Panel Discussion on “Driving Results – Collaborative Strategies for Planning and Performance Management” with representatives from Virginia Passenger Rail Authority, Virginia Railway Express, CSX and Amtrak.
DB E.C.O. North America hosted the “U.S. – Germany Rail Forum 2025” at the German‑American Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C., on September 29, 2025. The event brought together industry leaders, innovators, and technical experts to discuss how new ideas, technologies, and approaches are shaping the future of the rail industry. The forum served as a platform for cross‑Atlantic collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the exchange of best practices to advance the modernization of rail systems in both countries.
Rusty Roberts, Senior Policy Advisor, Federal Railroad Administration 
Maren Bode, Transportation Attaché, Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, Washington, D.C
Attendees had the opportunity to engage in discussions, delve into the latest innovations in rail transportation, and gain insights into sustainable and efficient solutions that help drive the industry forward.
Key highlights from the event included:
Driving Results – Collaborative Strategies for Planning and Performance Management: In a panel discussion moderated by Michael Weaver, Manager, DB E.C.O. North America, DJ Stadtler, Executive Director, Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA); Dallas Richards, Deputy CEO and Chief Engineer, Virginia Railway Express (VRE); Andy Daly, Senior Director, Passenger Operations, CSX; and Joseph Barr, Senior Director, Network Development East, Amtrak, explored challenges in a shifting market environment, the strategies their agencies have adopted, and opportunities to further enhance service quality and performance.
Innovative Approaches to Maintaining and Expanding Rail Infrastructure: Expert Tobias Fischer, Senior Vice President Engineering, Technology, Infrastructure & Maintenance Management, DB InfraGO from Deutsche Bahn’s Infrastructure Division and Stefan Leistner, Principal, DB E.C.O. North America; former Head of Analytics & Asset Management, Deutsche Bahn outlined Germany’s comprehensive rail modernization strategy, including the overhaul program, advanced maintenance practices, and methods for building resilient, high‑performance rail networks.
Presentation by Deutsche Bahn Experts on “Designing the Future of Onboard Hospitality”
The “U.S. – Germany Rail Forum 2025” brought together industry leaders, innovators, and experts for a day of dialogue, exchange, and networking. We thank our guests of honor, speakers, participants, and partners for making this event a success and look forward to continuing this momentum in the months ahead.
