Ontario Tech University Launches Canada’s First English-Language Railway Engineering Program

NOVEMBER 28, 2025

On Friday, November 28, Ontario Tech University officially launched Canada’s first English-language undergraduate Railway Engineering Specialization — a significant step forward for Canada’s growing passenger rail and transit sector. Supported by industry partners Alstom and AtkinsRéalis, the program is designed to prepare students for the full lifecycle of modern rail systems, including infrastructure development, track design, signalling, rolling stock management, transportation planning, and safety protocols.

The launch event brought together academic leaders and key industry representatives, including Laurence Lebel (AtkinsRéalis) and Vincent-Pierre Giroux (Alstom), underscoring the strong partnership between education and industry.

TRACCS was grateful to be invited, and we were pleased to see Sarah El Kontar, Program Director at CMAI, in attendance to welcome the new cohort and connect with potential partners for their bursary program supporting students pursuing careers in the railway sector.

This milestone reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Canada’s rail talent pipeline and supporting the next generation of industry leaders.