Last week, the Canadian rail industry gathered in Winnipeg for National Railway Day 2024 (NRD24), bringing together key players, experts, and innovators from across the sector. It was an incredible two-day event filled with insightful discussions, groundbreaking technologies, and valuable networking opportunities.
Day 1 Highlights:
The day kicked off with compelling sessions from top industry leaders. We had inspiring presentations from Chris Avery (Arctic Gateway Group), Matt Foot (CPKC), Rita Toporowski (VIA Rail), and Richard Walker (Metrolinx), each providing unique insights into the future of rail in Canada.
Our Tradeshow Floor featured an exciting Innovation Zone Stage, where industry trailblazers shared the latest advancements in rail technology and sustainability:
- Aage Lindstad from Wabtec Corporation discussed the importance of telematics in transforming rail efficiency and winning back market share from trucking.
- Sarah Levesque of Supercom Industries introduced Spring Drain Technology, a cutting-edge solution for sustainable rail stabilization in sensitive environments like peatlands and wetlands.
- Simon Ouellette, P.Eng., from Rail Industries Canada explored European innovations entering the North American market, such as safer, low-maintenance switches, predictive wheel wear technology, and portable weighing solutions.
- Lisa Tuningley, CEO of T-RAIL Products Inc., shared insights on how T-RAIL is driving sustainable growth through strategic partnerships in Canada's rail sector.
The day wrapped up with a lively Welcome Reception sponsored by EkyRail Enterprises Inc., where attendees connected over shared goals and the future of rail in Canada.
Day 2 Highlights:
The second day opened with more opportunities for engagement on the Tradeshow Floor. We then dove into sessions from our final speakers, Kevin Sim (Colliers Project Leaders), David Przednowek (CN), and Rick McLellan (Genesee & Wyoming Canada).
The day culminated in our much-anticipated Annual CARS Awards Dinner. Former NHL goalie and Olympic silver medalist Corey Hirsch delivered a powerful keynote, sharing his inspiring mental health journey with our attendees.
We were thrilled to recognize five outstanding individuals and suppliers in the rail industry with our annual CARS Awards.
Stay tuned for spotlights on each of our deserving award recipients!
Looking Ahead:
Thank you to everyone who joined us at NRD24 and helped make this event a success. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year in Montreal for NRD25! Stay connected for more updates, photos, and highlights from this memorable gathering.