The AREMA Student Chapter at Penn State Altoona connects RTE students with industry professionals, alumni, and peers. Through field trips, guest speakers, and events like the AREMA Annual Conference, students gain valuable knowledge, networking opportunities, and career connections.
RTE students gain hands-on experience through field trips, including riding Amtrak’s geometry car and learning track maintenance along the Northeast Corridor. With direct access to industry connections, students enjoy unmatched exposure by visiting passenger companies, freight transporters, suppliers, manufacturers, and more.
Students gain real-world experience through lab courses with rail equipment, undergraduate research, internships with top companies, and rail-focused capstone projects. They also participate in unique competitions and career discussions to prepare for the rail industry.
Located near the iconic Horseshoe Curve and Class I railroads, shortlines, and suppliers, Penn State Altoona puts you at the heart of U.S. railroading with access to top industry connections and hands-on opportunities.
Penn State Altoona faculty are leading a $6.87 million national research initiative, funded by the Federal Railroad Administration, to launch a research initiative called Rail CREST. This center will develop affordable technologies to enhance the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of short-line and regional railroads, which are critical to local economies.