Monday, October 20, 2025
8:00am – 9:15am
Dr. Cathy Choi
Executive Advisor
Knoxville Locomotive Works
Keynote Title: Why be Enthusiasts of Rail Power Today and in the Future
Abstract: This keynote will explore the importance of Rail transportation and the evolving landscape of Rail locomotive technologies, specifically with a view of propulsion technologies and its implications for the future of locomotive powertrains. We will journey through past technological breakthroughs to current state onto potential futures states. The presentation will provide Rail operational context that informs the audience on drivers for new technology adoption within the Rail community. We will discuss manpower needs, personnel upskilling and address potential societal impacts. At the end of this presentation, attendees will have a clearer understanding of the key technological, market and societal trends in the Rail industry and strategic considerations for their supporting organizations.
Biography: Dr. Cathy Choi is Executive Advisor at Knoxville Locomotive Works and serves the Department of Energy as an appointed member of their Industrial Technology Innovation Advisory Committee. Cathy is also on the Board of Directors of the Advanced Machine and Vehicle Innovation Center. Cathy has more than three decades professional experience, primarily in power generation and transportation technology and product development. She has incubated and grown international research and development teams and led numerous, global product launches that span power ranges from 160 kW to 16.8 MW. Cathy earned her Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison specializing in combustion and emissions formation and alternative fuels research.
Tuesday, October 21, 2025
8:00am – 9:15am
Alexander Leitner-Audoui
VP Engineering Waukesha
INNIO Waukesha Gas Engines Inc.
Keynote Title: Powering Progress: The Evolution and Future of Stationary Gas Engines
Abstract: From lighting the first city streets to driving today's energy transition, stationary gas engines have been at the heart of industrial innovation for over a century. This keynote explores the fascinating journey of gas engines—from their historical roots to their pivotal role in modern power generation, gas compression, industry, and beyond. We'll dive into the remarkable diversity of applications, from combined heat and power plants to remote microgrids, and examine the expanding range of fuels, including biogas and hydrogen, that are shaping a cleaner, more resilient energy future. Join us as we uncover why stationary gas engines remain indispensable assets, powering progress in a rapidly changing world.