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Women in Rail Award Ceremony

The Women in Rail Awards 2026 edition, co-organised by EU-Rail together with the European Commission, ALE, CER, EIM, ERA and UNIFE, spotlighted outstanding contributions of people and organisations that drove real change and created concrete opportunities for women across the railway sector. The 2026 edition was dedicated to recognising and showcasing projects, initiatives and activities that made an outstanding contribution to advancing the railway industry and facilitating women’s access to it.

The Award Ceremony was held at InnoTrans on Tuesday 22nd of September from 14:45 to 16:00, at the central stage in Hall 4.2.

This year’s winners reflected the talent, commitment and expertise that are helping to make the European railway sector more inclusive, innovative and future-ready.

Award Categories

Women Empowerment and Leadership Award:

🏆Ginès Soro, Captrain (Spain)

Recognised for her commitment to promoting inclusion, leadership and equal opportunities within the railway sector.​

R&I in Railway Award:

🏆Cecília Vale, Universidade do Porto

Recognised for her contribution to research and innovation supporting the advancement of the European rail sector.

Next Generation in Rail Award:

🏆Suzanne Flynn, Irish Rail (Ireland)

Recognised for her contribution to inspiring and encouraging the next generation of women to pursue studies and careers in rail.

Women in Rail Operations Award:

🏆Réka Németh, MAV

Recognised for her operational excellence and contribution to the safety and efficiency of railway operations.

Europe's Rail