Katie Vollbracht provides strategic oversight across some of Scotland’s most significant and complex rail programmes.

In this opening keynote, Katie will set the scene for the day—looking at ambition, accountability, and what delivery success truly looks like in today’s rail environment.

This panel will explore how clearly priorities are defined, how funding aligns with ambition, and what delivery expectations really look like in practice—for passengers, freight, policy objectives, and the wider economy.

Our first strategic partner session explores how data, intelligence, and technology can support the rail industry in moving from reactive decision‑making to predictive insight.

Jenny Hudson, Managing Director, Transmission Dynamics and Prof. Jarek Rosinski, Founder and Executive Chairman, Transmission Dynamics

Scotland’s railway is on the brink of a technological leap.

But only if innovators can break through the barriers which have held back progress for decades.

Our next panel brings together the disruptors, strategists, and engineering visionaries who are challenging the status quo - and reshaping the future of rail.

From AI-driven operations to next‑generation signalling, ambitious SMEs are pushing bold ideas.

But in a safety‑critical, standards-bound industry, the path from prototype to real‑world deployment can feel like navigating a maze.

Tier 1 contractors play a pivotal role in shaping who delivers Scotland’s rail investment—and how.

This session offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from senior leaders about what they look for in partners, where suppliers often go wrong, and how credibility is built over time.

“Rolling stock decisions shape rail performance, passenger experience, and cost for decades.

Jon Newton will provide valuable insight into fleet procurement, delivery challenges, and what the future investment pipeline looks like.

Service delivery is where strategy meets the passenger experience—every single day.

Mark Ilderton will discuss performance, expectations, and the practical realities of operating Scotland’s railway.

This session will explore pipeline visibility, procurement clarity, and how organisations can position themselves earlier and more effectively.

It aims to help suppliers understand where opportunities genuinely lie, what buyers are looking for, and how clearer communication on pipelines and procurement can support a more resilient and competitive Scottish rail supply chain.

Ross Moran will reflect on leadership, delivery priorities, and the future direction of Scotland’s Railway.

Our final panel takes on one of the most important challenges facing the sector—how SMEs can secure meaningful, sustained roles in Scotland’s rail investment programmes – and unlock Scotland’s £4.8 billion pound revolution.

This will be a practical, honest, and solution‑focused discussion with some leading lights in the industry.