LRW "Telling Your Story" Symposium 2025

Join the League of Railway Women at the 2025 Symposium
Navigating the Rail Industry: Telling Your Story
June 11, 2025 - Willis Tower, Chicago
 

The League of Railway Women’s 2025 “Telling Your Story” Symposium brought together more than 100 women and allies from across the rail industry for an unforgettable day of learning, inspiration, and connection in Chicago’s Willis Tower.

Key Highlights
Facility Tours: Real-World Rail Operations

Attendees experienced two exclusive behind-the-scenes tours:

• BNSF’s Cicero Yard, a critical and expanding intermodal hub
• Metra’s 47th/49th Street Facilities, showcasing rehab, maintenance, and workforce development in action

Keynote Address
We were honored to welcome Janice R. Thomas, Chief of Staff and Deputy Executive Director of External Affairs at Metra, who opened the day with a powerful message about leadership, visibility, and service in today’s rail landscape. 

🏛️ Industry Insights: Navigating Political Change

A timely and thought-provoking panel explored how shifting political landscapes across North America are shaping the future of freight and passenger rail. Panelists from CN, AAR, CPKC, and Blank Rome Government Affairs unpacked cross-border priorities, trade policy, environmental regulations, and more. 

💼 Career Development & Storytelling Workshop

PR and communications expert Tamara Edwards led our featured 90-minute workshop, “Allow Yourself to be More Known”, guiding participants through storytelling strategies, visibility techniques, and tactical exercises to amplify their professional impact. A candid fireside chat with Linda Laurello, CEO of Delta Railroad Services, gave attendees a real-world look at leadership and influence.

🔄 Navigating Career Transitions Panel

We closed with an engaging panel on hiring and job-seeking best practices featuring HR and leadership voices from CPKC, GATX, SPRING, and Anacostia Rail Holdings—delivering practical takeaways for professionals on both sides of the hiring table