In this annual Platform Chats tradition, host Walt Bleser welcomes AREMA President Jerry Specht, EIT, Assistant General Manager South S&C Operations, CPKC, and Senior Vice President David Clark, PE, Director Construction Engineering, CSX Transportation, for a conversation about leadership, collaboration, and what's ahead for AREMA as the Association prepares for its annual leadership transition.

Jerry reflects on a busy year that included efforts to expand the Association's presence in Mexico through Spanish-language publications and stronger connections with railroad professionals across North America.

Looking ahead, David shares his focus on collaboration, strengthening AREMA's international relationships, and building on opportunities to connect railroad professionals worldwide.

The episode also previews the Annual Conference & Expo in Kansas City and highlights what makes AREMA special: bringing together some of the rail industry's brightest minds to share ideas, solve challenges, and learn from one another. 

Bottom line: AREMA's future is built on collaboration, connection, and expanding its impact—one conference, one committee, and, if Jerry and David have anything to say about it, a few more countries along the way.