AGENDA
Registration / Networking
Opening Remarks
Keynote: Presenting Partner Hitachi-Rail
Hackable Mobility: Cybersecurity and Digital Sovereignty in Passenger Rail and Subway.
As automated transit systems become prime targets for malicious actors, we cannot wait for a crisis to realize our mobility is hackable. This session examines where Canada is leading and where we are critically falling behind in transit cybersecurity. Panelists will tackle the urgent need for national cybersecurity standards, applied research, and domestic capacity development to ensure our networks are built securely to resist foreign interference.
Break
Alto’s First Kilometre: Accelerating the Montreal-Ottawa High-Speed Corridor
Canada's high-speed rail is officially underway with the Montreal-Ottawa segment. This panel explores the project's strategic value and how planners can overcome the socio-political hurdles of large-scale rail electrification.
Fireside chat: Building Rail with Canadian Jobs: Protecting National Sovereignty
Lunch
Keynote
Standardizing the Tracks: A Deep Dive into Preventing Geopolitical and Terrorist Cyber Attacks
There is an urgent need to fortify Canada’s mission-critical rail infrastructure against evolving digital threats. Experts will discuss progress toward developing foundational transit cybersecurity protocols and unified standards to bridge the regulatory gap currently leaving Canada’s rail infrastructure vulnerable to evolving digital threats.
Should Passenger Rail be Part of the Defense Network? Protecting Canada from Foreign Threats
Canadian rail is more than transit, it is a critical national security asset. This panel explores the strategic necessity of treating Canadian transit as a critical national security asset and a vital second line of defense.
Break
Retrofitting the Rails: Converting Legacy Diesel Locomotives to Hydrogen
Achieving zero emissions rail requires a dual focus on retrofitting legacy diesel trains and pioneering alternative fueling infrastructure. Highlighting CPKC’s successful hydrogen locomotive in Alberta, this panel explores the engineering complexities of clean-tech vehicle conversion alongside the supply chain innovations necessary to power them.
Closing Remarks
Rail Innovation Conference 2026
The next decade of rail, rewired.
Scarborough, Ontario · HELD JULY 8, 2026
Opening keynotes
Meet Michael Lindsay, CEO of Metrolinx
Moderators and Speakers
Industry leaders, operators, researchers and policy experts shaping panels across the day. Tap a card to read more.
Powered by the leaders of tomorrow's rail.
Our sponsorship partners represent leading organizations driving innovation, standardizations, and robust technical solutions across the Canadian and global rail landscapes.
Thank you to all of our speakers, partners, and attendees for an incredible event. Follow the links below to view our gallery and recaps.
Conference agenda
Registration / Networking
Opening Remarks
Land Acknowledgement (5 min)
Dr. Josipa Petrunic, CEO & President of CUTRIC (5 min)
Keynote Speakers
Executive Fireside Chat
Hitachi Rail Keynote
Networking Break
Hackable Mobility: Cybersecurity and Digital Sovereignty in Passenger Rail and Subway
As automated transit systems become prime targets for malicious actors, we cannot wait for a crisis to realize our mobility is hackable. This session examines where Canada is leading and where we are critically falling behind in transit cybersecurity. Panelists will tackle the urgent need for national cybersecurity standards, applied research and domestic capacity development to ensure our networks are built securely to resist foreign interference.
Progress Update: The Canadian Cybersecurity Innovation Initiative in Rail and Transit (CCIIRT) and the ACES Data Trust
The Canadian Cybersecurity Innovation Initiative in Rail and Transit (CCIIRT) aims to address growing cybersecurity threats in public mobility systems by focusing on four strategic pillars: developing the regulatory framework, developing sector-specific standards, research and innovation, and workforce training and upskilling priorities. The ACES Data Trust serves as a highly secure, centralized national platform designed to log, store, and track real-time operational data from zero-emissions buses and charging infrastructure across Canada.
Lunch and Networking
Alto's First Kilometre: Accelerating the Montreal-Ottawa High-Speed Corridor
Canada's high-speed rail is officially underway with the Montreal-Ottawa segment. This panel explores the project's strategic value and how planners can overcome the socio-political hurdles of large-scale rail electrification.
Standardizing the Tracks: A Deep Dive into Preventing Geopolitical and Terrorist Cyber Attacks
There is an urgent need to fortify Canada’s mission-critical public transit infrastructure against evolving digital threats. Experts will discuss progress toward developing foundational transit cybersecurity protocols and unified standards to bridge the regulatory gap currently leaving Canada’s transit infrastructure vulnerable to evolving digital threats.
Networking Break
Should Passenger Rail be Part of the Defense Network? Protecting Canada from Foreign Threats
Canadian rail is more than transit, it is a critical national security asset. This panel explores the strategic necessity of treating Canadian transit as a critical national security asset and a vital second line of defense.
Retrofitting the Rails: Converting Legacy Diesel Locomotives to Hydrogen
Achieving zero emissions rail requires a dual focus on retrofitting legacy diesel trains and pioneering alternative fueling infrastructure. Highlighting CPKC’s successful hydrogen locomotive in Alberta, this panel explores the engineering complexities of clean-tech vehicle conversion alongside the supply chain innovations necessary to power them.
Closing Keynote
A convening of the rail ecosystem.
What attendees take away.
A focused program designed so every attendee leaves with decisions made easier, not a longer reading list.
National cyber posture
A clear picture of where Canadian rail leads on cybersecurity and where it is critically exposed.
Alto corridor playbook
Strategic and socio-political lessons from the Montreal to Ottawa high-speed segment.
Hydrogen retrofit paths
Engineering realities behind converting legacy diesel to hydrogen, grounded in CPKC's Alberta program.
Defence-grade rail
What it means to treat passenger rail as critical national security infrastructure.
Standards and sovereignty
Progress toward unified transit cybersecurity protocols and Canadian capacity.
Peer networks
Structured forums connecting operators, manufacturers, regulators and researchers.
Moments from the 2026 conference.
A compiled record of the networking, keynote addresses, and panels that defined this year's event. Click any slide to expand full-screen.
A one-day event convening Canada's rail and public transit leaders.
The Rail Innovation Conference 2026 brings together operators, manufacturers, regulators and researchers to confront the two forces reshaping Canadian rail: cyber resilience and propulsion decarbonization. The program features working sessions, not showcases, and aims to make decisions easier, not produce a longer reading list.
Hosted in Scarborough, Ontario and anchored by keynotes from presenting partner Hitachi, the 2026 program is organized around delivered work, live deployments and the regulatory horizon shaping the next decade.
Interested in sponsoring this event?
Position your brand alongside the organizations shaping the next decade of Canadian rail. Reach 75 or more decision-makers from operators, manufacturers, regulators and research institutions. Sponsorship tiers are available with custom activations.
5th Annual Rail Innovation Conference 2026
The 5th Annual Rail Innovation Conference is the essential forum for tackling the most significant operational and environmental challenges in Canadian rail.
Cyber Resilience in Rail: The agenda is heavily focused on achieving robust security. Experts will present the current cybersecurity standards, innovative defense solutions, and real-world challenges of protecting interconnected rail systems and passenger data.
Propulsion and Decarbonization: Explore the current status of Canada’s transition to zero- and low-carbon emissions propulsion. Key sessions will analyze the feasibility, infrastructure requirements, and regulatory landscape for hydrogen rail and the integration of battery electric bus technologies with rail station charging equipment, moving towards a sustainable future.
FEATURED
Recordings
Registration for this event is now closed. Purchase our session recordings to catch up on what you missed!
Members
- CUTRIC Member pricing for all conference session recordings
- 20% off regular price!
Non-Members
- Non-Member pricing for all conference session recordings
- Regular price
SPEAKERS
Aaron Amorim
Chief Software Architect, Hitachi Rail
Alexandre Lampron
Director - Strategies and Development, Hydrogène Québec
Ashish Soni
OT Cybersecurity Manager, B.C. Rapid Transit Company (SkyTrain)
Dr. Mitra Mirhassani
Co-Director, SHIELD Automotive Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence | Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Windsor
Dr. Yili (Kelly) Tang
Assistant Professor (Transportation), Western University
Ian Hodkinson
Business Development Director, Technical - Transit Systems North America, Alstom
Jenny Bo-ot
Project Lead: Academic and Commercial Innovatio, CUTRIC
Jess Smith
Manager: Commercialization & Operations, CUTRIC
Dr. Josipa Petrunic
President & CEO, CUTRIC
Kaden Killpack
Commercial Project Manager, Stadler Rail
Kevin Volk
Assistant Deputy Minister, B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Transit
Lucie Anderton
Director of Sustainability, Union of International Railways (UIC)
Maike Althaus
Executive Director - Hydrogen Ontario, Canadian Hydrogen Association (CHA)
Mukul Asthana
Research & Innovation Task Force, OSPE (Ontario Society of Professional Engineers)
Nicolas Pocard
Vice President Marketing and Strategic Partnerships, Ballard
Pierre-Yves Boivin
Chief Communications and Engagement Officer
Sean Stephenson
Counsel, Dentons Canada LLP
Shaun Miller
Deputy Executive Officer, Project Management (ZEB Infrastructure), L.A. Metro
Terence Johnson
President, Transport Action Canada
Paul Lopes
Vice-President Rail - Transdev, CEO & General Manager - Ontario Line Services
Thomas Acher
Head of Process Design & Development, Linde Engineering
OUR SPONSORS
01.
VIRTUAL NETWORKING
Network with industry leaders, policymakers and technology providers.
02.
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
Gain deep insights into the latest smart rail innovations and trends.
03.
REAL-WORLD CASE STUDIES
Explore real-world case studies, challenges and success stories.
COLLABORATE
Brainstorm with peers to address common challenges and find innovative solutions.
STAY AHEAD
Stay ahead of the curve in the expanding field of rail and its growth in Canada.
SHOWCASE YOUR COMMITMENT
Showcase your organization’s commitment to sustainability and transit innovation.
AGENDA
Opening and Welcome
VirtualRethinking Rail: Bold ideas for a smarter, more connected Canada with M.P. Philip Lawrence
British Columbia's fast-track vision with ADM Kevin Volk, B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Transit
Hydrogen horizons: Can hydrail transform Canada's sustainable rail future? (Concurrent)
VirtualHydrogen-powered rail is emerging as a promising solution for decarbonizing Canada's transportation sector, particularly for regions where electrification is not feasible. The technology offers a cleaner alternative to diesel-powered trains, with potential benefits for both passenger and freight services. In Canada, hydrogen rail initiatives are progressing with pilot projects demonstrating the viability of hydrogen fuel cell trains for passenger service, highlighting their ability to operate on non-electrified tracks while significantly reducing emissions. However, the widespread adoption of hydrogen rail in Canada faces several challenges. One of the primary obstacles is the development of a comprehensive hydrogen infrastructure, including production, storage and refueling facilities, which is essential to support large-scale operations. This panel will explore the current state of hydrogen rail in Canada, discussing ongoing projects, technological innovations and the opportunities for scaling hydrogen-powered systems nationwide. Experts will delve into how the Canadian rail sector can navigate the technical and logistical hurdles, while also considering the role of hydrogen rail in achieving Canada's sustainability goals.
Cybersecure rail: Safeguarding Canada's systems in an age of digital threats (Concurrent)
VirtualAs Canada's passenger rail systems continue to modernize with digital technologies, the sector is increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats. The integration of advanced operational systems designed to improve efficiency, safety, and passenger experience also exposes critical infrastructure to potential cyberattacks. This panel will explore the current state of cybersecurity in Canada's passenger rail sector, addressing key challenges such as legacy systems that may not meet modern cybersecurity standards, and the growing complexity of interconnected digital systems that expand the potential attack surface. Panelists will discuss the most pressing threats facing Canadian rail, including ransomware attacks, data breaches, and the increasing risk to critical infrastructure. With the rise of cyber incidents globally, including targeted attacks on rail systems in Europe and North America, it’s clear that cybersecurity must be a priority. The discussion will also cover the importance of regulatory compliance and the role of cybersecurity standards in protecting rail systems from emerging threats. Experts will examine strategies for mitigating risk, such as upgrading legacy systems, adopting advanced security technologies, and implementing workforce training programs. Collaboration between government agencies, private-sector stakeholders, and industry experts will also be explored as a critical element in strengthening the resilience of Canada's rail networks. Attendees will gain insights into proactive measures necessary to ensure that Canada's rail networks remain secure, resilient, and safe for passengers in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
Unveiling Alto—Finding the right cadence for Canada's high-speed railvolution
VirtualAlto is set to redefine intercity mobility as Canada’s first high-speed rail network, with trains reaching 300 km/h and linking Toronto, Ottawa, Montréal and Quebec City. This unprecedented project marks a new era in Canadian rail, promising faster, more efficient and sustainable transportation while unlocking economic growth, reducing emissions and reshaping national infrastructure. In this exclusive Fireside Chat, CUTRIC sits down with Alto’s Chief Communications and Engagement Officer, Pierre-Yves Boivin, to discuss the project’s short-, medium- and long-term vision. What will Alto’s development look like in the coming years? How will it integrate with existing transit networks and leverage new rail technologies? What regulatory, financial and operational challenges must be addressed to ensure success? Don't miss this opportunity to engage directly with the team shaping Canada’s next great rail revolution.
Break—Visit our Virtual Exhibitors!
Transport Canada
Centennial College
The other subway: Light-rail transit as the backbone of modern cities
VirtualLight Rail Transit (LRT) systems are pivotal in shaping sustainable urban mobility across Canadian cities, having emerged as a key solution to address growing urban mobility needs. However, widespread adoption is fraught with challenges including escalating costs, construction delays and integration hurdles. This panel delves into the role of technological innovation in LRT and common obstacles encountered in projects, drawing on recent Canadian experiences. Panelists will explore strategies to mitigate such challenges, highlighting lessons learned from past LRT projects to outline the road towards smoother development and implementation. From the common hurdles faced in LRT implementation, such as cost overruns, project delays and technical challenges that can disrupt service, to significant opportunities like LRT systems' potential to drive economic growth by connecting key urban centers, improving accessibility and reducing environmental impacts. Attendees will gain insights into best practices and lessons learned, equipping them to navigate the complexities of LRT projects and contribute to the advancement of sustainable urban transit solutions in Canada. Join us to gain a deeper understanding of how LRT can shape the future of urban mobility in Canada and contribute to more sustainable, livable cities.
From Vision to Reality: Fuel Cell Systems for Hydrogen Rail with Ballard and CPKC
Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) has placed an order for Ballard Power Systems' FCwave™ hydrogen fuel cell engines to power their vehicles in Alberta. The integration of two Ballard FCwave™ zero emissions engines into each CPKC unit will provide a total of approximately 20 MW of clean power, supporting the expansion of CPKC’s successful hydrogen locomotive program. This order builds on a partnership that began in 2021, during which Ballard has already delivered 10 MW of fuel cell engines. These engines have been successfully integrated into hydrogen-powered locomotives for switching and freight service applications in Alberta. The new fuel cell engines will help CPKC further reduce emissions and enhance sustainability in its operations, setting a new standard for clean energy in the rail industry. This collaboration highlights the growing role of hydrogen in decarbonizing heavy-duty transport across Canada.
Break—Visit our Virtual Exhibitors!
Transport Canada
Centennial College
High-Speed Rail in Canada: How are we stacking up? (Concurrent)
Canada has committed to moving forward with high-speed rail (HSR) to connect major cities like Toronto, Ottawa, Montréal, and Quebec City. However, the question remains: Is this ambitious high-speed rail project enough to position Canada as a global leader in rail transportation, alongside the well-established systems in Europe and Asia? As Canada embarks on this significant journey, what are the critical next steps needed to ensure the country’s HSR network meets the demands of its diverse population, geography, and transportation needs? This panel will explore the path ahead for Canada’s high-speed rail future, analyzing the technical, financial, and operational considerations of HSR development. Experts will assess whether Canada can truly catch up to its global counterparts in Europe and Asia, where high-speed rail has long been a cornerstone of national infrastructure. Our discussion will focus on the infrastructure challenges of building new dedicated corridors for HSR, the financial investments required for long-term success, and how the Canadian project can meet the country’s unique needs. Additionally, we’ll explore the lessons Canada can learn from international HSR systems, and whether the vision for Canadian high-speed rail can provide the scale, speed, and connectivity needed to transform national transportation.
Double charge: Integrating heavy-duty bus and coach charging at rail stations nationwide (Concurrent)
VirtualJoin us for an electrifying panel discussion that delves into the seamless integration of battery electric buses with rail station charging equipment. As public transportation undergoes a green revolution, the convergence of electric buses and rail systems offers a promising solution to reduce emissions and enhance urban mobility. This panel will explore the practical and technical challenges of integrating high-capacity charging infrastructure that serves both rail and road-based electric heavy-duty buses and coaches, focusing on the coordination required to make such systems compatible and effective. Experts will delve into the latest innovations in charging technologies, from fast-charging solutions to wireless systems, and discuss how these can be deployed at rail stations to support growing fleets of electric buses and coaches. We'll also consider factors such as power supply demands, grid capacity, and the logistical complexities of managing charging schedules across different transit modes, while addressing the policy considerations of such integration.
Fireside Chat: U.S. trade shifts and the future of Canada’s rail supply chains
VirtualIn the context of a new U.S. administration and the recent imposition of 25% tariffs on Canadian exports, including steel and aluminum, this panel explores the impact of American federal policies, trade regulations and rail infrastructure investments on North America’s integrated rail supply chain. As the U.S. advances major passenger and freight rail projects, Canadian suppliers must navigate new trade barriers, shifting procurement rules, and evolving cross-border partnerships to remain competitive. Panelists will discuss the broader implications of U.S. trade and industrial policies, including how recent tariffs, Buy America restrictions and investment incentives affect cross-border rail operations, supply chain resilience and the movement of goods and technology across Canada. The discussion will also examine the potential of Canada’s own rail infrastructure investments, such as the $3.9 billion Alto high-speed rail project and recent freight rail upgrades in Alberta and British Columbia, in offsetting trade uncertainties and fostering domestic supply chain strength. Additionally, the panel will explore cross-border collaboration, policy alignment and strategies to navigate these challenges, sharing insights into trade policy impacts, procurement opportunities and supply chain adaptations, with a forward-looking perspective on the future of Canada-U.S. rail networks in a rapidly shifting political and economic landscape.
Closing
Our President & CEO, Dr. Josipa Petrunic, shares reflections on the day's insightful discussions and outlines the next steps for advancing Canada's sustainable rail future.
