In this special follow-up to the Emerging Technologies panel at the AREMA 2025 Annual Conference & Expo in Indianapolis, host Walt Bleser and panelists Doron Cohadier (RailVision) and Jason Schindler (Object Computing) continue the exploration of how artificial intelligence is transforming the rail industry. The conversation dives into the evolution of the panel and the real-world applications of AI in rail safety, operational efficiency, and data-driven decision-making.

Doron and Jason explain how AI tools are designed to support, not replace, human workers. They emphasize the importance of high-quality data, human-in-the-loop systems, and regulatory collaboration. The episode also addresses industry concerns around job displacement, data ownership, and the future of autonomous rail operations.

With thoughtful insights and real-world examples, this episode encourages listeners to embrace change, understand AI as a tool, and prepare for a future shaped by innovation.

In this episode, host Walt Bleser chats with the two latest Watford Fellowship recipients, Matt Kirby, PE, MLE, M.ASCE, AVP/Director - Rail Public Projects & Programs at Michael Baker International, and Daniel Rappaport, Civil Engineer III – RLE at Chicago Transit Authority. The Watford Fellowship Program gives grants to two young rail or transit professionals for the Watford Conference, an international conference on rail and transit design and operations. The pair reflect on their experiences from this year’s Conference in London, England. They also share their perspective on global rail projects after field trips to major British rail infrastructure projects as part of the Conference. If you want to learn more about how AREMA helps professionals advance their careers, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

This episode, our host chats with Christopher Barkan, PhD, Professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Director of RailTEC, and Peter Masson, Director at TRC and Chair of Technical Committee 13 – Environmental about the upcoming Railroad Environmental Conference (RREC) and the new Sustainability & Resiliency (S&R) Day. The collaboration through AREMA and the RREC aims to integrate the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals into rail practices, fostering a more sustainable and resilient industry. Dr. Barkan discusses his history of leadership in rail research and education leading up to hosting RREC and the S&R Day. Peter shares his background in environmental planning and railroad compliance, emphasizing how sustainability and resiliency in railroading go beyond environmental issues to include community development, efficiency, and long-term viability. The episode highlights the importance of continuous improvement, supporting your goals, and engaging the next generation.