The AREMA Educational Foundation extends its sincere thanks to the participants, sponsors, presenters, hosts, and industry partners who helped make REES 2026 a success in Minneapolis, MN. Held June 16–18 at Metro Transit North Loop Garage, the Railway Engineering Education Symposium (REES) brought university faculty together with railroad, transit, supplier, consultant, and academic leaders to explore how railway engineering can be brought more fully into the classroom.
Throughout the program, participants took part in discussions on industry workforce needs, university resources, research opportunities, and current academic programs. Faculty engaged with leaders from across the rail industry, including the FRA, CPKC, transit agencies, suppliers, consultants, and rail operators, to explore challenges, opportunities, and strategies for preparing the next generation of railway professionals.
We are especially grateful to our field trip hosts, including Metro Transit for tours of the Green Line Extension and Hiawatha O&M Facility, and Loram for hosting participants for a tour and lunch at its Hamel, MN facility. These experiences gave attendees a valuable, real-world look at railway engineering in action.
A special thank you to our sponsors and donors for making this program possible. Your support helps expand railway engineering education, strengthen university-industry connections, and prepare the next generation of professionals who will design, build, maintain, and advance the rail industry.
This program could not take place without our invaluable Sponsors.
2026 Highlights