2025 Train Fest: A Glimpse into the Future of Rail Travel
The 2025 Train Fest, held at Union Station in downtown Los Angeles on September 20th and 21st, offered attendees a unique and forward-looking experience, thanks to a remarkable project by local high school students. Over 900 people, from young children to older adults, queued up for a virtual journey exploring the future of the California High-Speed Rail.
This ambitious project, developed by students from four local high schools, was a testament to their research, design, and technical skills. The work was divided between two highly collaborative teams, each contributing a vital component to the overall experience.
Team 1 took on the challenge of virtual reality. They meticulously researched the design of the California High-Speed Rail passenger cars and, using a Quest 3 VR headset, created a stunning, life-size virtual model. Attendees could step inside this digital passenger car and experience a realistic preview of what it would be like to ride the high-speed train.
Team 2 brought the virtual design to life in the physical world. Based on Team 1's detailed research and design, they constructed a partial yet full-size physical mockup of an HSR passenger car. This impressive model was capable of seating eight people at a time, allowing visitors to not only see but also feel the scale and design of the future train.
The energy between the two teams provided a comprehensive and engaging experience for the public. The VR component offered an immersive and detailed look at the interior, while the physical mockup provided a tangible space that visitors could interact with. The students' dedication and ingenuity were evident in every detail, from the accuracy of the VR model to the craftsmanship of the physical display.
The success of the student-led exhibition was one of the highlights of the 2025 Train Fest. It not only showcased the talent of our local youth but also provided the community with an exciting glimpse into the future of transportation in California. The students' work served as a powerful reminder of how technology and hands-on application can come together to inspire and educate the public about large-scale infrastructure projects.