The 2013 APTA Rail Conference, June 2-5 in Philadelphia, features several new speakers and sessions.
FTA Administrator Peter M. Rogoff is a newly added speaker at the Opening General Session and panelist on “Getting Your Rail Safety Program on the MAP,” both on Monday, June 3.

Rogoff is also the keynote speaker for a Mineta Transportation Institute-sponsored workshop, “How Can the U.S. Strengthen its Position as a World Leader in Transportation,” which will address the acceptability of various transportation financing options, funding successes, public-private partnerships, equity, and legislative strategies. APTA President & CEO Michael ­Melaniphy also will speak at the workshop, set for June 1, the day before the Rail Conference opens.

Two conference sessions address international issues. “International Developments in High-Speed Rail” on June 3, will present new service models, challenges, innovations, and improvements. Among the presenters is Timothy Fischer, former deputy prime minister of Australia and member of the Government of Australia HSR Advisory Committee based in Sydney.

The second international session, Tuesday, June 4, is “Contracting for Services—New Business Models.” It features presentations on maximizing public-private partnerships and examining new models emerging worldwide.

The International Rail Rodeo on Saturday, June 1, features a new team competition in the afternoon for agencies that send both an operator and a maintenance crew.

The Rail Conference schedule features workshops and technical sessions on rail operations, technology, safety, security, planning, finance, capital projects, and the technical aspects of providing all modes of rail service. For details and to register, click here.