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Membership

Join a Dynamic Network of Railway Professionals

ARDA members come from a variety of backgrounds and professions, all connected by a shared commitment to advancing the railway industry. Whether you’re an established professional, a company leader, or someone just starting out in the field, you’ll find a welcoming space within ARDA’s vibrant community.

As a member, you’ll engage in valuable conversations on industry challenges, connect with forward-thinking leaders, and contribute your own insights to discussions that help advance railway development. With full voting rights and opportunities to help steer ARDA’s direction, your membership ensures you're not just informed but actively involved in the growth and progress of this vital organization.

Whether you’re looking to connect with peers, stay current on trends, or contribute your expertise, ARDA offers a welcoming space where collaboration and shared growth are at the heart of everything we do.

Membership Types

Membership terms are annual, running from September through August, with dues set at $150 per year.

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Active Members

  • New Individual Member: First-time members joining ARDA.
  • Individual Member: Existing members renewing their memberships.
  • Company Member: Memberships purchased in bulk by a company for their employees.
  • Sponsors - Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze Members: Sponsoring companies that receive a set number of complimentary memberships, with the option to purchase additional memberships in bulk.

Benefits of Active Membership

  • Influence and Leadership: Enjoy full voting rights on ARDA matters, with eligibility to hold leadership positions within the organization, giving you a direct role in shaping ARDA’s future and initiatives.
  • Exclusive Event Discounts: Receive discounted registration fees for ARDA’s premier events, including the Annual Meeting and Executive Forum, where industry leaders gather to discuss key trends and advancements.
  • Comprehensive Resources: Gain access to all ARDA events, newsletters, and educational resources designed to keep you informed and connected.

How to Join

To become an Active Member of the ARDA community, simply select the membership category that best reflects your position and submit your application along with the annual dues.

Note: Active Members include various categories, but all enjoy the same benefits within ARDA.
This membership type encompasses individuals, company members, and sponsors at all levels.

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Honorary Members

Honorary Membership is conferred on individuals who have made distinguished contributions to ARDA and are elected by a majority vote of the Executive Committee or Past Presidents.

Benefits & Eligibility

  • Benefits: Complimentary lifetime membership, including access to ARDA’s resources and business sessions, with the option to pay for voting rights at the standard member rate.
  • Eligibility: Past Presidents of ARDA or individuals recognized for exceptional service to the association.
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Retired Members

Retired Members are individuals who have transitioned from active employment but wish to maintain their connection to ARDA.

Benefits & Eligibility

  • Benefits: Complimentary lifetime membership, including access to ARDA’s resources and business sessions, with the option to pay for voting rights at the standard member rate.
  • Eligibility: Active members retiring from employment who wish to transition to Retired Member status.

How to Apply

Submit a written application to the Executive Committee upon retirement. Approval is subject to a majority vote by the Executive Committee.

Grow ARDA and Earn Rewards with Our Member Referral Program!

At ARDA, we believe that growth happens through connection. That’s why we’re excited to offer our Member Referral Program—a rewarding way for you to help expand our community and earn a little something in return.

When you refer a new member, and they join ARDA, you’ll receive a $25 Amazon Gift Card as a thank-you. It’s easy to participate: simply share your positive ARDA experience, and ask the new member to list your name on their membership application.

Plus, there’s no limit to the number of referrals you can make—meaning unlimited rewards! Whether it’s a colleague, friend, or industry contact, your referral not only strengthens our organization but also brings new perspectives and ideas into the ARDA community.

Thank you for supporting ARDA and being an essential part of our growth!

Track to Success: ARDA’s Mentor/Buddy Program

We’re excited to introduce Track to Success, a new initiative designed to welcome and support new members as they join ARDA. Through this program, experienced members serve as mentors, guiding newcomers in navigating our organization, connecting with peers, and feeling at home in the ARDA community.

As a mentor, you’ll help new members make the most of their ARDA experience. New members can also sign up to be paired with a mentor to receive valuable guidance and support.

Whether you’re an experienced member or a new one, we encourage you to get involved. Apply today to become a mentor or request a mentor and start building connections!

Company Memberships: Invest in Your Team's Professional Growth

As part of our commitment to fostering industry collaboration and development, ARDA now offers Company Memberships. This membership option allows organizations to purchase multiple memberships, providing access to ARDA's resources and events for a team of professionals. Whether you're looking to engage a group of leaders in railway development or extend professional growth opportunities across your organization, Company Memberships offer an ideal solution.

Sponsor Members can also take advantage of Company Memberships to include additional employees, beyond the complimentary memberships provided with sponsorship. Enhance your company’s presence within ARDA, encourage active participation, and ensure your team stays informed and connected. Corporate Sponsors can add additional memberships at the time of their sponsorship renewal.

Non-Sponsor Companies interested in taking advantage of this option can use the form below to express interest.