A cohort of 30 women and allies from across Norfolk Southern participated in the Women in Rail conference, organized by Railway Age and Railway Track & Structure, held in Chicago. The second annual, two-day event featured engaging panels with industry leaders, an awards ceremony, and a local transit tour. With nearly 300 attendees, the conference provided a valuable platform for networking and knowledge-sharing within the rail industry.

Women from each of NS’ operating teams attended, including Operations, Engineering, Mechanical, Transportation, and NS Police, along with IT and Compliance. They came from field locations from throughout NS’ 22-state network, including Elkhart and Ft. Wayne, Indiana; Norfolk and Roanoke, Virginia; and Chicago. Their years of service ranged from six months to 32 years.

Prior to the conference, the cohort visited the Pullman National Historic Park, where they were joined by Jaspreet Pannu, Northern Region General Manager. Pannu highlighted NS’ performance successes and underscored the role of NS’ dedicated workforce. The National Park Service then facilitated a tour, giving the history of Pullman and the roles women filled contributing to the success of the luxury rail cars and eventually the labor strike in 1894. These were the first jobs held by women in the rail industry.

That evening, the team gathered for a lively networking event, where they had the chance to unwind, enjoy dinner, and learn how to play bocce ball, strengthening connections with colleagues from across the country.

Over the next two days, participants engaged with a wide array of insightful sessions, covering topics such as career advancement, mentorship opportunities, and the technological innovations driving the future of the rail industry. The conference provided a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals and gain fresh perspectives on key challenges and opportunities within the sector.

John Orr, Chief Operating Officer, and Dewayne Swindall, VP Transportation-Southern Region, participated on an allyship and industry inclusivity panel. They discussed NS’ commitment to creating a railroad where women can thrive and build long-term careers.

“Women in Rail is about empowering women at every level to succeed in their railroading careers,” said Cherita Hunter Jones, Senior Manager Grade Crossing & Wayside Engineering. “We wanted NS to have a strong presence at this year’s conference so more of our employees could experience this impactful program firsthand.”

Norfolk Southern’s participation was organized by the Women in Operations Steering Committee, with strong support from Orr and Colby Gardner, AVP Operations. The committee remains committed to developing and promoting initiatives that support the recruitment, development, retention, and advancement of women in rail operations.