Women in Rail Award 2025
Applications open for the Women in Rail Award 2025
UNIFE is pleased to support the launch of the 2025 Women in Rail Award, a joint initiative by the European Commission’s Women in Transport Platform, in cooperation with Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking (EU-Rail), the 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).
Despite the fact women make up half of all rail passengers, they continue to represent only around 20% of the European rail workforce. This underrepresentation underscores the importance of recognising and promoting the women who are shaping the future of the sector, and ensuring that careers in rail remain attractive and accessible to all.
Launched as part of the Women in Transport Platform and building on the ambitions of the Women in Rail Agreement, the 2025 edition of the award will honour individuals, teams, and organisations who have made an outstanding contribution to gender diversity, innovation, and leadership in the rail sector.
Four categories will be awarded in 2025:
- Women Empowerment Award
Recognises a European rail company or organisation that has gone above and beyond in embedding gender equality into its culture, decision-making, and operations - Leadership and Mentoring Award
Celebrates a woman who has shown exceptional leadership and made a measurable difference through mentoring and supporting women within the rail sector - Research and Innovation Award
Highlights the achievements of a woman whose work in research, engineering, or innovation has significantly advanced the competitiveness and attractiveness of European rail - Next Generation in Rail Award
Acknowledges impactful educational initiatives or outreach activities that empower girls and young women (ages 6–25) to explore and pursue careers in rail
Applications are now open and can be submitted by individuals, companies, and organisations across the European rail community. The deadline to apply is 6 June 2025 (midnight CEST). The winners will be formally recognised at the European Rail Safety Days 2025 in Kraków, Poland, on 1 October, where they will have the opportunity to present their work and participate in high-level stakeholder events, networking sessions, and discussions on the future of rail in Europe.
This award initiative is a testament to the EU rail sector’s commitment to building a more inclusive and diverse workforce—one that is fit to address the challenges and opportunities of the green and digital transitions.
“Driving gender diversity is not just about fairness – it’s about strengthening the industry through inclusive leadership, innovation, and a workforce that truly reflects our society. We are proud to continue supporting the Women in Rail Award and to champion the incredible women moving rail forward.” stated UNIFE Director General Enno Wiebe.
How to apply, and more information can be found here and here.
