IHHA Technical Workshops

IHHA2025 Technical Workshops: Inspiring innovative and resilient heavy haul operations

DATE: November 17, 2025

TIME: Starting with morning coffee, networking and registration at 7am before the workshops commence at 8:00am until 5:40pm

LOCATION(S) : Broadmoor Hall

  • Registration Desk: Broadmoor Hall Foyer
  • Workshop: Broadmoor Hall F
  • All Refreshments: Broadmoor Hall E

The IHHA 2025 commences with three (3) specialized technical sessions designed to deliver cutting-edge developments and critical insights for railway engineers across all experience levels. These carefully structured knowledge exchanges will:

  • Accelerate technical proficiency in heavy haul operational parameters and performance optimization
  • Bridge theoretical foundations with practical applications through data-driven case studies
  • Showcase emerging technologies and methodologies transforming heavy haul engineering standards

Engineering heavy haul excellence: Learn from advanced technical tracks

Each session functions as a comprehensive technical deep-dive, where industry-leading engineers and researchers present empirical findings, analytical frameworks, and implementation strategies that define next-generation heavy haul operations. Participants will gain actionable engineering insights applicable to immediate operational challenges while developing advanced competencies for future infrastructure and systems evolution.

Perfect for technical professionals seeking to enhance their engineering toolkit with validated methodologies and evidence-based best practices in the heavy haul domain.

Session 1: Future-proofing rail infrastructure in a changing world
Session 2: Powering the future of heavy haul
Session 3: Global perspectives on train control & automation

Dive into the critical challenges facing heavy haul rail infrastructure:

  • Climate Resilience Masterclass – Discover innovative approaches to extreme weather events
  • Track Buckling Prevention – Learn cutting-edge techniques to combat rising temperatures
  • Sustainability Revolution – Explore de-carbonization strategies reshaping the industry
  • Industry 4.0 Integration – See how smart technologies are transforming track requirements

Next-Gen Maintenance – Unlock methods for building stronger, more sustainable track systems

Explore the energy revolution transforming locomotive power and operations:

  • Alternative Energy Frontiers – Witness the latest breakthroughs in locomotive technology
  • De-carbonization Strategies – Uncover innovative approaches beyond traditional solutions
  • Distributed Power Mastery – Learn how leading railroads are successfully implementing longer trains with DP units

Gain unprecedented access to worldwide train control approaches through expert presentations and interactive panel discussions:

  • Evolution of Control Systems – Trace the fascinating journey from historical methods to today’s solutions
  • Regional Innovation Showcase – Compare approaches across different countries and operating environments
  • Future Horizons – Get an exclusive preview of emerging technologies and methodologies

Learn from the best

Connect with an unparalleled lineup of subject matter experts from prestigious universities, cutting-edge research institutes, leading railroads, and innovative suppliers.

IHHA Technical Workshop Speakers


Dr Dingqing Li
AVP & Chief Scientist, Rail Infrastructure, MxV Rail, USA


Prof Andrew Quinn
Professor of Climate Adaptation, Director of Education, College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Birmingham, UK


Prof Hannes Gräbe
Head of Department, University of Pretoria, South Africa


Prof Ted Sussmann
Associate Professor, University of Hartford, USA


Dr Fabian Hansmann
Head of Marketing, Plasser & Theurer, Austria


Antonio Merheb
Rail Specialist, MRS Logistica, Brazil


Josh Raglin
Chief Sustainability Officer, Norfolk Southern, USA


Dr Stephen Wilk
Principal Investigator II, MxV Rail, USA


Maureen Werner
Vice President Engineering, MxV Rail, USA


Anelise Salzani
Engineering and Maintenance General, MRS Logistica, Brazil


Wynard Botha
Principal Mechanical Engineer, Transnet Freight Rail, South Africa


Leland Le Breton
General Manager – Asset Management – Supply Chain Services, Rio Tinto, Australia


Joe Brosseau
AVP, Communications and Train Control, MxV Rail, USA


Ed Tilley
President, FTW Associates at Fossil Creek, USA


Kate Holling
General Manager Rail,
BHP, Australia


Paulo Vieira
Communications and Train Control Specialist, PxV Rail Consulting, USA


Louise Dornan
Manager Rail Network Capacity,
BHP, Australia


Luke Bolzan
Rail Network Maintenance Manager,
BHP, Australia


Corey Pasta
Scientist – Mechanical Research,
MxV Rail, USA


Karen Carriere
AVP Technical Services, Association of American Railroads (AAR), USA


Christopher Lidberg
Director, Rail Products, Loram, Maintenance of Way, USA

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to elevate your expertise and connect with fellow professionals at the forefront of heavy haul innovation!

The IHHA Technical Workshop is separately bookable. Remember to select and add this event to your conference booking.