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[Nov. 4, 2016]

INDIANAPOLIS – Turmoil in energy markets, the growth of complex distribution networks and the U.S. regulatory framework – these are some of the issues impacting the rail freight transportation industry that will be discussed at the 14th annual Indian Logistics Summit Nov. 16-17 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis.

Dr. Robert E. Martínez, former Associate Deputy Secretary of Transportation for President George H.W. Bush, former Secretary of Transportation for the Commonwealth of Virginia, and current Vice President for Business Development and Real Estate for Norfolk Southern Corp., will kick off the two-day conference with the first of three keynote addresses. Dr. Martínez will look at changes in energy sources and consumption patterns and the ways they have affected the mix of products and commodities handled by the railroads.

“Like so many other industry sectors, the rail industry has not been immune to the outside forces affecting our economy,” Ports of Indiana CEO Rich Cooper said. “Dr. Martínez’s presentation promises to shed light on what railroads in general – and one of the nation’s largest railroads in particular – are doing to adjust to ever-changing markets.  Our audiences always enjoy hearing his highly candid remarks as he never fails to tell it like it is.”

Norfolk Southern is the fourth largest railroad in the U.S., operating the most extensive intermodal network east of the Mississippi River and is a major transporter of coal, automotive and industrial products. Dr. Martínez’s presentation, “U.S. Railroads and the Future,” also will provide a view into how shifting supply chains provide new commercial opportunities for railroads.

The Summit, now in its 14th year, will include an “Election Aftermath” keynote luncheon address by political analyst and humorist Stuart Rothenberg. Discussions on global issues affecting U.S. markets, workforce challenges and strategies and cost-saving measures will be presented by more than 20 executives from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Federal Aviation Administration, Celadon Group, Indiana Department of Transportation, Indiana University Health and more. U.S. Maritime Administrator Paul “Chip” Jaenichen will discuss new shipping opportunities during the Nov. 17 morning keynote.

A special celebration of Indiana’s international logistics and economic ties to countries around the world will take place at 5 p.m. on Nov. 16. This “Global Connections” Reception will feature distinguished guests including Victor Smith, Indiana Secretary of Commerce, Douglas George, Consul General of Canada, and various other international consuls, as well as refreshments and entertainment. This international reception is included in the registration fee, but tickets may also be purchased separately.

To register online or for more information about the 2016 Indiana Logistics Summit, visit www.indianalogistics.com. Registration includes all sessions, receptions, continental breakfast, three keynote addresses and conference materials. Sponsorships and group registrations are available by contacting Liz Folkerts at 317.232.9205.

Hosted by Ports of Indiana, Purdue University and Conexus Indiana, the Indiana Logistics Summit brings together a who’s who of people and organizations involved in all modes of transportation for discussions of critical issues facing the industry. For the first time, engineers and supply chain professionals will be able to earn certification credits at the Summit. The Ports of Indiana is partnering with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) and the Indiana State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers to allow attendees of the conference to earn credits toward maintaining their respective certifications and licenses.

The 2016 Indiana Logistics Summit is made possible by key sponsorships, including Consolidated Grain and Barge, the Indiana Department of Transportation, Indiana Economic Development Corporation and Indianapolis Business Journal.

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Media Contact: Rich Allen, 317-232-9204, rallen@portsofindiana.com