Registration is now open for the 2026 Railway Tie Association (RTA) Member Field Trip, set for June 8–11 in Union City, Tenn., with site visits across western Tennessee and Kentucky. Built around the wood tie educational journey from tree to track, the trip gives attendees a clear look at each stage of the process. 

The field trip kicks off Monday evening with the RTA Safety & Materials Processing (SMP) Committee meeting, which is open to all members, followed by a welcome reception. 

Things get underway Tuesday with a focus on the earlier stages of the wood tie lifecycle. The group will visit an active logging operation, then head to a sawmill to see how logs are processed into ties. After a midday program and lunch at Paris Landing, attendees will take part in a teambuilding activity before wrapping up the day with a visit to a second sawmill. 

On Wednesday, the focus shifts to how ties are prepared for use in track. The group will travel to Guthrie, Ky., for a tour of the Koppers Inc. treating plant, followed by a program and lunch. The day continues with a visit to Progress Rail Services in Mayfield, Ky., featuring a look at how rail infrastructure components come together in the field. The trip concludes with bowling and a closing reception back in Union City. 

The field trip wraps up Thursday with departures at attendees’ leisure. 

To make reservations at the Hampton Inn Union City, call the hotel directly at (731) 507-0600 and ask for the RTA room block. Rooms are $124 plus tax. 

The RTA Member Field Trip is designed to bring the wood tie story into focus, while also giving attendees the chance to connect with industry peers. Registration is $500 and is open now HERE.