Strengthening Bonds and Shaping the Future at GRNA Annual Days 2025
Each year, the team members of Global Rail North America come together for our “Annual Days” to connect, share ideas and learn from each other. Known for its rich culture and history, New Orleans provided the perfect setting for bringing together our international team for this year’s event.
Day 1: Friendly Competition and a Walking Tour
The first day started off with an interactive warm-up activity, a guessing game that had everyone joining the dots on everything they knew about their colleagues. Who used to be a soccer referee? Who delivered newspapers? A little friendly competition helped to set the tone for the days ahead.
Then came the time for strategic discussions – sharing 2025’s initiatives & plans for Europe with the North American team, discussing key developments for Global Rail North America along with paving the strategy for the market.
After a well-deserved lunch break, it was time for some breakout sessions where the teams got together in small groups to reflect on the previous year’s projects. From on-the-job challenges to lessons learnt, areas of growth, to forward-looking initiatives – these sessions gave everyone some food for thought.
Day 1 closed off with the team taking in New Orleans’ vibrant streets, with stops at historic spots like Bourbon Street and Jackson Square. As a New Orleans local, Adam Sohasky, General Manager Global Rail North America, donned the role of tour guide, sharing the city’s rich history.
Day 2: Hands-On Learning
After a good night’s sleep, the agenda for day two was set – personnel development led by our COO, Gabrielle Costigan followed by corporate & international team synergies by Julie Anjos, the North America’s Business Operations Supervisor.
A standout moment of the day was an on-site equipment workshop led by Teever and Casslynn. The session featured a gauge bar – not something that you’ll expect in a general hotel setting! Seeing the equipment up close and discussing its role in railway operations made for an insightful and engaging session, even for those already familiar with the technical side of the industry.
Looking back, the 2025 North American Annual Days were full of great conversations, teamwork, and valuable insights. We’re glad to have left with new ideas, stronger connections, and memories to carry with us. A big thank you to everyone that participated and helped make the event a success. This kind of energy and enthusiasm keeps us motivated as we move forward together. Until next time!
