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From sessions to networking, we impact your decision-making

ATTENDEES CAN EXPECT:

  • Economic and freight outlooks that focus on factors that will affect rail deman

    A look into the current state of regulations and what to expect as the new Administration ramps up activity

  • Executive Keynote discussion to get insights directly from a major industry executive

  • A full suite of panels and presentations that look at each of the major sectors of rail freight: Grain, Intermodal, Metals, Energy, etc.

  • A look at how railcar capacity has been affected by changes in demand by sector and what to expect going forward

Receive important 2025 FTR Transportation Conference Updates

From sessions to networking, we impact your decision-making

Continued capacity issues are plaguing the trucking industry and driving shippers to search for help on the rail and intermodal networks. This freight-focused look at the rail and intermodal industry will give you clarity on the dynamics of railcar capacity and demand, economic and freight outlooks, regulatory impacts, and a review of each of the major sectors of rail freight. Featuring presentations from major shippers and rail executives as well as the power of the FTR Freight•cast forecasting methodology, you'll leave with a deeper understanding of the state of competitiveness between rail, intermodal, and trucking.

ATTENDEES CAN EXPECT:

  • Economic and freight outlooks that focus on factors that will affect rail demand

  • A look into the current state of regulations and what to expect as the new Administration ramps up activity

  • Executive Keynote discussion to get insights directly from a major industry executive

  • A full suite of panels and presentations that look at each of the major sectors of rail freight: Grain, Intermodal, Metals, Energy, etc.

  • A look at how railcar capacity has been affected by changes in demand by sector and what to expect going forward

 

Register Now

Rail Freight Agenda

Click on the agenda titles below to view 2023's session descriptions.

6:30 AM - Indy Canal Run/Walk

Meet in the Crowne Plaza lobby. Start your day off right with a 3 or 5-mile run, or a 2-mile walk down the Indy canal. A great time to enjoy the beauty of Indianapolis and engage with your colleagues. Participants also receive a complimentary running shirt.

7:30 AM - Women in Transportation Meet & Greet

Join us for the Women in Transportation Meet and Greet. FTR’s VP of Client Services, Helen Lile, will host an informal gathering for women, allowing attendees the chance to connect and engage with other female leaders in the transportation industry.

8:45 AM - Welcome
9:00 AM - Economic Update: Have You Ever Seen the Rain?

An industry economist provides their outlook on the indicators to watch heading into 2024 and what it means for freight. 

Presenter: 
TBA

9:45 AM - The Road Ahead: FTR’s Perspective on Truck Freight

FTR presents our outlook for volume growth in the carload and intermodal freight markets over the next year. We'll discuss the sectors we are most keyed in on going forward for signs about where the freight market is trending.        

Presenter: 
Todd Tranausky, FTR

10:15 AM - Networking Break
10:30 AM - Shipper Spotlight: Who is Focused on Moving Forward?

A rail shipper provides their take on the market and what they are focused on heading into the new year. Hear what their plans are for market share and volumes between modes based on their experience.

Presenters: 
TBA
Todd Tranauksy, FTR

11:15 AM - STB In Focus: Vital Decisions from D.C.

Two leading transportation attorneys discuss the finer points of the biggest issues presently before the Surface Transportation Board.  They'll debate and discuss why these issues are important and what they mean for your business.

Panelists: 
Karyn Booth, Thompson Hine, LLP
Bill Mullins, Baker & Miller, PLLC

Moderator: 
Todd Tranausky, FTR

12:00 PM - Lunch
1:00 PM - View from the Class I Suite: Norfolk Southern's Alan Shaw

NS' Alan Shaw discusses the opportunities for growth and the challenges related to executing that growth plan in the year ahead. 

Presenter:
Alan Shaw, Norfolk Southern
Eric Starks, FTR

1:45 PM A Deep Dive into the Grain Bin

Two leaders in the agricultural space discuss the outlook for ag in the year ahead and what the risks to that outlook are moving forward.

Panelists: 
TBA

Moderator: 
Todd Tranausky, FTR

2:30 PM - Networking Break
2:45 PM - Knowledge is Power: Harnessing Data Through Technology

A look at how technological advancements can give shippers better, more predictive data on which to make supply chain decisions. A case study will show how this has worked for shippers in the real world.

Presenter: 
John Schmitter, RailState

3:15 PM - Intermodal: Measuring Actual Growth

After several tough years for intermodal, this panel provides a look toward what could be different in 2024. We'll look at the competitive dynamics in play and what could support internodal volume growth in 2024.

Panelists: 
Ivan Zenovic, Hub Group, Inc. 
TBA

Moderator: 
Todd Tranausky, FTR

5:30 PM - Evening Reception

Location: Grand Hall Bar, Union Station

Rail Freight Agenda

Click the download button to view the agenda pdf.

Download agenda

Previous companies by industry

Every Great Growth-Driven Design Project 

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Rail Freight Speakers

MelissaYounger_20210719_016_cropped
Melissa Younger

Melissa is the Events Manager with FTR. She joined our team at the end of 2015, after spending almost 10 years at Indiana University’s School of Public Health, managing events, finances, and day-to-day operations for the Office of Development and Communications. At FTR, she is responsible for managing FTR's annual Transportation Conference, FTR webinars, and other events.  

JonStarks_20210719_016
Jonathan Starks
Jon is the Chief Intelligence Officer at FTR. He has spent his entire career in the freight transportation sector having joined FTR in 2001. Jon's expertise includes freight modeling, modal analysis, fleet characteristics, and equipment demand. He is directly responsible for producing FTR's Freight-cast transportation model, producing more than 13 million datapoints and 85,000 forecasted items each and every month.
JamiSargent_20210719_013
Jami Sargent
Jami is the Chief of Staff at FTR. She joined the FTR team in 2016 after having spent over 13 years working for a non-profit organization focused on mental health issues. As Practice Manager for the non-profit, Jami was responsible for the operations, billing, and regulatory compliance. At FTR she is responsible for managing FTR's company financial accounts, contracting and administrative team.
MelissaYounger_20210719_016_cropped
Melissa Younger

Melissa is the Events Manager with FTR. She joined our team at the end of 2015, after spending almost 10 years at Indiana University’s School of Public Health, managing events, finances, and day-to-day operations for the Office of Development and Communications. At FTR, she is responsible for managing FTR's annual Transportation Conference, FTR webinars, and other events.  

JonStarks_20210719_016
Jonathan Starks
Jon is the Chief Intelligence Officer at FTR. He has spent his entire career in the freight transportation sector having joined FTR in 2001. Jon's expertise includes freight modeling, modal analysis, fleet characteristics, and equipment demand. He is directly responsible for producing FTR's Freight-cast transportation model, producing more than 13 million datapoints and 85,000 forecasted items each and every month.
JamiSargent_20210719_013
Jami Sargent
Jami is the Chief of Staff at FTR. She joined the FTR team in 2016 after having spent over 13 years working for a non-profit organization focused on mental health issues. As Practice Manager for the non-profit, Jami was responsible for the operations, billing, and regulatory compliance. At FTR she is responsible for managing FTR's company financial accounts, contracting and administrative team.

From sessions to networking, we impact your decision-making

 

ATTENDEES CAN EXPECT:

  • Economic and freight outlooks that focus on factors that will affect rail demand

  • A look into the current state of regulations and what to expect as the new Administration ramps up activity

  • Executive Keynote discussion to get insights directly from a major industry executive

  • A full suite of panels and presentations that look at each of the major sectors of rail freight: Grain, Intermodal, Metals, Energy, etc.

  • A look at how railcar capacity has been affected by changes in demand by sector and what to expect going forward

Register Now - Freight Bundle
Register Now - Rail Bundle

Rail Freight Agenda

Click on the agenda titles below to view 2024's session descriptions.

 

6:30 AM - Indy Canal Run/Walk - Sponsored by Telegraph

Start your day off right with a 3 or 5-mile run, or a 2-mile walk down the Indy canal. A great time to enjoy the beauty of Indianapolis and engage with your colleagues. Participants also receive a complimentary running shirt.

Sponsored by Telegraph

7:30 AM - 8:30 AM - Women in Transportation Meet & Greet with Women in Trucking

Kick off your day right with a lovely cup of joe and conversation at the Women in Transportation Meet & Greet!

Gourmet Coffee Bar

Hosted by Jami Sargent, COO, FTR & Jennifer Hedrick, President & CEO, Women in Trucking

Sponsored by Atlantic Logistics

7:30 AM - 8:45 AM - Omelet Bar & Networking Breakfast
Catch up with old friends, new acquaintances, or colleagues you don't see in the office as much anymore over a hearty breakfast and omelet bar courtesy of the platinum sponsor, Atlantic Logistics.
8:30 AM - Rail Freight Kick-off

Welcome!

Jonathan Starks - CEO, FTR

8:45 AM - Is the Economy Still On Track?

An expert on the economy examines established and emerging trends, especially those that could impact freight in the rail industry.

Presenter: 
Trevor Gillen - Director of Economic Planning, TTX

9:30 AM - Riding the Rails: FTR’s Outlook for Rail Freight

Listen to FTR's projections regarding volume growth in both the carload and intermodal freight sectors for the upcoming year, along with key indicators to monitor for indications of either a stronger or weaker market.

Presenter: 
Joseph Towers - Senior Analyst, Rail, FTR

       

10:00 AM - More Insight on the Rail Freight Market

A respected equity research analyst provides insights into the current state of the rail industry, offers projections for the upcoming year, and discusses the various challenges and opportunities confronting both the railroads and their customers.

Presenter: 
Ken Hoexter - Senior Transportation Analyst, Bank of America

Moderator: 
Jonathan Starks - CEO, FTR

10:30 AM - Networking Break
10:45 AM - Intermodal: Poised for Growth or Stuck in Neutral?

The intermodal market has been dealing with lower truckload rates, varying import volumes, shifting port choices, and less reliable rail service. Stakeholders debate whether these problems are fading or will continue to affect the segment for some time.

Presenters:
Jon Gabriel - Group Vice President, Consumer Products, BNSF Railway
Robert Hooper, Jr. - CEO, Atlantic Logistics

Moderator: 
Joseph Towers - Senior Analyst Rail, FTR

11:30 AM - The Critical Connection Between Class 1 and Shipper

Despite the significant role short lines play in the supply chain, their presence is often overlooked. Tune in to hear how the short line environment is evolving and the roles they play for both shippers and carriers.

Presenters:
Stefan Loeb - VP Business Development and First & Final Mile Markets, Norfolk Southern
Bob Babcock - President and CEO, LA&L Railroad

Moderator: 
Eric Starks - Chairman of the Board, FTR

12:00 PM - Lunch Buffet sponsored by Atlantic Logistics
Catch up with old friends, new acquaintances, or colleagues you don't see in the office as much anymore over a lunch buffet courtesy of the platinum sponsor, Atlantic Logistics.
1:00 PM - Rail Freight Keynote

Listen to insights from a rail industry leader on the direction of the rail freight market and how the industry is responding to changes in freight composition and evolving customer expectations.

Presenter: 
Luisa Fernandez-Willey - Principal Economist, Canadian National

Moderator: 
Eric Starks - Chairman of the Board, FTR 

1:45 PM - Is Rail Meeting Shippers' Expectations?

Following a big drop in rail employment, fluctuations in freight volumes, and uneven service the railroads have come under scrutiny from both customers and regulators regarding service standards. Listen to a panel of rail shippers evaluate the industry's response to these concerns and discuss their expectations for the future.

Presenters:
Todd Tranausky - Logistics Procurement Manager, Americas Stryenics
Kristin Dixon - Director of Rail Operations, Third Coast Commodities
Harris Ligon - CEO, Telegraph

Moderator: 
Jonathan Starks - CEO, FTR 

2:30 PM - Networking Break
3:00 PM - What's Washington's Plan for Rail?

Experts on regulatory developments at the Surface Transportation Board, the Federal Railroad Administration, and Congress share their insights on forthcoming developments from Washington and the potential impacts on both railroads and their customers.

Presenters:
Karyn Booth - Partner & Chair Transportation Practice, Thompson Hine LLP
William Mullins - Managing Partner, Mullins Law Group

Moderator: 
Joseph Towers - Senior Analyst Rail, FTR

3:45 PM - Driving Transparency in The Rail Industry

Compared to other modes of transportation, the rail industry is still a bit of a black box. Join this session where the co-founder of RailState talks through the benefits of railcar tracking and creating a more fluid and shipper friendly rail network.

Presenter: 
John Schmitter - CCO, RailState

4:30 PM - Market Intelligence Master Class

Join Derek Young, FTR’s VP of Sales & Marketing, as he discusses the importance of devoting resources to your market intelligence toolkit to protect your profits and maximize your margins.
He’ll discuss why a defined market intelligence process is more important now than ever before. You’ll learn who benefits, how the impact trickles throughout the organization, the key components of a robust process, and how FTR subscriptions help our clients with our turnkey market intelligence solutions.

Presenter: 
Derek Young, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, FTR

5:30 PM - Delivering the Future of Rail Reception - Sponsored by TrinityRail

Location - The Indiana Rail Road Headquarters

View 2024 Session Details Below

Rail Freight Agenda

Download the Rail Freight agenda in PDF.
Download Agenda

Company List

View companies in your industry that have previously attended.
Download List

Rail Freight Speakers

Click the dots below to scroll through 2024's fantastic list of speakers.

Jonathan Starks CEO, FTR
View Full Bio
Trevor Gillen Director of Economic Planning, TTX
View Full Bio
Joseph Towers Senior Analyst, Rail - FTR
View Full Bio
Ken Hoexter Senior Transportation Analyst, Bank of America
View Full Bio
Jon Gabriel Group Vice President, Consumer Products - BNSF Railway
View Full Bio
Robert Hooper, Jr, CEO, Atlantic Logistics
View Full Bio
Eric Starks Chairman of the Board, FTR
View Full Bio
Stefan Loeb VP Business Development and First & Final Mile Markets, Norfolk Southern
View Full Bio
Bob Babcock President and CEO, LA&L Railroad
View Full Bio
Luisa Fernandez-Willey Principal Economist, Canadian National
View Full Bio
Todd Tranausky Logistics Procurement Manager, Americas Stryenics
View Full Bio
Kristin Dixon Director of Rail Operations, Third Coast Commodities
View Full Bio
Harris Ligon CEO, Telegraph
View Full Bio
Karyn Booth Partner & Chair Transportation Practice, Thompson Hine LLP
View Full Bio
William Mullins Managing Partner, Mullins Law Group
View Full Bio
John Schmitter CCO, RailState
View Full Bio
Derek Young VP of Sales & Marketing, FTR
View Full Bio

Rail Freight Platinum Sponsor

Interested in becoming the 2024 Rail Freight Platinum Sponsor?

Contact events@ftrintel.com

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