Kraków, Poland, played host to the 2025 Women in Rail Awards, an event that combined prestige with purpose, marking a new chapter for diversity and innovation in the European railway sector. Organized alongside the European Rail Safety Days, the awards ceremony was supported by the European Commission, the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA), and Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking (EU-Rail).
Beyond the celebration of talent and innovation, the event also drew international visitors, shining a spotlight on Kraków as a growing hub for conferences, culture, and tourism. The city’s historic charm, paired with modern infrastructure, offered an ideal backdrop for this high-profile gathering.
Empowering Women in the Railway Sector
The Women in Rail Award is designed to recognize and honor outstanding professionals and organizations driving progress in gender equality, education, and technical advancement within the railway industry. This year’s ceremony introduced a new highlight—the Next Generation Rail Award—celebrating initiatives that nurture young female talent from early education through professional careers.
The emphasis on empowering girls and young women illustrates the sector’s growing commitment to inclusivity. By showcasing role models in leadership and innovation, the awards aim to inspire a new wave of professionals to enter what has long been a male-dominated industry.
Spotlight on Award Winners
The 2025 Women in Rail Awards honored winners across four categories, each highlighting excellence in different aspects of the railway industry:
- Leadership and Mentoring: Federica Santini from Trenitalia was recognized for her transformative leadership, opening doors for women across the rail sector.
- Research and Innovation: Jeanne-Marie Dalbavie of IKOS Lab Consulting earned acclaim for her pioneering contributions to engineering and cutting-edge rail technology.
- Women Empowerment: Diana Binnenpoorte of ProRail received recognition for her efforts in ensuring equal opportunities for women to advance their careers.
- Next Generation in Rail: The award went jointly to Kerstin Wagner and Franciska Manck from DB, Ciaran Masterson from Irish Rail, and Ángeles Tauler Alcaraz from Fundación de los Ferrocarriles Españoles. Their work in outreach and mentorship is inspiring girls and women aged 6–25 to explore opportunities in the railway sector.
These winners exemplify how leadership, innovation, and education can transform not only workplaces but also the future of transport in Europe.
Progress Toward Gender Equality
The accompanying 2025 Women in Rail Report revealed encouraging signs of progress. Women now account for 23% of railway employees, up from 21% in 2018. Moreover, 80% of surveyed companies have adopted gender equality policies, signaling a significant cultural shift across the European railway network.
Notably, women are increasingly entering roles once considered off-limits, including train drivers, traffic managers, and on-board staff. Managerial positions are also seeing greater female representation, an essential step toward closing the gender gap.
Kraków as a Tourism and Conference Destination
While the awards focused on rail industry achievements, Kraków itself emerged as a winner. The city’s historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provided attendees with cultural experiences alongside the professional program. Visitors enjoyed landmarks such as Wawel Castle, the Cloth Hall, and St. Mary’s Basilica, while local hospitality showcased Polish traditions and modern amenities.
The influx of international delegates also highlighted Kraków’s potential as a hub for business tourism. Its well-connected rail and air links make it a prime location for international conferences, blending heritage with modern facilities. Local businesses, from hotels to restaurants, benefited from the event, demonstrating how cultural and professional tourism go hand in hand.
Institutional Support for a Sustainable Future
The event underscored the role of institutions like the European Commission, ERA, and EU-Rail in shaping the future of the industry. Their collaboration with rail operators, advocacy groups, and educational bodies continues to strengthen the sector’s inclusivity and sustainability goals.
Promoting diversity not only enriches the workforce but also fuels innovation. A gender-balanced rail industry is better positioned to tackle challenges such as digitalization, safety, and environmental sustainability.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 Women in Rail Awards were more than a celebration; they were a roadmap for the future. By recognizing women who lead, innovate, and inspire, the awards set the stage for a railway industry that is more inclusive, dynamic, and sustainable.
For Kraków, hosting such a prestigious event reinforced its reputation as both a cultural treasure and a modern conference destination. The city’s blend of heritage and innovation mirrors the very values celebrated at the awards: tradition meeting progress.
As the rail industry continues to evolve, the commitment to gender equality and educational empowerment will remain crucial. The Women in Rail initiative not only strengthens the sector but also ensures that future generations of women see rail as a place where they can thrive.
Conclusion
The 2025 Women in Rail Awards in Kraków symbolized progress, unity, and innovation. By combining recognition of trailblazing professionals with the promotion of Kraków as a tourism hotspot, the event showcased how culture, inclusivity, and industry growth are interwoven.
With initiatives like these, Europe’s railway sector is positioning itself as a global leader in diversity and sustainability. And for Kraków, the legacy of the event will extend beyond the awards, cementing its role as a destination where history, innovation, and international collaboration converge.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
