Rail is an essential transportation mode! Come and learn why rail is the most energy-efficient transportation mode and how effective it is compared to other modes in reducing transportation greenhouse gas emissions. Also, come and learn about the elements and operations of a modern rail transport system. Learn these and more through interactive lessons, hands-on activities, and field visits to all sorts of railroad facilities!
2024 Program
This was the first year Tracks to the Future was hosted at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and was in partnership with Michigan Technological University. It was a full week program, split between two days of virtual classes, a travel day, and on-location activities.
2025 Program
Held from Wednesday, June 18, through Friday, June 20th, Tracks to the Future was hosted in partnership with Union Pacific, BNSF Railway, HDR, David Evans and Associates Inc., Nebraska Department of Transportation, and Olsson. Students met with rail engineers, met professionals from both the public and private sector, toured active rail facilities, and participated in hands-on activities on UNL campus.
