Implementing rail reform was at the heart of the panel discussion. Paul Nissenbaum, Associate Administrator and Chief Development Officer at the Federal Railroad Administration; Jeannie Kwon, Vice President of Mega Program Development & Coordination at Amtrak; and Jeroen Hansmann, Managing Director of Human Resources at DB Engineering & Consulting, discussed Amtrak’s Transformation Initiative and the anticipated challenges of implementation over the coming years. 

Later in the program, KellyAnne Gallagher, CEO of the Commuter Rail Coalition, delivered remarks before Cornelia Gaumann, Customer Experience Manager at DB Fernverkehr, Deutsche Bahn, presented on reimagining rail for families. Her presentation highlighted how targeted improvements to products, services, and onboard experiences can make rail more attractive to families while helping build the next generation of rail passengers.

The discussions emphasized the importance of strong partnerships and continuous exchange to translate strategic ambitions into practical, implementable solutions. Participants engaged in conversations on topics such as passenger rail expansion, infrastructure development, and operational performance. 

Across both events, a common theme emerged: the growing importance of transatlantic collaboration in addressing shared challenges and advancing rail systems in both regions. The exchange highlighted how knowledge sharing and joint efforts can support innovation and long-term development in the rail sector.