and undergoing full scale testing.

Moderator: Michael Atzert, Rail Project Manager, Burns & McDonnel

Speaker(s): Anthony Peterson, PE, Senior Steel Bridge Specialist, National Steel Bridge Specialist

With RMMs invloved in multiple RWP fatalitis, the FAMES Committee developed the RMM Talking Points 1234 and taken the information to the field. Learn mor about the talking points and how your railroad can get involved.

Moderator: JR Gelnar, Vice President, Safety and Compliance, ASLRRA

Speaker(s): Cory Johnson, Railroad Safety Specialist – Part 246, FRA; Tim Presser, 214 Hq. Specialist, FRA

Tools to help adapt to climate change for rail infrastructure.

Speaker(s): Ruby Li, Acting Staff Director for Data Analysis and GIS Division, FRA

AI technologies are helping railroads become smarter, greener, and more efficient by optimizing operations, reducing waste, and improving safety. These innovations support use of AI for flood risk identification, wayside inspection, etc.

Speaker(s): Jason Smeak, AVP, Global Supply Chain & Logistics, AECOM; Pete Scholtens, Sales, Intregrity Rail Products

Multiple Federal Agencies have jurisdiction over various aspects of Transloading, understanding which agency regulates what ad how will help you ensure compliance.

Speaker(s): Kayden Howard, SVP - Health, Safety, and Environmental Programs, Omnitrax; Brent Shields, SVP of Environmental, Health, and Safety, Watco; Mitchell Goetz; Railroad Safety Specialist, Hazardous Materials; FRA

NEPA Streamlining This presentation will review the current state of NEPA and the FRA’s implementation plan. As well, we will discuss how these updates are affecting CRISI and other loan programs. Featured along with this will be some lessons learned from the past regarding:

• Project vetting for potential critical issues
• Early development of NEPA and coordination with FRA staff
• Potential Section 106 complications
• Consolidation of similar projects

Speaker(s): Peter Masson, Director, Planning, Permitting and Licensing, TRC Companies, Inc.

Climb aboard for an engaging look at the unique challenges and insights of payroll in the rail industry — complete with interactive trivia and fun prizes!

Speaker(s): Ashley Wilson, Senior HCM Consultant, Coastal Payroll; Laura Lone, HCM Consultant, Coastal Payroll; Chelsea Sweet, Outsourced Controller/Railroad Specialist, Bowers CPAs

Discussion re: current economic conditions, trends and outlook, making complex data clear and actionable for
decision-making.

Speaker(s): Mike Hochholzer, CFA, EVP, Chief Trust Investment Officer, Associate Bank Private Wealth

This session covers a range of finance issues impacting railroads and shaping today’s business environment, offering practical insights and real-world perspectives.

Speaker(s): Joe Mocciaro, Managing Partner, Bowers CPAs

Ethics can be especially challenging in railroad operations, where safety-critical work, regulatory compliance, employee retention, and public trust demand consistent ethical decision-making. Learn best practices for preventing misuse of company resources, avoiding nepotism and conflicts of interest, developing and enforcing a code of conduct, implementing training for supervisors and employees, and creating safe channels for reporting concerns through real scenarios and lively discussion from our panel and the audience.

Speaker(s): Colleen Helenhouse, Attorney, Fletcher & Sippel; Laura Fay, Vice President, Seminole Gulf Railway; Shae LeDune, Vice President, Human Resources & Government Affairs, Indiana Rail Road Company

Since 2009 when Congress amended the Federal Railroad Safety Act (FRSA)in 2007/2008 to expand protections for employees claiming discrimination and retaliation for reporting alleged on-duty work injuries, illnesses or otherwise reporting on perceived railroad safety and security hazards, litigation, risk management, and defense of OSHA whistleblower claims have been a constant source of attention for railroads of all sizes and in all regions of the country. In this session, Tracey Donesky will update members on legal developments since SCOTUS reviewed a SARBANES-OXLEY case (Murray v. UBS, decided 2.8.24) that had implications on FRSA litigation and how courts have since addressed the legal standards enunciated in Murray. Find out how such litigation has evolved over the years, their current status and anticipated trajectory going forward. The session will also provide some practice pointers on how railroad employers may prepare, anticipate and avoid such claims.

Speaker(s): Tracey Donesky, Partner, Stinson, LLC

Compensation and benefits are the reason people work – so employers need to get this right. This session is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and practical tools necessary to confidently design, communicate, and champion effective total rewards and compensation strategies within their organizations. It will cover how to develop best practice total rewards packages, "sell" compensation and railroad benefits in a way that resonates with employees, strengthens their ability to build and manage competitive compensation structures, and stay compliant with rapidly evolving pay transparency laws.

Speaker(s): Andi Malter, Chief Human Resources Officer, OmniTRAX; Susan McBroom, Director Human Resources, Patriot Rail; Tom Wardrip, Managing Director, Compensation and Rewards, Gallagher; Robert Perbohner, Counsel To the Management Member, U.S. Railroad Retirement Board; Natasha Marx, Assistant To the Management Member, U.S. Railroad Retirement Board; Carissa Hansen, Associate, Stinson, LLC

Join a representative from the Railroad Retirement Board's Minneapolis Office, for a review and discussion of retirement, disability, spouse and survivor benefits.

Speaker(s): Justin Vandervegt, District Manager, St Paul District Office, U.S. Railroad Retirement Board

In this session, two legal industry experts will discuss the recent dockets and politics at the Surface Transportation Board.

Moderator: Ted Hunt, Partner, Dentons

Speaker(s): Justin Marks, Member, Clark Hill

In this session, two industry experts will discuss how federal preemption helps railroads defend claims. Additionally, they will discuss recent caselaw and guidance from federal agencies.

Moderator: David Rifkind, Partner, Stinson LLP

Speaker(s): Bill Mullins, Founder & Managing Partner, Mullins Law Group

Seven County Infrastructure Coalition v. Eagle County was the first U.S. Supreme Court case in 20 years to address the scope and meaning of the National Environmental Policy Act. In this session, two people who were directly involved will take you from the early days of the project at issue in Seven County — the Uinta Basin Railway — all the way through the Court’s landmark opinion. You’ll learn how thecCourt’s decision could change the playing field for anyone who faces a NEPA review, especially at the Surface Transportation Board.

Moderator: Jay Johnson, Partner, Venable LLP

Speaker(s): Kevin Keller, National Director, Intermodal Planning, HDR, Inc.

In this session, two expert attorneys will provide guidance on navigating claims that railroads may face under FELA and legal strategies for shortline counsel. This will include the legal framework, the types of claims, common plaintiff themes, and preventative measures.

Moderator: Ethan W. Carpenter, Partner, Gordon Stewart Spradlin PLLC

Speaker(s): Frank Gordon, Partner, Gordon Stewart Spradlin PLLC

The FRA CRISI Program staff will provide an update on program changes since the last cycle and explore specific program topics that generate questions or challenges for applicants and recipients.

Moderator: Richard Sherman, AVP, Policy and Industry Affairs, ASLRRA

Speaker(s): Deborah Kobrin, Government Affairs Specialist, Federal Railroad Administration; Reagan Morgan, Transportation Industry Analyst, Federal Railroad Administration; Lauren Kobayashi, Transportation Industry Analyst, Federal Railroad Administration

The FRA's CRISI Program staff will cover aspects of the project environmental clearance process and project management requirements that sometimes present challenges for grant applicants and recipients.

Moderator: Richard Sherman, AVP, Policy and Industry Affairs, ASLRRA

Speaker(s): Justin Zweifel, Environmental Project Specialist, Federal Railroad Administration

Join us for this session where we will hear from state legislators and ASLRRA member company advocacy experts about the importance of grassroots advocacy at the state and local levels in order to advance legislative goals on behalf of the short line industry. Learn how you can help and become more involved!

Moderator: Crystal Gitchell, AVP, Legislative & Regulatory Policy, ASLRRA

Speaker(s): Ross Lane, AVP, Government Affairs, Genesee & Wyoming Railroad Services, Inc.; Laura McNichol, SVP & Chief Sustainability Officer, Watco

Hosting a member of Congress is one of the most effective advocacy strategies available to short lines. By connecting your operations to local jobs, small businesses, and community vitality, you can make the case for essential policies like the 45G tax credit and CRISI funding. This session will walk through best practices for structuring site visits, building credibility with policymakers, and ensuring your railroad’s priorities stay top-of-mind in Washington.

Moderator: Nicole Brewin, VP, Congressional Affairs, ASLRRA

Speaker(s): Joey Evans, Director of Business Support & Development, TNW Corporation; Tyler White, Vice President, Government Affairs, RJ Corman Railroad Group, LLC

Tony Hatch will provide his expert opinion, and plenty of color to a review of railroading performance and the road ahead.

Speaker(s): Tony Hatch, Analyst, ABH Consulting

This session will demystify how Class Is evaluate new opportunities internally (industrial development, service design, pricing, etc.) and learn to package proposals for success.

Moderator: Matthew McLaughlin, VP Business Development – Rail, Cathcart Rail

Panelists: Adam Hess, Senior Manager, Business Development, CSX; Joseph Kellner, Chief Marketing Officer, Minnesota Commercial Railway/Regional Rail; Jake Weir, Senior Director, Industrial Development, R. J. Corman; Mark Ganaway, General Director of First and Last Mile, BNSF

Sharpen your railroad's value proposition and build a brand that shippers and partners remember and trust. This session will cover deploying practical tactics like digital presence, shipper outreach, and community engagement to tell your story, generate leads, and turn reputation into revenue.

Moderator: John Hatfield, Partner, CDLB Communications

Panelists: Clay Gambill, Director – Field Sales & Projects, Iowa Interstate Railroad; Jodi Heath, Senior Vice President of Development, Phoenix Rail; Anthony Menzies, Chief Executive Officer, Aberdeen, Carolina & Western Railroad; Shannon Drown, CCO, Commercial Development, R. J. Corman

This breakout will provide options and show the benefits of these detectors on your railroad. The different types of defects that they can detected, and general information will be covered. 

Moderator: Christine Bensen, Director of Mechanical Services, Inter-Rail Management, Inc.

Speaker(s): Bobby Walls, Key Account Manger/New Business Developement, Southern Technologies; Jacob Capra, Product Manager, LB Foster

This breakout will cover some of the many options in fuel saving ideas that can be implemented to help improve cost and emissions of your locomotive fleet.

Moderator: Joe Bentrup, Mechanical Superintendent, Terminal Railroad Association of St. Louis

Speaker(s): Rob Stevens, Managing Partner, First Analytics; Wayne Kennedy, Consultant, Kennedy Consulting; Marco Santoro, Global Management Applications Manager, LB Foster

In today’s shifting economic landscape, supply chain strategies are being redefined by bold leadership and innovative thinking. This dynamic panel brings together female leaders at the forefront of the rail industry who are navigating complex supply chain challenges in the wake of political tariffs and evolving market pressures. Join us as these leaders share how they are buying, sourcing, and building capital plans while managing risk and driving operational efficiency. Panelists will discuss strategies for partnering with vendors, adapting to tariff-driven supply chain disruptions, and maintaining a competitive edge in an unpredictable global market.

Moderator(s): Shea McLaughlin, Chief Commercial Officer, CDL Electric; Mark Bremmer, Senior Marketing Director, PS Technology

Speaker(s): Kelli Dunn, VP of Operations, Red River Valley & Western Railroad Co.; Jessica Lynn, Purchasing Manager of Engineering Services, Watco

C3RS has been around for many years. Technologies have advanced since its inception outdating the IMOU. Railroads and ASLRRA have been working with FRA for the modernization of the program. The day has arrived! Learn what has changed and how your railroad can participate.

Moderator: John Angel, VP, Compliance & Training – Safety, G&W

Speaker(s): Lance Hawks, Human Performance Specialist, FRA

Data will be presented and discussed concerning short line defects and violations. FRA will discuss various audit findings and the future focus of inspections.

Moderator: Jo Strang, SVP, Safety, Regulatory, and Environmental Policy, ASLRRA

Speaker(s): Adam Giovando, Staff Director – SMT 8, FRA; Steve Dupont, DRA-SMT 8, FRA

Shoving movment fatalities continue to occur in the industry. SOFA continues to analyze these incidents. Attend this session to see their latest findings.

Moderator: JR Gelnar, Vice President, Safety and Compliance, ASLRRA

Speaker(s): Ron Simpson, Human Performance Specialist, FRA

This presentation will go over the findings and best practices from the record-breaking number of Part 227 audits nationwide in 2025, including common defects, inspector points of emphasis, and things railroads can do to ensure audits go smoothly.

Moderator: Tom Meierhoff, Director of Rules and Training, Iowa Interstate

Speaker(s): Dr. Timothy McCormick, President, TOMC; Bill Weedmark, Director – Operations, TOMC

A rail industry case study on the successful adoption of a mobile application for managing track authorities. The case study showcases a reduction in wait times, increased accuracy and streamlined coordination among rail team members. The app seamlessly integrates with existing safety protocols and workflows, facilitating a smooth transition from traditional voice radio communication to the digital communication platform.

Speaker(s): Andy Kunzmann, Chief of Technology, Tracsis; Tom Ferris, VP Dispatching, G&W

description forthcoming.

Speaker(s): Micheal Rodriguez, Meteorcomm

A Class I perspective highlighting approaches for cybersecurity at scale, including governance, threat detection and incident response. Drawing on real-world challenges and lessons learned, it will demonstrate how mature cybersecurity programs are built and sustained in a highly connected, operationally critical environment.

Speaker(s): Joshua Russell, Principal Security Architect, CSX Security, CSX; Andrew Hollister, Founder & CEO, Simple Tech Innovations, Inc.

A two-part super session featuring an interactive session for participants to learn more about how AI functions and some tips and tricks on how they can potentially use it for their own workflows. That will be followed by presentations from member railroads and industry suppliers on new AI developments and tools currently in use in the short line industry.

Speaker(s): Andrew Hollister, President & CEO, Simple Tech Innovations, Inc.; Beth Fleischer, Director, Info Technology, Alaska Railroad; Leah Twombly, Sr. Director, IT Enterprise Services, OmniTRAX; Lisa Matta, Chief Innovation Officer, Wi-Tronix; Ritu Chawla, Director of Artificial Intelligence, Wi-Tronix

The rail industry is evolving — driven by innovation, sustainability goals, and a new generation of visionary talent. In this engaging panel, rising leaders share their career journeys, lessons learned, and strategies for making an impact early in their careers. Hear how they’re leveraging new technologies, championing safety and equity, and inspiring bold ideas to keep rail an essential, forward-thinking mode of transportation.

Speaker(s): Joe Parsons, Iowa Interstate Railroad; James Bonner, New York, Susquehanna & Western; Todd Marklin, SVP, Infrastructure, Phoenix Rail; 

A two-part super session featuring an interactive session for participants to learn more about how AI functions and some tips and tricks on how they can potentially use it for their own workflows. That will be followed by presentations from member railroads and industry suppliers on new AI developments and tools currently in use in the short line industry.

Speaker(s): Andrew Hollister, President & CEO, Simple Tech Innovations, Inc.; Beth Fleischer, Director, Info Technology, Alaska Railroad; Leah Twombly, Sr. Director, IT Enterprise Services, OmniTRAX; Lisa Matta, Chief Innovation Officer, Wi-Tronix; Ritu Chawla, Director of Artificial Intelligence, Wi-Tronix

Join Operation Lifesaver for in-person training and become an Authorized Volunteer (OLAV). Please note, advanced registration and online training is required to participate. Operation Lifesaver is a non-profit organization that provides rail safety public education programs in states across the U.S. to prevent collisions, injuries, and fatalities on and around railroad tracks and highway-rail grade crossings. OLAVs offer dynamic presentations to educate the public on how to stay safe around tracks and trains. In addition to offering free public presentations, OLAVs work with their state programs in a variety of ways to spread Operation Lifesaver’s (OL) rail safety messages at safety fairs, booths, local community events, etc.

Speaker(s): Moriah Whiteman, Manager of Education, Training and Volunteer Support, Operation Lifesaver