News
27 Mar 2026

UNIFE supports launch of 2026 Women in Rail Award: applications are now open

UNIFE is proud to be part of the sector-wide task force supporting the organisation of the 2026 Women in Rail (WIR) Award, in partnership with the European Commission (DG MOVE), the Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking, European Union Agency for Railways (ERA), the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER), the European Rail Infrastructure Managers (EIM), and the Federation of European Train Drivers’ Unions (ALE).

Women remain significantly underrepresented in the railway workforce, accounting for only around 23% of the sector across Europe. In response, the 2026 edition of the Women in Rail Award aims to recognise and celebrate individuals, teams and organisations that are actively driving change and creating meaningful opportunities for women in rail.

The Award will be presented during InnoTrans 2026, highlighting best practices and inspiring initiatives that contribute to a more inclusive, diverse and equitable railway sector.

The 2026 edition will recognise excellence across four categories:

  • Women Empowerment and Leadership Award – Honours organisations or individuals demonstrating strong leadership and measurable progress in advancing gender equality
  • R&I in Railway Award – Recognises outstanding contributions by female researchers or engineers to innovation in the rail sector
  • Next Generation in Rail Award – Highlights initiatives encouraging girls and young women to pursue rail careers
  • Women in Rail Operations Award – Celebrates women in operational roles contributing to safety, efficiency and excellence

Applications and nominations are open until 23 April 2026 at 12:00 CET (noon) and you can apply via the following link.

UNIFE encourages its members and stakeholders to take part in this important initiative and help showcase the talent and achievements of women shaping the future of rail.

UNIFE Director General Enno Wiebe stated: “As the European Rail Supply Industry continues to deliver on digitalisation, innovation and the green transition, attracting and retaining a more diverse workforce is not just a social objective, it is an industrial necessity. A diverse workforce is crucial to driving innovation and ensuring the long-term competitiveness of the European rail supply industry in a rapidly evolving global market. Through our involvement in the Women in Rail Award 2026, UNIFE is proud to highlight the concrete initiatives already making a difference, ranging from cutting-edge research and innovation to frontline operations and skills development. Recognising these achievements is essential for accelerating change and ensuring that more women are empowered to contribute to the future of a competitive and sustainable European rail sector”.

For more information contact Clara Piazza