FAQ
The Innovation Train: Business Continuity in Motion
Attendee Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
General Event Info
- What is "The Innovation Train: Business Continuity in Motion"?
"The Innovation Train" is a joint regional networking and educational experience brought to you by WBEC-West. Attendees board the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner from either Los Angeles or San Diego, network with fellow women business owners and corporate members during the ride, and meet at Plaza Magdalena in San Juan Capistrano, CA, for lunch, networking, and an insightful panel discussion on business continuity and risk management.
- When and where is the event taking place?
- Date: Thursday, November 19, 2026
- Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM PST
- Destination Venue: Plaza Magdalena, 31781 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Travel & Transportation
- Do I have to take the train to participate?
While attendees are welcome to drive directly to the venue at Plaza Magdalena, taking the train is strongly encouraged! The train ride is designed to be a major part of the event experience, offering structured and casual networking opportunities with fellow WBEs and corporate leaders en route.
- Where do I board the train?
Option 1: Train + Lunch (Los Angeles)
Board at Union Station, Los Angeles.
- Includes round-trip train travel and event admission
- Exclusive onboard networking with corporate supplier diversity leaders and fellow women business owners
- Complimentary parking available at Metropolitan Water District, conveniently located across from Union Station
- Must board with the group at Union Station
Option 2: Train + Lunch (San Diego)
Board at Santa Fe Depot, San Diego.
- Includes round-trip train travel and event admission
- Exclusive onboard networking with corporate supplier diversity leaders and fellow women business owners
- Park near any San Diego Trolley station and take the trolley to Santa Fe Depot to meet and board with the group. Following the event, you may depart the train at the station most convenient for your trip home.
- Must board with the group at Santa Fe Depot
Option 3: Lunch Only
Meet us in San Juan Capistrano.
- Event admission and luncheon only
- Transportation not included
- Ideal for attendees who prefer to arrange their own travel
IMPORTANT:
To participate in the Innovation Train experience, attendees must board with their selected group at the designated departure location. Los Angeles attendees board at Union Station and San Diego attendees board at Santa Fe Depot.
- Exact station boarding times and train schedule details will be provided prior to the event date to coordinate group travel.
- Is train ticket pricing included in the event registration?
Please check your registration details on the event portal. Depending on your registration tier, ticket options may include both your train fare and venue access, or venue admission with separate train ticketing.
- Is parking available if I choose to drive?
Yes. For those driving, parking is available in downtown San Juan Capistrano near Plaza Magdalena. Detailed parking recommendations will be sent out in the "Know Before You Go" email prior to event day.
Programming & Agenda
- What can I expect from the program at Plaza Magdalena?
Once both the LA and San Diego groups arrive, we will gather for:
- A dynamic panel discussion featuring business leaders and continuity experts.
- Key insights on managing technology/cybersecurity risks, supply-chain disruptions, workforce changes, financial instability, and natural disasters.
- A hosted lunch and structured networking session.
- Practical strategies and tools to build resilience and drive business growth.
- What is the dress code?
Business Casual. Comfortable footwear is recommended for a short walk between the train station and the venue.
Registration & Policies
- Who should attend this event?
This event is tailored for certified Women Business Enterprises (WBEs), corporate members, prime contractors, and women business leaders (non WBEs) looking to build strategic partnerships and strengthen their business continuity plans.
- What if I have dietary restrictions?
When registering on EventMatches, please indicate any dietary restrictions or food allergies so we can accommodate your needs for lunch.
- Who can I contact if I have questions on event day?
For questions regarding the event, schedule, or train group coordination, please reach out to the WBEC-West team at [email protected] or contact your regional Forum leaders. Shannon Kehrer (LA Forum Chair [email protected] or Janet Lienhard (SD Forum Chair) [email protected]