Finalists 2025
Click on the award categories below to view people who have become finalists for this year's RailStaff Awards. Their full nominations will then be sent to our esteemed panel of judges. The judges will carefully review all Finalist nominations against the judging criteria and will determine the Winner for each category.
We look forward to celebrating with you on 27th November 2025!
If you would like to share your attendance on social media, please find the marketing toolkit available here. If you've become a finalist and want to know what happens next, click here!
Download the list of finalists by Company Name Order here.
15
APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AWARD
This award recognises outstanding apprentices who have made a remarkable impact early in their rail industry careers. Judges will be looking for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional talent, dedication, and commitment to learning.
Example job titles include:
HSEQ Business Partner Apprentice, Apprentice Signalling Designer, Supply Chain Apprentice, Trainee Train Driver, Apprentice Project Manager, Trainee Train Service Manager.
You can see all the past winners here.
Ben Stone
Company Name
South Western Railway
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Ben started as an apprentice working in Bournemouth with the Duty Resource Managers, but has always been willing to take on additional tasks to help his colleagues and our customers.
In late July we received notice that services in the West of England would have to be significantly amended due to soil moisture deficit in the area west of Salisbury and the implementation of speed restrictions. Due to the fact that this was outside of the normal train planning timescales, for the first three weeks of the plan, it was led by the SWR Resources and Control teams.
Ben played a pivotal role in creating and editing diagrams for crew. He worked to manually create the Mon-Fri diagrams for Salisbury and Yeovil crew within three days without the use of software. This involved a lot of hand typing calling patterns, arrival and departure times as well as ensuring head codes as well as stock and actions were correct on all these diagrams. After this he was then given the task of completing Saturday only and Sunday only diagrams within four days. Ben worked tirelessly to get this completed with support from the team along the way. He then reviewed the diagrams following scrutiny from local union reps as well as colleagues at the Salisbury DRM office to ensure that the diagrams were compliant and aligned with base rosters. Over the three week period the diagrams were amended and improved, until a point where the team were able to hand over to the train planning unit.
Ben has gone above and beyond what is expected of an apprentice and rose to the challenge presented, which he tackled with a great attitude and he worked relentlessly to ensure the train service for SWR customers was as reliable as possible in challenging circumstances.
He has shown great aptitude for the role and we are pleased to say has since be successful in his application to become a DRM at Basingstoke to continue his railway career following the conclusion of his apprenticeship.
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Benjamin Robbins
Company Name
Transport for Wales
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Ben started as a Infrastructure Project Support Officer Apprentice at Transport for Wales in 2024.
We are nominating Ben due to his ongoing proactive leadership skills that he has developed and built on throughout his role over the last 12 months. Ben is a great member of the team and highly deserves recognition.
Ben has supported the Infrastructure Project Director in supporting the development of the knowledge share programme for the PM community within Infrastructure. He has taken ownership of planning and co ordinating the delivery of the knowledge share sessions, with three sessions successfully held to date, focused on APM competencies and how they apply to TfW.
He has also led in mapping current staff skills and competencies against the APM assessment framework and he has owned the development of our 2025 training plan, which supports the infrastructure team with development areas identified.
In addition to supporting infrastructure wide workstreams, Ben has also been supporting on specific major projects being delivered by Transport for Wales infrastructure teams. One example is a multi million pound Bogie Drop facility and Canton Maintenance depot in Cardiff. During construction Ben has been a key member of the project team, working collaboratively with the Principal Contractor, joining site walkarounds and progress meetings.
On one site visit Ben resolved an issue surrounding fluid and diesel transfer to the Bogie Drop. The locations of pumps would inaccessible to staff members when the Bogie Drop is completed. This required the tanks, pumps and associated pipework to be moved and in all likelihood, would have needed equipment upgrade/replacement. The cost of these works could have exceeded £150k.
Thanks to a fresh set of eyes and Ben’s willingness to challenge the current approach he suggested an alternate route to the existing fuel point that could also support fork lift access. Neither designers, engineers, PM’s, or principal contractors had spotted this option. As such the equipment remained in place and the change to access incurred no cost increase. Ben saved the project a lot of money and a lot of design time.
Ben has also had exposure and supported the Cardiff Central Enhancement Project and Cardiff Cross Rail projects which are major infrastructure projects for Wales and the city. Ben supported the integration of TfW’s Metro Central Programme (circa ~£400M of investment with complex funding and stakeholder environment and multi-agency delivery) at a critical time during a staff shortage. Ben took ownership of managing the security stakeholders and TfW’s security consultant and was able to arrange workshops with 30+ attendees from 9 different organisations, ultimately securing the outcomes required to bring the Programme into full compliance with national security regulations. Without Ben’s support it is unlikely that we would have been able to achieve that for another 6 months which would have caused a direct delay to the projects and possibly to ongoing operations at Wales’ largest station.
Ben has shown an eagerness to work outside of his comfort zone and fully deserves the recognition of this award.
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Cameron Patel
Company Name
Central Rail Systems Alliance (CRSA)
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Cameron Patel has shown exceptional commitment, professionalism, and initiative as an apprentice at CRSA. Beyond excelling in his own training, Cameron has made a meaningful impact by working closely with students from the University of Wolverhampton. His dedication to mentoring, knowledge-sharing, and collaborative projects has inspired peers, supported the professional development of future engineers, and strengthened CRSA’s relationship with the academic community.
Cameron embodies the qualities of an outstanding apprentice: dedication, initiative, and a genuine passion for supporting others. His contributions go beyond his own learning journey—he has uplifted fellow students, acted as a bridge between academia and industry, and showcased the value of apprenticeships as a platform for growth and innovation. Recognising Cameron through this award would celebrate not only his achievements but also the power of apprenticeships to make a lasting difference.
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Chloe Draper
Company Name
Network Rail
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I am excited and proud to nominate Chloe Draper for the Apprentice of the Year award. Over the past year, Chloe has demonstrated remarkable growth, exceptional skill, and unwavering dedication to her apprenticeship in project management within the rail industry. Her performance stands out not only for her technical abilities, but also for her leadership, teamwork, and commitment to promoting diversity within the business. She is eager to learn, share her experiences and apply herself with enthusiasm and a smile.
She has demonstrated remarkable dedication, an eagerness to learn, and an unwavering commitment to promoting diversity and health and well-being within our team and our colleagues within the supply chain. Her outstanding contributions not only elevate her own performance but also foster an inclusive environment that encourages everyone to thrive.
She has shown an exceptional willingness to absorb knowledge and skills relevant to the rail industry. She actively engages in training sessions and workshops, eagerly asking questions to deepen her understanding of technical concepts and Network Rail's processes. This proactive approach to learning has positioned her as a promising future leader in the industry, where adaptability and continuous improvement are vital. This year her performance was recognised by achieving an Exceeded rating, putting Chloe in the top 20% performers within Network Rail nationally.
Her passion is infectious, often inspiring her peers to take greater interest in their roles. Whether it is during team discussions or collaborative projects, she consistently brings a positive attitude that enhances group dynamics and boosts morale. Her ability to motivate others is complemented by her excellent listening skills; she not only hears the ideas and concerns of her colleagues but actively engages with them to find effective solutions. This thoughtful approach ensures that everyone's voice is valued, fostering a culture of mutual respect and collaboration. This has been particularly evident on the LAIP 2 project at Bradford Forster Square Rail Station where we are designing and constructing new rail infrastructure and Platform 0 to accommodate LNER train services direct between London to Bradford.
Chloe has an exceptional grasp of asset management and the project life cycle, skills that are crucial in ensuring the successful delivery of design deliverables. Her keen analytical mind allows her to assess project requirements meticulously and her methodical approach ensures that tasks are completed efficiently. She has been actively involved in several projects, contributing to various phases, from initial concept development to final execution and post-implementation evaluation. This has been evident on the re opening of the Northumberland line project which now sees new train services linking communities in the Northeast of England, the first time since the 1950's. I wholeheartedly support her nomination and look forward to seeing her continue to thrive and inspire others in her career and for me to be involved in her development to achieve her goals.
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Jack Rhodes
Company Name
Alstom
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I am pleased to nominate Jack Rhodes for the Apprentice of the Year award, recognizing his outstanding contributions and exemplary performance since joining ALSTOM in September 2022. Jack has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and an innovative spirit throughout his apprenticeship journey.
Key Achievements:
1. Comprehensive Production Experience: Jack began his career at ALSTOM on the Roof stage in production, where he rapidly gained valuable experience by rotating through all stages of the production line. His involvement in the West Midlands build exemplifies his versatility and readiness to engage in complex projects.
2. Quality Assurance Initiatives: In his current placement within the Quality department, Jack took charge of a critical project focused on investigating the Closed Feedback Loop for the West Midlands project. He not only identified the issues but also effectively delegated tasks across various functions, showcasing his strong problem-solving skills and ability to collaborate across departments.
3. Leadership and Team Management: Demonstrating his leadership capabilities, Jack currently manages a team in Bangalore, guiding them in delivering quality outputs for the Cairo customer. His success in coordinating multinational teams highlights his exceptional communication and organizational skills.
4. Active Involvement in Apprentice Community: As the chair of the Level 3 Apprentice Forum, Jack has fostered a supportive environment for his peers, ensuring their voices and concerns are heard. His addition to the High-Speed Rail Group Apprentice Network further illustrates his commitment to professional development and networking.
5. Recognition and Qualifications: His nomination for Apprentice of the Year in 2023 reflects the respect he has garnered from colleagues and supervisors alike. Being highly commended in the Alstom Apprentice of the Year 2024 further underscores his ongoing achievements. Moreover, attaining the Level 3 problem-solving qualification and successfully managing an 8D project during his time on the West Midlands project demonstrate his strong analytical abilities and proactive approach.
6. Outreach and Representation: Jack had the honour of introducing the 2024 cohort of apprentices, sharing his experiences and inspiring future talent in our organization. His recent participation as a panel speaker at the Rail Reception during the Labour Party Conference, alongside prominent figures such as the deputy transport minister, showcases his ability to represent ALSTOM positively in high-stakes environments.
In conclusion, Jack exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding apprentice through his achievements, leadership, and active participation in various initiatives within ALSTOM. I strongly believe that he deserves the title of Apprentice of the Year, and I wholeheartedly recommend his nomination.
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Katie Garvin
Company Name
Transport for Wales
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I am proud to nominate Katie Garvin for Apprentice of the Year at the Rail Staff Awards. Katie has shown outstanding commitment in everything she does and has become a key member of both the Early Talent and wider HR teams.
Katie’s journey has been especially inspiring. She began her apprenticeship with little confidence and faced an uncertain start when her manager left the business, leaving her without clear direction. Despite this challenge, she showed remarkable resilience, quickly finding her feet and taking ownership of her development. Her personal growth has been tremendous, and she has flourished into a highly capable, confident, and dependable team member.
Katie’s achievements are already being recognised outside of Transport for Wales, having been named a finalist at the Women in Rail Awards. She is now leading key initiatives such as the design and delivery of tailored outreach activities for our valued school partnerships and the Talent Foundry programmes, helping to inspire and support future generations into careers in rail.
What truly sets Katie apart is her kind and caring nature. She always puts the individuals on our schemes at the heart of everything we do, ensuring their experience is the best it can be. Her passion, professionalism, and drive make her an invaluable part of the team and a truly deserving candidate for this award.
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Keelie Hall
Company Name
LNER
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I’d like to nominate Keelie Hall for the Apprentice of the Year, recognising her exceptional passion, drive, and commitment to safety and performance in the rail industry. Following in her Dad’s footsteps a driver on the East Coast Main Line for 40 years, Keelie joined LNER with a personal determination to make a meaningful difference. Growing up, she saw both the good days and the more difficult moments that came with his role, particularly around fatalities on the railway. These experiences inspired her to get involved, contribute meaningfully to railway operations, and play an active role in improving how the industry supports colleagues, families, and communities during such events.
As an apprentice at LNER, Keelie hasn’t just met expectations she’s exceeded them. She’s helped shape how safety and performance are understood across the organisation, and taken on responsibility well beyond her role level. One of her standout achievements was tackling a long-standing industry challenge: the lack of a clear, shared definition of performance. Keelie took this head-on, gathering feedback from frontline colleagues, managers, and senior leaders, including our executive team, to co-create a definition that now guides how we explain and embed performance at LNER:
"Performance is how we deliver on our promise: to get customers to their destination safely, reliably, and on time. Strong performance builds trust, pride, and loyalty-for our customers, our people, and the railway itself.
When we perform well, we attract passengers, support communities, and strengthen the railway’s future. It shows we take ownership, deliver on our word, and learn from every challenge. Good performance isn’t just about meeting targets, it’s about making every train, every journey, and every day better.
In short: performance is how we show up, build trust, and move the railway forward."
She didn’t stop at words, Keelie took the next step and has developed training materials on performance, which are in the process of being embedded into the onboarding process for new recruits across LNER. Her work is helping colleagues understand their role in delivering a safe and punctual railway-and most importantly, why it matters.
She’s also forged strong working relationships across LNER and with Network Rail, particularly in the Route Crime space - an area that links directly to reducing risk and impact around trespass and fatalities. Her values were also brought to life through community engagement, including her involvement in Leeds Station Safety Week. Keelie supported the delivery of simulator sessions as part of a wider event that reached almost 1,000 children with important messages about railway safety - an incredible achievement that shows her commitment to supporting the wider community and preventing harm before it happens.
Alongside all of this, she’s been a powerful advocate for apprentices, speaking up for their contributions and encouraging others to step forward. Keelie’s confidence, curiosity, and emotional intelligence set her apart - not just as a future leader, but as someone already making a meaningful impact.
Keelie's dedication, initiative, and the maturity she’s demonstrated throughout her apprenticeship, make her an outstanding contender.
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Matthew O'shea
Company Name
South Western Railway
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I have nominated Matt because since he started in his role as a Leadership Talent Apprentice in SWR and joining the Guards function in Bournemouth Matt has absolutely excelled in the role. As an 18 year old apprentice, coming into the railway alone is a daunting experience, particularly when dealing with train crew, many of whom have been established in their positions for a long time, some can be difficult characters and have a lot of experience and do tend to struggle being managed by younger less experienced managers. Matt came in to learn the Guards Manager role with a potential to train as one in the future. However, he took the opportunity as an apprentice to not only shadow the role & the managers that were already stablished in the position but he decided that he was going to completely train as a fully qualified guards manager. This meant he needed to not only train as a guard, but complete every single management training course, including disciplinary and grievances, accident and Investigations and attendance management processes. Dealing with a very unionised environment Matt was not at all phased by any of this and not only completed all of the training that an established guards manager would do but also jumped at the chance of dealing with some very difficult and challenging situations. He supports the guards manager crew in Bournemouth and bar the job title and salary is now acting as a GM. One of his first operational incidents was to support and deal with a fatality on the Bournemouth mainline and not only did Matt act in an exemplary manner but he supported the other members of traincrew on board and completed chain of care on those involved. Matt has taken up on call duties, completes operational investigations, has had some very challenging conversations with difficult colleagues and jumps at the chance to be very hands on. He also completed his A1 assessor course and is now assessing guards within the Bournemouth depot, a task that can take up to 12 months for some assessors. As his depot manager I found Matt to be a breath of fresh air, rising to any challenge and jumping in feet first to every task. Generally apprentices shadow & learn the role but not Matt. He is now completely trained as a guards manager and although he is still in his apprentice period, earning just an apprentice salary, which is half of a guards managers, this doesn't phase him and he always gives 100% and does everything to the best of his ability. Matt is exceptional. He does it all with an extremely positive attitude, nothing phases him. His apprentice work and submissions have always been highly commended and he is a role model to all future apprentices. I have no doubt as soon as Matts apprenticeship is complete he will excel in a Guards manager role, at the ripe old age of 19... a task that takes some many years!
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Mia Sandham
Company Name
AtkinsRéalis
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Mia Sandham is an exemplary apprentice whose contributions to the rail industry have made a significant impact. Since joining AtkinsRéalis as a Signalling Degree Apprentice in September 2023, Mia has consistently demonstrated exceptional talent, dedication, and a genuine commitment to learning and professional growth.
Mia’s academic achievements are outstanding. She has attained Distinctions in all modules of her Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Solihull College and University Centre. Her studies have equipped her with advanced technical knowledge, which she has seamlessly translated into practical skills on the job.
Mia has played a pivotal role in developing digital tools for railway trackside asset assessments. She not only contributed to the design and improvement of the Evifile digital tool but also authored the user guide, ensuring her colleagues could adopt the technology effectively. Her hands-on involvement in site surveys for re-signalling projects, particularly in the Dover area, has deepened her understanding of asset condition assessment and further enhanced her technical and analytical abilities.
Mia’s contributions extend well beyond technical excellence. She is recognised for her proactive approach, volunteering for challenging tasks and consistently seeking opportunities to expand her knowledge. Her diligence, professionalism, and willingness to question and learn from more experienced team members have earned her widespread respect. Feedback from colleagues highlights her high standards, attention to detail, and ability to deliver quality work under tight deadlines. Notably, she was commended for her role in the successful completion of feasibility studies for level crossings and for efficiently updating complex design.
Mia’s behaviours and soft skills are frequently recognised by her peers and managers. She has received multiple #WOW awards at AtkinsRéalis, including for stepping in at short notice to take on the Assistant Engineering Manager role on a major project, where her initiative, attention to detail, and reliability were instrumental in meeting critical deadlines. Mia is known for her collaborative spirit, supporting new apprentices as a buddy, and fostering a positive, inclusive environment. She is also the Networking and Social Apprenticeship Lead within the Early Careers team and serves as Class Student Representative at Solihull College, advocating for her peers and helping to build a supportive learning community.
Externally, Mia has represented AtkinsRéalis at careers fairs, acting as a STEM ambassador and inspiring future apprentices. Her communication skills and professionalism have been praised by both internal and external stakeholders, particularly for her ability to engage with a diverse audience and provide accurate, helpful information.
Looking ahead, Mia is focused on further technical training, pursuing professional qualifications, and aspires to take on people management responsibilities in the future. Her ambition, combined with her proven track record, marks her as a future leader in the rail industry.
In summary, Mia Sandham exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding apprentice: technical excellence, initiative, leadership, and a passion for learning. Her remarkable impact so early in her career, combined with her recognised behaviours and soft skills, makes her a truly deserving candidate for the Apprentice of the Year award.
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Morgan Sidebottom
Company Name
TRU West Alliance
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Since joining the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) in Autumn 2023 as a Year 1 Apprentice, Morgan has made an immediate and lasting impression. From his very first day on site, colleagues have recognized his drive to learn, his proactive attitude, and his ability to build trust and respect through excellent communication.
Morgan consistently demonstrates a rare balance of academic commitment and practical excellence. Alongside diligently completing his college coursework and building an impressive Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviors (KSB) portfolio, he actively seeks opportunities to broaden his knowledge of civil engineering. He is never afraid to ask questions, suggest improvements, or put forward solutions, qualities that show both initiative and maturity.
His technical ability is equally impressive. Morgan has developed the skills to accurately transfer data from Approved for Construction (AFC) packs to the site, contributing directly to work package plans and task briefings. Such is the confidence in his accuracy and diligence that he has been entrusted with tracking all earthworks movements within his section; a responsibility he has carried out flawlessly. His work is always of the highest standard, delivered on time and without error.
Morgan is also deeply engaged in shaping the wider future of the industry. As an active member of Future BAM, he has organised visits to TRU sites to showcase best practice and support the development of other apprentices and students. He takes pride in mentoring peers, sharing knowledge, and ensuring others benefit from his experience.
His leadership qualities extend naturally into safety and sustainability. Morgan has undertaken the role of Site Safety Engineer, carrying out inspections, asking perceptive questions, and even chairing the site safety committee. His ability to identify risks, raise close calls, and propose improvements has already made a real impact on safe working practices. He has also delivered site-specific inductions to new starters with professionalism and confidence, ensuring everyone is fully briefed and engaged.
Morgan has shown strong commitment to the environment. As Site Environmental Engineer, he has led regular tours to identify improvements, while contributing to Inspection Test Plans to ensure work is delivered ‘right first time.’
Morgan’s journey so far is a model of what an apprentice should aspire to be: hardworking, innovative, collaborative, and deeply committed to safety and sustainability. In every respect, he is not just a promising apprentice but a future leader of the rail industry, and a highly deserving nominee for the Rail Staff Apprentice of the Year Award
I’ve been impressed by Morgan’s appetite to learn. When given a task to complete, he is diligent in his work, asks searching questions to understand what & why it’s important, and looks for ways to improve. He brings an enthusiasm to his role; he is reliable & respected by his colleagues, who know he can be relied upon when asked to complete an activity. Alongside his contribution on-site, he also takes his studies seriously and I have been impressed by the quality & content of his coursework
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Nathan Pattinson
Company Name
AECOM
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It is with great pride that I nominate Nathan Pattinson for the Rail Staff Awards 2025, Apprentice of the Year. Nathan has demonstrated outstanding technical ability, professionalism, and dedication since joining AECOM as an apprentice in 2019. Over the past six years, he has grown into a well-rounded engineer with expertise spanning OLE, SCADA, ETE, points heating, lighting, and LV systems. Alongside completing his Level 3 apprenticeship, he is now pursuing a degree in Electro-mechanical Engineering, showcasing his commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. His registration as an EngTech and active membership in both the IET and PWI further reflect his dedication to the rail industry and to advancing his professional standing.
Nathan’s project portfolio highlights the breadth of his skills and his ability to deliver across diverse and technically demanding schemes. He has contributed to numerous third-rail electrification projects for the Southern Region, including option selection, outline design, and detailed design at GRIP 1–5 stages. His work on depots such as Farnham, Fratton, and Basingstoke has required innovative solutions across electrification, LV power, and lighting, often involving close coordination with manufacturers and contractors to implement safe, practical, and staged solutions. His involvement in the Thameslink Resilience programme and Cardiff West points heating renewals further demonstrates his adaptability, technical depth, and ability to deliver solutions that improve system resilience, safety, and performance. Nathan has also applied his previous learning to the development of static modelling of catenary systems, demonstrating a willingness to push beyond his core discipline and contribute to wider innovation in the business.
What truly sets Nathan apart is not only his technical capability but also his resilience, leadership, and collaborative spirit. He has shown maturity well beyond his years by taking responsibility for complex packages, carrying out detailed site surveys, and producing designs that make a tangible difference to rail operations. Beyond his project work, Nathan has played an active role in shaping AECOM’s culture and supporting his colleagues. As a former Chairman of AECOM’s UK&I Shadow Board, he has been instrumental in championing employee engagement and supporting new recruits as they integrate into the business. His involvement in numerous company activities outside of work hours, including community support days, combined with his approachable nature, has made him a popular and respected figure across the organisation, valued by employees of all ages and levels.
Nathan’s achievements as an apprentice demonstrate that he is not only a capable engineer but also an emerging leader in rail engineering—adaptable, forward-thinking, and committed to delivering safe, innovative, and sustainable infrastructure. He is a truly deserving candidate for Apprentice of the Year
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Rohan Mannion
Company Name
Hitachi Rail
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Leading a cross-industry team and presenting findings to the Rail Director General of the DfT is a daunting task for any rail professional. Yet, Rohan Mannion, an Engineering Apprentice at Hitachi Rail, not only embraced this challenge but delivered exceptional results, embodying the remarkable early-career impact this award celebrates.
With outstanding A-levels (A*, A, A), Rohan bypassed university to immerse himself in the rail sector, attracted by Hitachi Rail's ethos and growth opportunities. His contributions showcase exceptional talent, dedication, and a commitment to learning that have already transformed passenger experiences, team efficiencies, and industry collaborations.
Central to Rohan's impact is his leadership in an Early Careers Assignment for the DfT where he was tasked with developing an early business case on Driver Advisory Systems (DAS).
Working with cross-industry experts from Network Rail, First Group and South West Railways, Rohan professionally engaged stakeholders to build a robust, evidence-based case. His meticulous research produced a concise, high-impact report highlighting DAS's role in enhancing operational performance on the railways, reducing costs, and delivering environmental benefits. Rohan presented this to the DAS board and later delivered a compelling pitch to DfT Director General Alex Hynes and Director Rosemary Hopkins, sparking forward-thinking discussions on efficiency and environmental gains. This work brought clarity to a complex area, demonstrating his ability to collaborate at senior levels and drive sector-wide advancements early in his apprenticeship.
Testimonials underscore this achievement: Alex Hynes (Director General,DfT) commended, “Well done Rohan for bringing much needed clarity to a complex area, working collaboratively with TOCs, Network Rail, and the supply chain to clarify the significant contribution that Driver-Advisory-Systems can play in improving performance and reducing industry costs. Fantastic to see the calibre of apprentices joining the industry."
Mark.Wardell (FirstGroup) noted, “Rohan’s raw enthusiasm is contagious, and his understanding of what is required impressive; it’s refreshing to know the future of our industry is in safe hands.”
Darren Jowett (NetworkRail) added, “His meticulous research and production of a concise, high-impact report on the benefits of Driver Advisory Systems have made a significant contribution to the sector. Rohan’s ability to engage and collaborate with senior industry-stakeholders were clearly demonstrated during his presentation to the rail leadership team at the Department for Transport, where his work helped shape forward-thinking discussions on operational efficiency and sustainability.”
Beyond this, Rohan's talent shines in innovative projects, such as leading a proof-of-concept to improve passenger information—managing scrum, stakeholders, presentations, and development—and winning a UK hackathon with a concept to enhance train predictions and customer experience. He represented the UK at the global HaCUthon in Stuttgart, gaining international insights.
Rohan's dedication extends to volunteering: self-funding a trip to Ghana to lead maths classes for children aged 10-13 and assist in English and science, driven by a passion to give back and share knowledge. He also inspires at apprentice fairs, recruiting top talent into rail.
Through these impacts, Rohan exemplifies outstanding apprenticeship: transforming challenges into industry progress with talent, dedication, and relentless learning—making him the ideal Apprentice of the Year.
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Scott Middlemiss (TRU Central Apprentice) / Project Delivery Engineering Management)
Company Name
Network Rail
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Since joining as an apprentice, Scott has demonstrated exceptional initiative and curiosity across all engineering disciplines. He has actively sought to understand not only the core principles of each discipline but also how they interface with one another — including non-engineering functions — showcasing a systems-level mindset from the outset. Scott then applied his learning straight away to develop a route diagram drawing to articulate the scope of the W2BC project, this route drawing has been utilised in stakeholder meetings and for planning of works.
During his first year, Scott chose to specialise in the Track pathway, where he quickly grasped complex concepts such as optimising journey time & train performance and how these can affect the track system. He went beyond foundational understanding by developing his own calculation models to assess acceleration and braking, which he used to calculate journey times for different engineering options. His work proved invaluable during the redesign of the Gledholt track layout, where Scott’s work was central to the option selection. His work directly contributed to tangible benefits for passengers through reduced travel times and improved service reliability.
Having been asked to review a tool for forecasting major track works on enhancement schemes, Scott left no stone unturned and produced a thorough and balanced piece of work. Rather than applying the traditional categorisation for track work types, Scott chose to simplify the assessment down into its most basic components: rail, sleepers and ballast. This went down very well with senior engineers due to its clear structure and simplicity. It also led to some lessons-learned for the author of the forecasting tool, making a direct contribution to more efficient track work, for TRU and future schemes. Being that track works form a major component of railway industry costs – this should not be overlooked.
Scott’s ability to balance workplace responsibilities with academic commitments is equally commendable. He has consistently met all university objectives and submitted assignments on time, demonstrating strong time management and dedication to his development. Scott also proactively assists fellow university students acting as a representative of for them in dialogue with university staff.
Within the Central team, Scott has integrated seamlessly, maintaining a calm, professional demeanour and a collaborative spirit. He is now giving back by supporting the next cohort of apprentices as a buddy, sharing his experience and helping others navigate their early careers.
Scott’s regular participation in a heritage railway charity (The Sir Nigel Gresley Locomotive Trust) in his spare time speaks volumes of an excellent motivational fit both now and during his future rail career. It also reflects a hardworking, considerate and humble individual who would be a credit to any apprenticeship scheme.
Scott’s technical contributions, proactive attitude, and commitment to continuous learning make him a standout apprentice and a deserving nominee for this award.
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Thomas Boyle
Company Name
Northern Trains Ltd
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As Thomas Boyle’s Engineering Apprenticeship Line Manager, I would like to nominate him for the prestigious title of Apprentice of the Year for his exceptional professionalism during his time on his Level 3 Rail Engineering Technician (Traction and Rolling Stock) Apprenticeship.
Thomas decided to pursue a career in rail engineering due to his passion for the railway sector and electrical engineering and came straight from school into his apprenticeship at Northern Trains Ltd.
Throughout his three-year apprenticeship, Thomas's dedication has been evident in the high-quality standard of work that he consistently submits, receiving nothing but positive feedback. He faces new tasks with an initiative-taking approach and strives to develop himself every day.
Not only is Thomas committed to his work he is keen to help others. He regularly works alongside new apprentices and new starters when completing tasks to offer advice and guidance wherever possible.
Thomas has volunteered at new apprentice interview assessment days, welcome days and at job and career events. He is keen to engage people and promote engineering in the railway industry as an attractive career opportunity for people from all backgrounds and experience levels.
When Thomas is not at work, he demonstrates the engineering knowledge he’s gained to build gaming PCs and develop video games. He can often be found in Scotland following his beloved Glasgow Rangers FC or showing discipline in his local gym and at Karate, in which he holds a black belt.
Thomas is a shining example to all what can be achieved with hard work and dedication and I have total confidence he has a fantastic career ahead of him.
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Toby Sinclair
Company Name
Alstom
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Toby Sinclair (Apprentice PM)
Started September 23 with Alstom, Control Systems.
Toby has immediately become a valued member of the Alstom Control systems team, he has brought high energy & enthusiasm to every task he has taken on, his vales and determination to work hard have stood out from the outset.
He communicates very well with all Alstom employees and has shown a professionalism way beyond his years while dealing with clients, his written communication is excellent, and he values and utilises advice given by others with more experience. He has advanced to being client facing quicker than anticipated and can be trusted to represent the company on his own, he understands the importance of the client relationship when delivering.
Toby has planned and delivered logistically complicated commissioning’s at Ashford & Wemyss Bay, his meticulous eye for planning stemming from a business background outside his apprenticeship, he quickly gained the trust of far more experienced staff who can depend on his ability to plan and communicate clearly.
His background has also helped him quickly understand and appreciate commercial pressures and as a result he is successfully delivering his 2nd Control Systems project as the main PM (Yoker) and is direct representative to the client.
As his Lead PM, I have been impressed with his abilities from the beginning, from working with installation to managing programmes, he has embraced all aspects of delivery, he is highly talented and most of all very practical and I would very much recommend Toby for the award as Apprentice of the year.
Craig Keogh
Lead PM (Alstom Control Systems)
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15
CHARITY AWARD
This award celebrates individuals or teams in the rail industry who have made a significant contribution to charitable causes. Recognising those who have gone beyond their professional roles, it honours efforts in fundraising, volunteering, and community support. The winner exemplifies how the rail industry can be a force for positive change.
You can see all the past winners here.
Aggie Shiham
Company Name
South Western Railway
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Aggie is an outstanding member of staff stationed at Datchet Ticket office SWR. I am nominating her for the charity award as I have seen first hand her involvement and contributions she puts in towards Macmillan cancer support year after year.
She has a fantastic repore with all her customers, some who come in just to donate money and have some delicious cake, all of which is home baked by herself.
She puts on a fantastic spread year after year, and goes above and beyond for her station, the customers, and Macmillan!
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Aidan Courts
Company Name
AtkinsRéalis
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Few individuals embody the spirit of selflessness, resilience, and dedication to charitable causes as profoundly as Aidan has over the past year.
Following the passing of his beloved Grandad Fred in 2024, Aidan was inspired to honour his memory in a truly extraordinary way. Motivated by their shared experience of a childhood charity walk, Aidan set out to raise funds and awareness for two causes close to his heart: the Motor Neurone Disease Association and the Birmingham City Foundation.
What began as a tribute evolved into one of the most ambitious personal charity challenges imaginable — a solo walk across the entire length of Great Britain.
After months of meticulous planning and securing a three-month unpaid leave from work, Aidan embarked on his journey in May, setting off from Land’s End in Cornwall. Carrying all his essentials in a rucksack, he walked northeast along the coast, driven by the memory of his Grandad and the desire to make a meaningful impact.
Over the next 61 days, Aidan faced and overcame extraordinary challenges:
Extreme weather — from punishing storms to intense heatwaves
Physical hardship — including injury, illness, and walking 45 miles in two days without food
Unexpected setbacks — like a mouse chewing through his tent in the dead of night
Sheer endurance — climbing over 140,000 feet (five times the height of Mt. Everest!) and conquering Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak
On what would have been Fred’s 94th birthday, Aidan reached his final destination — John o’ Groats, in the far north of Scotland.
His journey covered:
1,211 miles walked
2.6 million steps taken
Over £10,000 raised for charity
Aidan’s achievement is not just a feat of physical and mental endurance — it is a deeply personal and inspiring story of love, legacy, and the power of giving back. His unwavering commitment to honouring his Grandad and supporting vital causes makes him a truly deserving candidate for the Charity Award.
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Angela McEwan
Company Name
ScotRail
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
While looking up the word charity, I came across words such as benevolent, goodwill, love of humanity and Angela. Angela McEwan is one of these people who sees a need to help but doesn't wait alone to see who's going to do something about it. She is all about, right? This is what's up. And this is how we will fix it. Angela saw that there was a vital piece of equipment missing from local schools, and with no funding available to purchase Defibrillators. Angela knows from first-hand experience. Having a defibrillator can help save a life. Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone at any time. I was really shocked to hear that none of the equipment was available in local schools. Every year, with the help of her family, friends and colleagues, Angela arranges a pre-Christmas fundraising event to raise much-needed funds for community causes within the Inverclyde area. So far, she has raised enough money to ensure that 5 schools now have the lifesaving equipment, with the hope of three more this year. The defibrillators are for the use of the whole community, as they can be used without any specialist training, which is vital to treating Cardiac arrest. Angela doesn't see that she's done anything special. But Angela has a big heart and Sharp eyes, saw what was needed and by doing so, makes the world a brighter and Safer place. Angela makes a difference.
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Dave Bateson
Company Name
Network Rail
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
With 33 years of service in the industry, Dave’s unwavering dedication—both professionally and personally—has created lasting impact. Dave, as he prefers to be known, was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma in 2019 after discovering a lesion on his scalp, Dave faced a life-altering journey as the cancer spread to his lungs, liver, and spine. Treated with pioneering immunotherapy at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Dave not only survived—he thrived, emerging with a renewed purpose: to raise awareness, support others, and give back to the communities and colleagues who stood by him.
Throughout his treatment, Dave remained committed to his role in Network Rail becoming a catalyst for cultural and behavioural change, particularly among colleagues working outdoors, for whom his message on sun safety and melanoma awareness is both relevant and urgent. This has been shown in the following ways:
• Improving Connections and Cohesion: Dave has delivered sun safety talks to hundreds of frontline maintenance and track workers across Wales and other regions, strengthening wellbeing culture and peer support. His powerful storytelling has connected teams across operational boundaries, reinforcing the railway’s role in safeguarding its people.
• Health, Safety and Wellbeing: Dave has written and published articles on internal platforms such as Viva Engage, achieving over 20,000 views. His content has helped drive awareness of sun exposure risks in safety-critical environments. He has presented at events including Talk of the Tracks and supported Network Rail’s Cancer Support Group, using his own story to empower and educate.
• Diversity and Inclusion, Accessibility: Dave’s narrative challenges stereotypes and shows how people living with serious illness can continue to thrive in the workplace. He demonstrates the importance of compassionate leadership, inclusive working practices, and flexible support structures for long-term health conditions.
• Catalyst for Regeneration and Community Development: Dave has raised over £50,000 for the Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust, delivering talks on behalf of the hospital and inspiring others to fundraise. His community events—including football fundraisers with Luton Town FC and Ampthill Town FC, auctions, and sponsored runs—have built local pride and cohesion, with plans to turn the annual “Hill vs Cancer” 5K into a flagship event attracting thousands of participants.
• Staff and Stakeholder Engagement: Dave works closely with his local community, hospital advisory groups, and the Network Rail cancer support network. His story has reached national audiences through ITV News, The Sun newspaper, and YouTube, demonstrating public trust and respect for the railway’s people. He has even been shortlisted for the Pride of Britain Award.
Dave’s approach is highly replicable. He has created toolkits and shared resources that can be adapted across other infrastructure environments. His work has already inspired colleagues—such as those who ran the Leeds Half Marathon in tribute to his journey—to embed well-being and charitable action within their own roles.
Dave has shown remarkable resilience, humility, and purpose. He has become a voice for cancer survivors, a campaigner for sun safety, a community organiser, and a deeply respected role model within and beyond the railway family.
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Gemma Nicholson
Company Name
Mitie
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Gemma, Front of House Manager for Eastern region, is someone who is always keen to take on responsibilities outside of her job role. Putting herself forward to be Social Value Champion is one such example, a role which helps drive local colleague engagement. Gemma has been very proactive within the role, developing a relationship with the Leeds FareShare operation, attending school careers events, arranging Macmillan Coffee morning and driving corportate volunteering.
Gemma's most notable success was taking it upon herself to develop a relationship with Kidsout, a charity that support adults and children fleeing domestic violence. Many children forced to leave their homes and living in a refuge over the festive period, face a Christmas in a strange place, scared and with no gifts. Gemma worked tirelessly to ensure children had a reason to smile last Christmas, by co-ordinating and promoting the Kidsout 'Giving Tree campaign'. Colleagues were asked to sign up to Gift tags, each with a young persons name and gift on. Thanks to Gemma efforts what was initially meant to be one office taking part, ended up being 7 corporate sites.
Gemma worked tireless coordinating the effort, and collecting and dropping off donations, often doing so late in to the evening in her own time. With Christmas a few months away Gemma has already signed up and began planning, to ensure we surpass last years efforts.
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Jacqueline Craig / George Borthwick Kat Love / Georgia Vickery
Company Name
LNER
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Every year we choose a charity to support - we have a selection process where is must be local, small and screaming out for funds annually we raise approx. 2.5K for chosen charities - these guys go out of their way - selling raffle tickets, collecting donations for prizes culminating at Christmas with a breakfast café set up in the lounge where there is a cake stall along with a full breakfast menu - open to all of the TOCs and NW, BTP staff the chosen charities come along to assist in drawing our raffle and receive their cheque. these 4 work tirelessly to promote this event, and also to provide assistance to the charities last year this involved 2 of the team becoming elves for the day at the charities Christmas fete, we have arranged for a little boy who could not travel on the polar express as his wheelchair could not fit, so he was met by Santa and a Reindeer and transported to his carriage with his own personal fireplace complete with stocking hung up for him whilst he travelled with his mum to Newcastle to enjoy a day out - who would have thought you could travel at 125 miles an hour with a full size fireplace but they made it happen. each of the charities have a special place in our hearts and quite often with assistance from our wider team find out about funding available through the LNER community fund, without these guys this would not have been possible
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Jake Wallis
Company Name
GTR
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Over the last year, Jake Wallis, has dedicated so much of his own time to raising money for multiple charities and good causes.
At the beginning of the year, he organised a friendly football match between onboard staff and train drivers to raise awareness for two incredible charities: St Wilfrid’s Hospice in Eastbourne—on behalf of his grandad, who recently passed, and his aunty, who received amazing care from them—and Mind UK, a mental health charity that has supported him and many others over the years.
While planning the event, he realised he wanted to turn it into something bigger. He hoped to make it an annual occasion, so he put even more energy into it. This led to him securing sponsorship for a personalised charity football kit under the name Bear’s Buds—a symbol that represents friendship and the idea that no one is ever alone; there’s always someone there for support.
To raise additional funds, he organised a raffle and was able to secure a top-quality pitch and a beautiful clubhouse to host the event and the prize draw. He spent months reaching out to businesses across Sussex, writing countless emails and following up with responses. Through these efforts, He managed to collect over 60 raffle prizes, which helped raise more than £3,500, split evenly between the two charities.
Jake even hired a face painter at his own expense to keep the kids entertained and give the event a real family-friendly feel.
At the same time, he was also supporting a close friend who was organising his own charity day for Alzheimer’s awareness in honour of his grandad. Jake offered advice, helped him plan, and took part in the event itself, which successfully raised just over £1,500.
A few weeks later, Jake saw someone on Facebook asking for advice about organising a charity event, so he reached out to offer guidance based on his experience. She was incredibly grateful, and it felt good to help someone else make a difference.
Jake brings this level of effort and determination to everything he does, and he is passionate about continuing the hard work and raising awareness of these charities. He has already started organising the event for 2026. It will be a rematch of this year’s game—but on a much larger scale. He is planning to add on a family fun day to help raise as much money as possible.
Jake continues to spend most of his spare time contacting companies and small businesses to support both the charity event and their own local ventures. He has already lined up a few stalls for the event.
Amazingly, He has managed to secure a venue—including the stadium pitch, surrounding grass area, and exclusive use of the clubhouse—completely free of charge, allowing him to maximise donations. Everything has been done on a budget of £0, which has certainly made it challenging at times—but also incredibly rewarding.
Having Jake on our team makes us all very proud.
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Jo-ann Hampton
Company Name
Amey Rail
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Jo-ann Hampton is Amey’s Business Coordinator where she has become the driving force behind Amey’s charitable work on the Transpennine Route Upgrade, leading with enthusiasm, determination and integrity. Over the past year, Jo-ann has transformed the project’s fundraising efforts with real purpose, resulting in exceptional outcomes. Under her dedicated leadership, the team has raised over £30,000 for a variety of causes — an extraordinary sum that reflects both Jo-ann’s strategic vision and her talent for galvanising others. She organised the National Three Peaks Challenge in support of Marie Curie, pushing physical and mental limits to raise vital funds for end-of-life care. Jo-ann has even taken fundraising to exhilarating heights — quite literally — by organising charity skydives, inspiring others to step out of their comfort zones for a good cause.
Recognising the power of collective action, Jo-ann has established a dedicated network of Charity Champions within each of Amey’s delivery teams. Now, charitable activity is consistent, visible and inclusive across the project — enabling ideas, events and participation to flourish everywhere.
Exemplary efforts in fundraising and community service
Jo-ann’s creativity in generating inspiring fundraising ideas is matched by her passion and purpose-driven ambition to bring them to life. From the irresistible aroma of charity cake sales (which were the talk of our offices and depots!) to sponsored walks that unite and uplift our staff, family, friends and communities. These activities sit alongside larger events such as on-site challenges, themed community markets, the Three Peaks Challenge, and organised skydives — giving everyone, regardless of role or means, a way to contribute.
Importantly, Jo-ann’s encouragement extends beyond fundraising. She champions opportunities for the team to give back through hands-on social value days — from clearing canal paths to improve local environments, volunteering at food banks to support those facing hardship, and preparing rucksacks filled with essentials for the homeless. These initiatives have forged lasting connections within the communities served and have strengthened the team’s sense of purpose to continue making impactful change, following Jo-ann’s inspirational footsteps in leading with kindness, compassion and determination in every stride.
Force for positive change
Through these charitable causes, Jo-ann has cultivated strong, lasting links with charities, including Cancer Research UK and local foodbanks. These relationships reach far beyond one-off donations; she nurtures ongoing support, awareness and collaboration, ensuring a sustained and meaningful impact along the Transpennine corridor.
Jo-ann’s influence is felt in the culture she has nurtured: one where charitable action is part of the everyday rhythm, not an occasional extra. She celebrates every volunteer, every donation and every small victory, creating pride and momentum that motivates people to get involved time and again.
Jo-ann has not only delivered remarkable fundraising totals but has also embedded a legacy of kindness and connection between the railway and local communities. She exemplifies the spirit of the Charity Award — community engagement grounded in empathy, charitable support fuelled by purpose, and fundraising achievements that inspire others to make a difference. Jo-ann is a true role-model for all.
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Mark Hardy-Johnson
Company Name
Transport For Wales
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
I would like to nominate Mark for the Charity Award
Mark since joining the TFW Training Team at Chester has been instrumental is starting a dress down day on payday Friday where all money donated by current and new starters is donated to charities recommended by the staff themselves. Since starting in March 23 this has been running ever since, the total so far as of 5th September 25 is £2,077.48, the charity's Mark has forwarded money to each month has been nominated by staff who themselves have partaken in bike rides, half marathon, ironman events, or donate there own time to, most of these are the smaller local charities where any money donated makes a difference, the list includes scout groups, railway children, superkids, childflight, 34 in total.
The highlight and the reason for the nomination is when Mark organised a collection of easter eggs that were to be donated to children's wards close to TFW depots a total of 870 easter eggs were donated and handed over by Mark on a marathon road trip to 9 hospital children departments in England and Wales.
Mark also organised through the RNLI a Launch a Memory donation organised with the family of a colleague who sadly passed away.
There have been many many letters of thanks from the charity's and hospitals received by Mark that proudly sit on our notice board that Mark acknowledges are also for the staff who donated.
I feel through the work he puts in organising, collating, delivering, producing materials, he is an unsung hero who has done a great thing that has benefited the many communities and individuals who have received these donations.
David Nixon
Driver and Operations Trainer TFW
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Merseyrail & Centre 56 Running Team
Company Name
Merseyrail
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Centre 56 Running Team
Centre 56 became one of our chosen charities in January 2024 through our employee-led charity of the year programme. For over 50 years, Centre 56 has provided a safe haven for families in Kirkdale, offering specialist nursery care for children aged 2-12 who have experienced domestic abuse or crisis situations. At any time, the nursery supports up to 60 children and their wider families. Through the Rainbow Room, families can access food, essentials, and clothing free of charge whenever needed. They also provide energy and food vouchers to ensure children grow up in warm homes with full fridges. This partnership was established to raise awareness of Centre 56, which was once a women’s refuge and remained relatively unknown. From the outset, Merseyrail tried to be more than a charity partner and become an invaluable force in driving the charities mission forward. The best example of this is our collaborative campaign, ‘Running the Railways.’
In 2024, Centre 56 hosted its first rail-
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Michelle Raimondi
Company Name
Mitie (Network Rail Contract)
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Michelle is Regional Workplace Manager for Network Rail's Southern region. Michelle put herself forward to become Social Value Champion shortly afer joining the contract, recognising there was an opportunity to deliver more Social Value impact. The Champion role, is in addition to a colleagues main role and supports the work of the Social Value Manger and contractual commitments.
One of our key Social Value metrics is employee volunteering. Our Giving Back programme encourages colleagues to take time out of the business, to make a positive local contribution. The new contract mobilised in October 23, from the Oct - to March 24 Southern registered 101 volunteering hours. Michelle then stepped in to the Champion role in April 24 and has been hugely influential in increasing the community impact delivered but also the local colleague culture. In FY24 Southern was the highest performer, delivering an impressive 1000 volunteering hours. Southern have continued in the same vein and have delivered 462 hours so far this year, which again sees them ahead of the other 5 regions. Whilst hours are one of our quantifiable Social Value metrics, our focus is on genuine impact. Something Michelle hasn't deviated from, by supporting existing partnerships and creating and developing southern own relationships. Crawley open house, a charity which supports homelessness, is a successful partnership that Michelle developed. The region provides ongoing support, from donations, to regularly working in the soup kitchen. Michelle efforts were recognised by being included on their promotional roller banner.
"We love people like Michelle and Eddie from Mitie! ? They have been faithful supporters of Open House for a long time, and we were more than delighted to see their friendly faces again in our hostel kitchen recently. Thank you for helping us to sort out lunch every 6 weeks or so for everyone here. We are very grateful!" Crawley Open House Social Media post.
Michelle truly leads by example, exemplified by her hands on and can do attitude, which see's her driving local engagement and upskilling and taking taking on further responsibility. Michelle is the lead Mental Health First Aider in Southern and is also one if 5 colleagues on the contract to complete the inclusion allied programme, championing ED&I. Michelle has supported a student on a school mentoring programme, mentored a Mencap learner with a learning disability on a 5 week placement and is now taking on learner on a 6 month placement.
Michelle understand Social Value is a key part of our contract and approaches it, as she does with all areas of her work, with positivity and complete dedication. Thank you Michelle for always going the extra mile.
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Paul Meenan
Company Name
C2C
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Charity Award Nomination Statement for Paul Meenan
I am delighted to nominate Paul Meenan for this charity award in recognition of his outstanding dedication and initiative in supporting Gold Geese, a local children’s cancer charity.
Under Paul’s leadership, our team launched a program on our job site to collect and store all scrap and waste materials. Through careful management and collective effort, we were able to redeem these materials and, on two occasions, present cheques of £5,000 and £10,000 to Gold Geese. This initiative not only reduced waste but transformed it into meaningful support for children and families facing cancer.
What truly sets Paul apart is his personal commitment. He regularly gave up his weekends to help us sort material including strip cable, ensuring we achieved the highest possible yield. Thanks to his example and encouragement, this approach is now being adopted by all his contractors, multiplying the positive impact across multiple sites.
Paul’s vision, hands-on involvement, and passion for making a difference have inspired our team and delivered real, tangible benefits to the community. He has done this with other suppliers across the c2c route and I believe has raised over £2k at another location, his commitment to community apprentices shows he is a role model for social responsibility in our industry and a deserving candidate for this award.
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Sean Kennedy
Company Name
ScotRail
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Sean has gone above and beyond in his fundraising for Age Scotland and really has gone the extra mile (excuse the pun!). We are Scotland Railways chosen charity and Sean has very much taken us on as his charity which is brilliant! He keeps coming up with new ways to fundraise and really pushes himself to the limit.
We started with a lip sync event in our first year of partnership and then he held two karaoke's where he had friends, family and work colleagues all donating to Age Scotland. This year in amongst training to be a driver he has taken part in a half marathon and 3 weeks later was on a exercise bike doing a cycleathon in Queen Street Station. The cycleathon target was to cycle from Queen Street, Glasgow to Age Scotland offices in Edinburgh and back again. He did an incredible job and even when the legs started to tighten and he was feeling tired he pushed through and did it all with a smile on his face and at the same time was putting a smile on others by also doing a mini DJ set while cycling!
He hadn't even finished the challenge when he was chatting to me about what he thought his next challenge could be!
Not only is he raising money for Age Scotland but he is helping to raise awareness of our work. While cycling we had so many conversations with people asking for support and how to access our helpline.
We are seeing many people come forward as part of the partnership to fundraise but what makes Sean stand out is the volume of activities he is doing and the fact he is putting on his own events as well as signing up to our events. He is fun, enthusiastic and a pleasure to have linked to the charity.
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Tim Brawn
Company Name
Merseyrail Electrics
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Once again Tim has given his time and experience to Charity endeavours, being heavily involved in the Three Peaks Challenge, that raised a fantastic £200,000 for Railway Children . Tim gives himself to Charity work year upon year and it's finally time he's recognised for his selfless work.
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Tracey Cheung
Company Name
Amulet Security
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
I am honoured to nominate Tracey for the Charity Award. Throughout her time at Amulet Security, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and professionalism—both in her role and in her charitable endeavours.
One of Tracey’s most significant contributions has been her work with Missing People, a charity that supports the families and friends of those who go missing during the search and beyond, while also standing up for their rights to be treated fairly and equitably.
In 2025, Tracey took part in the Manchester Marathon, Newark Half Marathon, and Berlin Marathon, raising an impressive £630 to support this cause.
In 2024, Tracey dedicated her efforts to The Ben Kinsella Trust, a UK charity established in memory of 16-year-old Ben Kinsella to prevent knife crime through education, campaigning, and awareness initiatives. By running in the London Marathon, Manchester events, and the Half Marathon, she successfully raised £660 to support the trust’s vital mission of making knife carrying socially unacceptable and protecting young people.
In 2023, Tracey supported Oasis Community Learning, a multi-academy trust educating over 32,000 children and young people across 52 academies in England. With a vision of delivering exceptional education alongside community support, Oasis greatly benefited from Tracey’s fundraising efforts. Through her participation in the London Marathon, she raised an outstanding £2,105 to help further their impact.
Tracey also extends her generosity to other organizations, such as Railway Children, a UK-based charity working with vulnerable children at risk on the streets in the UK, India, and Tanzania. In May 2025, she participated in the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, raising £120, and later took part in a “Sleep Out” initiative, raising an additional £46 to support the charity’s mission.
Across these initiatives, Tracey has shown an extraordinary ability to inspire collaboration, raise awareness, and drive meaningful change. Her passion and determination have not only advanced charitable causes but also left a lasting, positive impact on the wider community.
Beyond her charitable work, Tracey embodies the values of integrity, teamwork, and excellence. She is a role model within Amulet Security—always willing to support colleagues, share knowledge, and create an environment where others can thrive.
For these reasons, I wholeheartedly believe Tracey is a truly deserving candidate for the Charity Award, and I am proud to put forth this nomination.
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15
CUSTOMER SERVICE TEAM OR PERSON AWARD
This award recognises individuals or teams who deliver exceptional customer service within the rail industry. It celebrates those who consistently go the extra mile to enhance passenger experience, demonstrating professionalism, empathy, and a proactive approach. Whether by assisting customers during challenging situations or ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey, nominees in this category play a vital role in fostering trust and enhancing the reputation of the rail industry.
Example job titles in this category:
Train Presentation Supervisor, Rail Coordinator, Customer Services Assistant, Oyster Helpline CSA, Training Coordinator, Administrator, Community Relations Manager, Roster Clerk, Planning Manager, Security Operations Manager, On Board Service Manager, Customer Host, Train Manager, Train Guard, Station Officer, Team Leader...
You can see all the past winners here.
Alison Mearns, Station Retailer, Hamilton Square
Company Name
Merseyrail
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Alison Mearns, Station Retailer, Hamilton Square
We are proud to nominate Ali for her exceptional commitment to customer service within the rail industry. Her dedication to passengers, professionalism under pressure, and unwavering positivity make her a standout member of our team. Whether assisting commuters during peak hours, helping tourists navigate unfamiliar routes, or supporting vulnerable passengers with care and compassion, Ali consistently delivers service that goes above and beyond expectations. Her deep knowledge of rail operations, timetables, and safety procedures ensures that every interaction is both helpful and reassuring. She embodies the values of our railway and her ability to turn a stressful travel moment into a smooth experience is nothing short of remarkable. She is not just a customer service representative—she is the face of our railway, and a true ambassador for excellence.
We have received numerous comments from our customers here are a few examples:
“Superb customer service and always with a smile.”
“Absolute Gem of the station! Always makes me smile when I pick up my ticket and snack! Amazing lady that really brings life to the station!!!” “Ali always brightens up my day when going into Hamilton Square station. Her customer service is second to none and we miss her when she's not in!” “Ali is an absolute legend. Her personality is difficult to put into words, but her relationship with customers and colleagues is simply second to none.” “Alison is the most cheerful and amazing member of staff you have she always happy every day and seeing her on my way to work each day brings a smile to my face and she is just wonderful she is a credit to Merseyrail.”
“I am 81 years old and was travelling from Hamilton Square to Liverpool Lime Street for onward transport to Blackpool North. I am not very stable on my feet so as my tickets were being printed by your employee, she took notice of my frailty and accompanied me to the ticket barrier with detailed instructions on where to board the train for nearest access to the lime street station lift. She was most helpful and considerate and went out of her way to help. I make this journey regularly and very often see her and she always smiles and says hello. I think her name is Ali.”
Some comments from her colleagues:
"It’s Alison she is just incredible.”
"Ali has always been very supportive to me and the customers since I started, she is very knowledgeable and willing to help anyone she is an asset to merseyrail."
“Ali is great to work in a team with, willing to help you without hesitation and really embody’ s the new core values. She deserves some recognition :)”
“Absolute legend, customer service incomparable, brightens everyone’s day.”
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Carolyn Russell
Company Name
LNER
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
In the 3 years that Carolyn has been with LNER she has made such a positive impact on colleagues and customers from LNER and other TOC passengers. Always smiling, always caring with a bubbly nature which is infectious to all who meet her. Carolyn has dealt with many incidents on train and on train teams, as well as station colleagues speak very highly of her and note that she works incredibly hard to putting the customer first.
Recently we had a vulnerable young person travelling frequently on a service. This young person confided in Carolyn, and building up rapport and trust, Carolyn helped take care of the young person’s basic needs with some food and drinks. Carolyn worked with local protection colleagues including BTP to ensure support plans were put in place or highlighted to the correct organisations. Emotionally this was a difficult situation and Carolyn dealt with it with care, empathy and compassion. This is something that happens regularly. Carolyn has a unique way of identifying what customers nee
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Customer Relations Team
Company Name
Grand Central
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Over the past 12 months, GC’s Customer Relations Team has been dedicated to enhancing the customer experience. Their core responsibility lies in providing restorative support to customers when their journey has not met expectations. In fulfilling this role, they actively advocate for change on behalf of our passengers and collaborate closely with teams across the business to ensure the customer voice is not only heard but acted upon.
Measurable Impact
• Resolution Rate: Following a challenging post-COVID period and a time under special measures with the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), the team has made significant strides in restoring customer confidence. Over the past year, they successfully resolved 98.64% of customer cases within 20 days—surpassing industry benchmarks and demonstrating our commitment to timely, effective service recovery.
• Customer Satisfaction: Our post-resolution satisfaction scores have improved by 22%, reflecting our commitment to empathetic and effective support.
• Volume Managed: Over the past year, the team managed close to 42,000 customer interactions, each approached with a commitment to compassionate service and trust restoration. This volume reflects not only the scale of their engagement but also the consistency with which they prioritise care, empathy, and resolution in every customer touchpoint.
Strategic Initiatives
• Feedback-Driven Change: They’ve supported the implementation of several key service improvements directly informed by customer feedback, including safety improvements for boarding of disabled passenger, enhancements to the cleaning regime of the trains through customer feedback, a new and improved platform for customers to easily claim delay compensation.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: They've partnered with our onboard teams to spend time within each other’s operational areas, fostering a deeper understanding of roles and responsibilities. This collaborative approach has strengthened cross-functional relationships, leading to smoother customer journeys and a noticeable reduction in service escalations.
• Proactive Outreach: They've launched a series of proactive initiatives aimed at identifying and supporting customers before issues escalated—we saw a 38% reduction in complaints thanks . These efforts included enhancing our automated phone systems to communicate service disruptions more effectively, strengthening coaching and training to improve first-call resolution, and updating website content to provide clearer, more accessible information for customers.
Recognition & Culture
• Internal Recognition: The team was acknowledged in company-wide leadership communications for excellence in customer advocacy following the publication of the ORR survey results for complaint handling and satisfaction.
• Training & Development: Invested in advanced training for empathy, conflict resolution, and systems knowledge to elevate service quality.
• Team Culture: Fostered a culture of accountability and compassion, where every team member is empowered to make a difference.
In our most recent staff engagement survey, as a team we scored 89%, which was an improvement of 26% from the last survey.
In a passenger survey carried out by the Office of Rail and Road, the team finished as the 2024/25 champions in:
• Passenger Satisfaction with Complaints Handling
• Passenger Satisfaction with Complaint Operator
It is the first time the Customer Relations Team completed the double in the 20-strong TOC league
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Elaine Ellis, Station Retailer
Company Name
Merseyrail
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Elaine Ellis, Station Retailer, Town Green Station
We would like to nominate Elaine for her exceptional dedication to customer service. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure every customer feels valued, heard, and supported. Her professionalism is matched only by her warmth and empathy, making every interaction not just efficient, but genuinely uplifting. Whether handling complex issues or offering simple guidance, Elaine brings a level of care and attention that sets a gold standard. Her ability to remain calm under pressure, resolve concerns swiftly, and leave customers smiling is truly remarkable. She embodies the spirit of service and is a shining example of what great customer care should look like. It’s a privilege to work alongside someone so committed to excellence. Here are some comments from her customers:
“Elaine is always very helpful and willing to give advice. I purchased a monthly pass with the help of her advice as she is very observant and noticed I travel to different stations
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Glasgow Customer Ambassadors
Company Name
Transpennine Express
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Customer Ambassadors Team Glasgow Central is a new role which aims to provide a service for Assistance team and,carry it out in a daily professional manner to the Delight of manager Carrie Donaldson who built this team
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Jeron James
Company Name
Grand Central
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Jeron is one of the Grand Central train drivers based at the Sunderland Depot. However, he goes above and beyond this role on every shift. When travelling he routinely supports his catering colleagues, either behind the buffet helping prepare and serve customers or delivering refreshments and interacting with our customers, going above and beyond his core duties.
Jeron also helps our senior conductors by preparing and labelling the trains with reservations. He does this every shift with enthusiasm – nothing is too much for him. In a role that can be challenging and tiring, Jeron’s positive attitude and willingness help shines through and is a fantastic example of putting the customer first and supporting his colleagues. Employees like Jeron make working at Grand Central enjoyable and his enthusiasm rubs off on staff and customers.
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Johnstone Station Staff
Company Name
ScotRail
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I am nominating the Johnstone Station staff for they are helpful, friendly, patient, and understanding.
I travel from Johnstone to Glasgow every morning and it's a pleasure to buy my ticket at Johnstone Station.
The staff their get to know their regular customers and ALWAYS greet me with a 'hello Steve' or 'good morning Steve'. It's an utter pleasure to visit the Station as it really sets me off to a great and cheerful start to my day.
They keep the Station and its grounds very tidy and in the winter months, make sure it's well salted.
I've noticed that it's not only me who they are friendly to, but other customers as well, and they are VERY patient towards those who ask them questions or don't quite understand what they want or need. Even those who get a bit upset with regards to price increases, they are calm, collective and explain things to reassure the customers.
A BIG thank you to: Susan, Janice, Claire, and Zoe for giving me the start to the day that they do.
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Kris Sobis
Company Name
West Midlands Railway
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It is with great enthusiasm that I nominate Kris, a senior conductor on the Snow Hill lines, for this award. Kris consistently demonstrates exceptional customer service, earning praise from both passengers and colleagues alike. Their commitment to excellence is reflected in the continuous positive feedback they receive and their willingness to go above and beyond in every situation.
A standout example of Kris’s dedication occurred when they encountered a passenger who had been bitten by a dog. Without hesitation, Kris provided immediate assistance by dressing the wound, offering reassurance, and ensuring the passenger’s comfort throughout their journey. Remarkably, while extending this compassionate support, Kris maintained the train’s schedule and seamlessly addressed queries from other passengers. This incident exemplifies their ability to balance efficiency with genuine care.
Beyond singular moments of extraordinary service, Kris’s daily contributions elevate the travel experience for countless passengers. Their announcements are not only clear and articulate but also personal, creating a welcoming atmosphere on board. Time and again, I have observed passengers around me expressing appreciation for Kris’s presence, reinforcing the profound impact they have.
For example, on a particularly busy service earlier this year, Kris made an announcement as we pulled into Jewellery Quarter station reassuring passengers he would wait for people to depart the train and was aware we would need extra time due to how busy the train was. Multiple passengers commented on how grateful they were for his announcements and that it was nice to know staff were 'present on the service' and here to help. This is Kris on every train service I seem him conducting.
Within the depot, Kris is a beacon of positivity. Their proactive approach to customer service, problem-solving, and teamwork makes them an invaluable asset.
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Kwaku Sapong
Company Name
GTR
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I would like to nominate my team leader Kwaku Sapong for the star award ✨️ in recognition of his outstanding contributions to our team and to the industry on a whole.
Kwaku has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, and commitment to all he does. He ensures that our team operates to the highest standards. Always putting passengers' safety and services first. His proactive approach to problem-solving, attention to details and calm guidance during challenging situations have not only kept our operations running smoothly but have also inspired confidence within our team.
Beyond his technical knowledge and reliability, Kwaku leads with integrity and respect. He supports every member of the team, ensuring we all feel valued, motivated, and equipped to perform at our best. His dedication creates a positive working environment, which directly translates into a safer, more efficient, and customer focused railway.
I strongly believe that Kwaku deserves this recognition. His leadership and commitment reflect the value of excellence and teamwork that Star Award represents.
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Laura Holmes
Company Name
Southeastern Railway
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Laura Holmes is our Accessibility and Inclusion Manager at Southeastern. Laura has put processes in place to ensure that any passengers who require assistance travelling on our network are able to travel with dignity. Laura has rolled out a learning review process for accessible travel within the business to ensure anyone that requires assistance gets that assistance and it is delivered at a high standard and if it is not delivered then we review how it went wrong in a learning review so we can learn and improve.
Laura has supported the growth of the Mobile Assist Team who are a team that travels on the network offering assistance and this has had a huge impact on the service we are able to deliver to our passengers.
The work Laura has done with stakeholders in and out of the business has ensured that everyone in our business station staff, onboard staff, Managers, the managing director are invested and want to ensure we are delivering the best possible service for people who require assistance.
Laura is someone who is professional and driven who has a lot of empathy for staff and customers and stands out as an exceptional manager who is making positive change.
Laura has helped with EQIA across the business for events, engineering works and business cases.
Laura has changed how Southeastern looks at accessible travel and helped shape the way we as a business look at how to best support our customers. This has lead to a huge increase in accessable travel bookings and positive feedback from our customers.
I'm blown away by the amount of projects Laura is involved in and the level of work Laura manages to get through while always having time to speak to you and answer questions. Honestly Laura stands out as one of the greatest managers I've ever worked with.
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Laurie Garrett
Company Name
CrossCountry Trains
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Laurie is a train manager and also a coach at Bristol Temple Meads for CrossCountry trains, myself I have been in the same role for 30 years and have never seen customer service like it for a young man he is outstanding, loads of examples but the one that sticks in my mind floods in the winter around the south west he was on the platform surrounded by passengers when other staff disappeared but he calmly and professionally helped everyone to the best of his ability, also as a train manager coach his knowledge is fantastic from helping new starters to old fossils like me with technology, Laurie is wasted as a train manager he absolutely deserves to move higher up the ladder as his knowledge is far superior to the management team in place the railway would be far better with people as good as Laurie was running it he is that good.
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Linzi Corbiere
Company Name
East Midlands Railway
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Linzi Corbiere exemplifies the very best of railway service through her extraordinary dedication, compassion and professionalism in her role as Customer Service Officer at Sheffield – one of EMR’s busiest hub stations. In every aspect of her work, Linzi consistently goes above and beyond, demonstrating a calm, proactive and courageous approach that enhances passenger safety, operational effectiveness and staff wellbeing.
Her commitment is especially evident when in high-pressure and challenging situations. In severe winter conditions, Linzi works tirelessly to ensure the station remains safe, often spending hours clearing snow and treating ice – not because she is asked, but because she instinctively puts the safety of others first. Whether leading Passenger Assist operations, managing disruption or making time-critical decisions during incidents, she leads by example and earns the respect of colleagues and managers alike.
Linzi has also made a significant impact through her quiet courage in life-saving int
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Nicholas Keys
Company Name
GTR
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When it comes to delivering exceptional customer service, Nick sets the gold standard. As an On Board Supervisor, he not only fulfils the responsibilities of his role with professionalism and dedication, but goes far beyond what is expected, consistently delighting customers and leaving a lasting positive impression with everyone he meets.
Nick’s passion for people and his commitment to providing a personalised experience shines through on every train he works. We have received lots of positive feedback from customers for Nick about how impressed they were with the service they received from him. They regularly comment on how Nick made their journey not just smooth, but enjoyable and memorable thanks to his warm personable manner and clear, informative announcements. His commentary doesn’t just keep people informed, it keeps them engaged, smiling, and at ease. For many, it becomes a highlight of their journey.
What sets Nick apart is his unshakable dedication to helping every customer, no matter how simple or complex their needs. He never rushes anyone and takes genuine care to ensure they feel confident, well informed, and supported. Whether someone is a nervous traveller, unsure about connections or they simply want to know the best seat to enjoy the view, Nick gives them his full attention. Customers have frequently remarked on how reassured and valued they felt after speaking with him. His actions go beyond just doing his job and he makes it his mission to make everyone’s journey a memorable one.
Nick’s friendliness and attentiveness are never superficial. His interactions are heartfelt and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life is inspiring. He brings humour, compassion and professionalism together in a way that makes people feel truly seen and cared for. His thoughtful service has helped anxious passengers relax, families feel welcome and even seasoned commuters smile.
Whilst it's easy to say that this is just what the role requires of him, what Nick does is clearly more than that. He goes the extra mile not occasionally, but every day. His commitment doesn’t waver, and his consistent positivity, calm and confident approach elevates the customer experience for everyone on board.
In delivering the highest standards of customer service, Nick enhances individual journeys and strengthens customer trust and loyalty. Customers who encounter Nick often say they look forward to travelling with us again which is perhaps the highest praise of all.
Nick is a shining example of what it means to care, connect and create memorable moments. He is an outstanding ambassador for our railway, and deserves this recognition for the incredible service he provides day in, day out.
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Ollie Ivan
Company Name
SWR
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Customer Service Nomination – Ollie Ivan
I would like to nominate Ollie Ivan for his outstanding customer service and professionalism. Although Ollie has been working as a Guard for just under a year, he has consistently demonstrated exceptional commitment to passengers, to his role, and to representing the company in a positive and professional manner.
Over the past year, we have received numerous compliments from customers praising his excellent service, his ability to manage challenging situations, and his calm, professional approach when resolving conflicts on board.
A recent example highlights these qualities particularly well. A customer travelling alone wrote to commend Ollie after an incident where a group of five noisy and apparently intoxicated adults boarded the train. Despite being relatively young himself, Ollie remained calm and composed throughout. He politely asked the group to extinguish a small fire they had started and then continued to check in on the carriage every 5–10 minutes, engaging with them calmly to ensure safety and reassurance. During this time, he also went out of his way to assist an elderly couple who had become confused about their destination, helping them find alternative transport.
The customer noted how Ollie’s kind and helpful manner, along with his visible presence, was very reassuring. Once the group had disembarked, Ollie made an announcement to the remaining passengers apologising for being delayed with “some other passengers” and letting them know he was now available should anyone require assistance. The customer was extremely impressed and asked that Ollie be formally recognised for his professionalism and care.
This is just one of many examples. Ollie consistently achieves 100% in Mystery Shopper assessments, further demonstrating his dedication to high standards. In addition, he represented the company at the Rail 200 Train event in July 2025, where he engaged with the public by demonstrating the VR Simulator, promoting the railway, and encouraging more people to travel by train.
We are extremely proud of Ollie’s achievements. It is remarkable to see someone so early in their career display such maturity, compassion, and commitment to customer service. He is a credit to the company and an excellent role model for his colleagues.
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Penrith Station
Company Name
Avanti West Coast
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Penrith Station is a diamond of a station nestled on the west coast main line. We have a multi functional team that really do put the customer experience front and centre of every action and decision. In the last year they have had a number of vulnerable people they have looked after. Ranging from suicidal individuals to youngsters that are running away. Every one of these incidents dealt with care and compassion. In addition to this the team work closely with the local community. They raise thousands of pounds for the Lake District Mountain Rescue with the book sale in the waiting room and have close ties with Garden of Eden - Penrith Community Gardeners who provide planting initiatives and gorgeous displays.
The team regularly achieve 100% in our internal customer experience audits which reflects their passion for our service and customers.
Recently they won the National Rail Award for Best Small Station. A high accolade up against the UK's best.
To win this award would mean the world to me as their manager and the team as it recognises the hard work and commitment they deliver day in, day out.
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15
EQUALITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION TEAM OR PERSON AWARD
This award recognises individuals or teams dedicated to fostering equality, diversity, and inclusion within the railway industry. It celebrates those who have made a tangible impact by championing diversity, challenging bias, and ensuring equal opportunities for all. Nominees may include leaders, teams, or advocates who have implemented initiatives that promote inclusivity and create a more equitable rail industry.
Example job titles in this category:
EDI, Advocate, Culture and Engagement Business Partner, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Advisor, Diversity and Inclusion Lead, Equality Specialist...
You can see all the past winners here.
Armed Forces Employee Network (Patrick Hodgson, Geraint Bartie, Rob Brown)
Company Name
Northern Trains
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At Northern, we’re passionate about making everyone feel welcome—whether you’re a colleague or a customer. Back in 2020, we kicked off our EDI (Equality, Diversity & Inclusion) Strategy, and since then, we’ve been on a mission to make Northern a place where everyone belongs.
About 18 months ago, we took things up a notch by launching our colleague network framework. The idea? To create safe, supportive spaces where people can connect, share, and support each other. And that’s exactly how the Northern Armed Forces Network was born—over a simple coffee chat between Geraint Bartie and Duane Stott, two colleagues with military backgrounds who spotted a gap in support for our Armed Forces community.
What started as a heartfelt conversation quickly turned into something much bigger. Geraint and Duane, driven by their own experiences and a real desire to help, set out to build a community for Veterans, Reservists, Spouses, Cadet Force Volunteers, and anyone connected to the military. With Patrick Hodgson (former REME) stepping up as Chair (and Geraint and Rob Brown as Vice-Chairs), the network has gone from strength to strength.
Here’s what makes the Northern Armed Forces Network so special:
• Real Growth: Since formal leadership took the reins, membership has shot up by 60%—we’re now 184 strong and counting!
• Amazing Champions: Over 20 passionate colleagues represent us at career fairs, panels, and community events, flying the flag for Northern and the Armed Forces.
• Mental Health Matters: We’ve got trained mental health first aiders from Armed Forces community on hand, making sure everyone has someone to talk to.
• Big Wins: We’re proud holders of the Ministry of Defense Gold Employer Recognition Scheme Award (as of August 2025!) and we’ve helped change company policy so Cadet volunteers get the same special leave as Reservists.
• Community Spirit: From Remembrance Day events, talking at our local schools to volunteering with Hull 4 Heroes, we’re always out and about, supporting our local communities and our young people.
• Industry Leaders: We’ve even been featured in Civvy Street Magazine, a big name in military resettlement. We actively collaborate with the Career Transition Partnership (CTP), Forces Transition Group (FTG) and other organisations to showcase Northern careers and support smooth transitions into civilian employment.
• Sharing the Love: We’ve helped other train companies (like LNER) set up their own Armed Forces networks, and we’re always there to support our fellow employee networks at Northern. Together we can achieve more!
But this nomination isn’t just about what we’ve achieved—it’s about how we’ve done it. The Armed Forces Network is all about inclusive leadership, teamwork, and a genuine passion for making a difference. We’re not just ticking boxes; we’re building a real sense of belonging, where everyone can be themselves and thrive.
Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the team, Northern isn’t just a great place to work—it’s a true home away from home for our military community.
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Beyond Barriers - a social mobility network for the railways
Company Name
50+ rail organisations including Network Rail, TOCs, DFTo and suppliers
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I am proud to nominate Beyond Barriers - rail's first across-industry social mobility network - for the RailStaff Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Team Award.
Launched in early 2025, Beyond Barriers has rapidly become a catalyst for change, uniting over 300 members from 50 rail organisations and engaging 500+ LinkedIn followers. Its mission is clear: to dismantle the social, cultural, and structural barriers that hinder individuals from disadvantaged and underrepresented backgrounds from entering and thriving in the rail industry.
The network’s vision is bold and inclusive - an industry where talent from all walks of life can flourish, regardless of background or starting point. In just a few months, Beyond Barriers has laid strong foundations by:
• Building strategic relationships with industry leaders, unions, and stakeholders.
• Raising awareness of social mobility challenges, including the lack of data and inclusive language.
• Creating safe spaces for members to share lived experiences and foster mutual support.
This work is already shifting the culture across the sector, sparking vital conversations and inspiring action.
A cornerstone of Beyond Barriers’ success is the unwavering support of Andrew Haines, CEO of Network Rail, who serves as its executive sponsor. His leadership goes beyond endorsement - he actively champions the network’s goals, making Beyond Barriers a priority for Network Rail and the wider railway sector. His commitment sends a powerful message: social mobility is not a side initiative, but a strategic priority for the industry.
Looking ahead, Beyond Barriers is poised to deliver transformative impact. The network is developing a suite of initiatives to address barriers to career progression, including:
• Mentorship programmes to connect emerging talent with experienced professionals.
• Training workshops focused on confidence-building, career navigation, and inclusive leadership.
• Roadshow at stations and maintenance depots, involving individuals that might have been disconnected with EDI initiatives in the past.
• Tailored support to guide individuals through key career milestones.
• Feeding back to the industry Social Mobility Working group and supporting the creation of industry partnerships
These programmes will empower employees at all levels, ensuring that potential is recognised and nurtured - not overlooked due to lack of access or opportunity.
Despite being in its infancy, Beyond Barriers is already making waves. It is redefining what inclusion looks like in rail, championing equity, and building a community where everyone belongs. This award would honour the network’s early achievements and spotlight its immense potential to reshape the industry for generations to come.
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Charlotte Briers
Company Name
Alstom, Litchurch Lane
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Leadership in today’s world is not just about leading from the front—it’s about inspiring transformation and cultivating change from within. Charlotte Briers exemplifies this modern approach, championing empowerment, diversity, and progress as part of Alstom’s female employee resource group (ERG), Voices of Women. Under her leadership, the group expanded significantly, bringing together a supportive community where women can share experiences, learn, and uplift one another in their professional journeys.
Charlotte’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond gender, as she collaborates closely with Alstom’s other ERGs—Voices of Cultural Diversity, Voices of Disability, and Voices of Pride+. Her vision is to foster an environment where diverse perspectives are celebrated and where every employee feels heard and valued.
Central to Charlotte’s leadership philosophy is her dedication to sponsoring and uplifting others. She launched the Women@Alstom Spotlight series to showcase accomplished female leaders at all levels of the UK and Ireland business. Each month, the series highlights a different woman, sharing her career story to inspire others and build a visible network of role models. Charlotte herself inaugurated the series, openly sharing her own professional and personal experiences. She also encouraged group members to participate, ensuring that each spotlight included a written case study, internal communications, a feature on the Voices of Women site, a comprehensive brochure, and a public LinkedIn post.
Charlotte’s drive for progress is evident in the multiple initiatives she leads. She raises awareness about the need for female-specific PPE, has introduced period care products in public restrooms, promotes inclusive language, organizes networking events, and advocates for policies that reflect the diversity of the workforce. She has also supported senior managers in connecting with junior female employees through “Skip Meetings,” and even championed International Men’s Day, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity for all employees.
One of Charlotte’s key focuses is on achieving gender parity, not simply advancing opportunities for women. She recognizes that true equality involves supporting all employees—highlighting, for example, the challenges women face if their partners lack access to family-friendly policies. This insight led her to launch a campaign spotlighting working fathers who have embraced flexible roles, thus promoting equal parenting within the organization.
With a forward-looking perspective, Charlotte is dedicated to preparing women for leadership positions across industries, nurturing a pipeline of confident future leaders. She has taken a personal interest in the female development program “Springboard,” encouraging participation and personally engaging with potential candidates to explain its benefits.
Charlotte’s unwavering dedication, compassion, and insight have made her a beacon of change within Alstom. Her efforts have shaped a workplace that values diversity, unity, and growth. In November 2024, Charlotte received the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) Verena Winifred Holmes Award, recognizing her outstanding leadership in promoting diversity and inclusion in the rail industry, especially as head of Voices of Women. As a mother of two young daughters, she stands as an inspirational role model—both within her family and across the broader community—continuing to pave the way toward a more inclusive and empowered future.
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Dawn Lindop
Company Name
Arriva Train Care
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Dawn Lindop has dedicated the last 25 years to the rail industry and is widely recognised at Arriva Train Care where her neurodiverse colleagues, particularly those with ADHD and autism, feel supported and able to thrive.
Through Dawn’s approach to inclusive recruitment, she consistently challenges bias across the company and ensures that all opportunities are awarded purely on merit.
In her time at ATC Dawn has introduced a range of practical initiatives such as weekly check-ins, multiple support anchors and open team discussions. These changes have strengthened trust, collaboration and psychological safety across the organisation.
Dawn’s commitment goes far beyond her immediate team. By sharing her learning during National Inclusion Week, she has prompted wider conversations across the business about equity and belonging. She embodies the values of this award, as a leader who champions diversity, delivers tangible improvements and inspires others to create a more inclusive rail industry.
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Hereford Off Track Team
Company Name
Network Rail Wales & Borders
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Nomination for Ian Harris, Dale Caviell, Lisa Caviell, James Spooner, Joanna Cheeseman
I am proud to nominate the Off Track Team for their outstanding commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion through their ground breaking work with individuals from HMP Prescoed.
In a bold and compassionate move, the team opened up two employment opportunities specifically for individuals on day release from HMP Prescoed. From the outset, the line managers were deeply involved—helping to shape the vision of the roles, identifying the key attributes they were looking for, and actively participating in the interview and selection process.
This initiative was far from straightforward. The team faced a number of challenges, including some false starts and early setbacks. However, what stood out was their unwavering dedication to the core values of inclusion, second chances, and social responsibility. Rather than give up, they adapted, learned, and persevered.
Thanks to their resilience and inclusive mindset, the Off Track Team has successfully onboarded two fantastic individuals who are not only thriving in their roles but also making meaningful contributions to the team’s mission. This initiative exemplifies what it means to break down barriers and create real pathways to rehabilitation and reintegration.
The team’s approach—grounded in empathy, open-mindedness, and practical action—has had a lasting impact on both the individuals involved and the wider organisation. Their work sets a powerful example of how inclusion can be embedded into recruitment practices and workplace culture.
The Off Track Team's efforts are a testament to what can be achieved when equity, diversity, and inclusion are not just spoken about, but lived through action. This initiative has not only changed lives but it has generated over £100,00 of social value.
The team are truly deserving of this recognition.
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James Gossage
Company Name
LNER
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James Gossage has become one of the most passionate and visible champions of equity, diversity and inclusion within LNER and across the wider rail industry. Starting his career on the frontline as a Train Manager, James has always believed in the importance of people before processes. That belief has grown into action, as he has used his lived experience and natural leadership to create spaces where colleagues feel safe, valued and supported.
James is the co-founder and co-chair of ManKind, the first men’s network in the rail industry. The network was created to give men permission to talk about issues that had too often been hidden. Topics such as mental health, loneliness, stress, addictions, relationships, parenting and suicide are not easy to raise in the workplace. James has made them part of everyday conversation. His approach has broken down barriers and shown that vulnerability is not weakness but strength.
The impact of his leadership can be seen in the way ManKind has grown. Under James’s guidance the network has delivered regular online sessions, wellbeing walks and campaigns that have reached hundreds of colleagues. The “Men for Miles” challenge, which pitted North, South and Yorkshire teams against each other, saw over 700 people take part across LNER. What started as a simple step competition became a movement for wellbeing and connection. It is a clear example of James’s ability to turn an idea into an inclusive initiative with lasting impact.
James is not only focused on men. He has worked with other networks and external partners, including White Ribbon, to tackle misogyny and encourage better conversations about how men talk about women. He has also ensured that women are welcomed into ManKind, offering advice and support in how they can help the men in their lives. His view of inclusion is always wide and collaborative, never narrow.
What makes James stand out is his authenticity. He does not promote inclusion as a policy or a corporate message. He lives it. He shares his own experiences openly and encourages others to do the same. Colleagues trust him because they see that he is genuine, and they are inspired to speak up themselves. Many men across LNER have said that hearing a colleague share a story through ManKind gave them the courage to seek help. That ripple effect is the measure of true ED&I leadership.
James has recently taken on a new role as Station Delivery Manager at King’s Cross, bringing his passion for inclusion into one of the busiest parts of the network. His vision is to continue building a culture where people feel able to bring their whole selves to work, and where the rail industry is known for being open, supportive and inclusive.
James Gossage is not just part of the ED&I conversation. He is driving it forward. His work has broken stigma, changed behaviours and created a legacy that will last. For these reasons he deserves recognition as ED&I Champion of the Year.
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Lucas Butler
Company Name
Mitie Security Ltd
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I am delighted to nominate Lucas Butler for his exceptional commitment to being a Diversity & Inclusion Ally at Mitie.
Lucas has been a driving force in championing gender equality and fostering an inclusive culture. As National Security Account Manager on the Network Rail contract, he has consistently gone above and beyond his role to support D&I initiatives, helping to break down barriers and encourage open conversations, particularly women’s health and wellbeing in the workplace.
Lucas played a pivotal role in the delivery of a recent podcast series, particularly Episode 3: Blood, Sweat, & Careers. His willingness to participate as a panellist, share personal insights, and advocate for open dialogue around menstrual health has helped to destigmatize this important topic and promote a more supportive environment for female colleagues. Lucas’s empathy, professionalism, and collaborative spirit were instrumental in making the episode a success.
Beyond the podcast, Lucas is an active D&I Ally, regularly engaging with colleagues to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. He is known for his approachability and for creating safe spaces where everyone feels valued and heard and for taking selfies with frontline colleagues promoting the great work they do on social media platforms.
Lucas’s dedication, leadership, and genuine passion for inclusion make him a true role model. He exemplifies the values of Mitie and inspires others to get involved and make a difference.
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ManKind - LNER's network for men
Company Name
LNER
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We believe ManKind to be the first network of its kind in the rail industry, set up by frontline colleagues who wanted to challenge the norm and give men permission to talk about subjects that for generations they may have kept quiet about. Mental health, loneliness, addictions, stress, relationships, parenting and suicide are not easy topics, but they are real and they affect men every day. ManKind exists to open those conversations, break down barriers and show that men do not have to face these challenges alone.
What makes ManKind different is that it goes further than awareness campaigns or signposting. It has built a safe, trusted space where men feel able to share their stories, listen to each other and learn that vulnerability is strength. The impact has been powerful. We have seen colleagues who once stayed silent now stand up and talk about their own struggles, which in turn has encouraged others to seek support for the first time.
The network is open to all men in the business, and it also involves women who want advice and support in helping the men in their lives. It is not an exclusive club. It is about creating a culture where everyone feels part of the conversation. By working closely with other internal networks, and with external charities such as White Ribbon, ManKind has also helped to tackle wider issues such as misogyny and the way men talk about women. This is about raising standards and changing behaviours as well as supporting individuals.
ManKind has already delivered a wide range of initiatives. Regular online sessions give men the chance to connect in a safe space. Walks offer the opportunity to open up in a more relaxed setting. Our “Men for Miles” challenge brought the North, South and Yorkshire teams together in a step competition. More than 700 colleagues across LNER took part, showing that wellbeing can be fun, competitive and inclusive.
The network is working to change culture across the railway. Instead of focusing only on awareness days such as suicide prevention or men’s health, ManKind puts lived experience at the heart of its work. When colleagues share their personal stories of struggle and survival, it breaks stigma in a way no poster or campaign could. We have seen men take action to seek support because they heard a peer speak honestly about what they had faced.
ManKind is also reshaping how men are seen in the workplace. It is helping to create better colleagues, partners and fathers by making it normal to ask for help and to talk about pressures that once stayed hidden. These conversations are rewriting the rules on what it means to be a man at work.
This is more than a network. It is a grassroots movement, born on the frontline, now making waves across the wider rail industry. It is breaking down barriers, challenging long-standing stereotypes and proving that men’s networks can transform culture. ManKind deserves recognition as the ED&I Team of the Year
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Michael Nutman
Company Name
GWR
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
For almost half a decade, Michael has led a team of tireless volunteers from our LGBTQ+ employee network, Aspect, to deliver our attendance at Pride events across our network. Seeing increasing numbers and increasing partnership with fellow train operating companies and rail-industry partners, our celebration and commemoration of Pride has gone from strength-to-strength, due to Mike’s work.
Despite a busy and complex workload on the front line of our business as a Guard, Mike puts in the time, over-and-over, to ensure a meaningful participation in Pride.
Mike recognises the significance of Pride as an opportunity for community and collaboration. Mike leads our efforts, with little fanfare or ego, encouraging collaboration and opportunities for fellow network members to challenge themselves and to develop. What Mike recognises is that Pride is about everyone and for every member of the LGBTQ+ community; it’s a place and space where LGBTQ+ people can showcase be and showcase themselves openly.
From leading our participation, as a ubiquitous South West brand, in Pride established Pride events such as Bristol and Cardiff, Mike has led the expansion of our efforts to support developing Pride celebrations in Exeter and Winsor and Eton. Mike and the team recognise that LGBTQ+ people exist in all areas of our networks, both urban and rural, and that Pride is a beacon of acceptance to each of them. By making our presence felt, Mike helps our customers and the communities we serve (as well as our diverse colleagues) to feel seen, supported and included.
At GWR we aim to be great experience makers; Mike epitomises this commitment, as well as the spirit of both Pride and inclusion more generally. Through hard-word, kindness and unwavering commitment, Michael helps GWR to take our message of tolerance, kindness and inclusion right across our network, to every corner and, in particular, to every LGBTQ+ person and ally.
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Rachael Kearns
Company Name
Mitie
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Rachael is a Regional Director for Mitie FM, look after infrastructure in Network Rail's Wales and Western Region. Alongside her role, and in her own free time, Rachael also champions our partnership with Hey Girls! This partnership ensures that free and sustainable period products are available on all Network Rail sites.
Hey Girls are revolutionising periods as the only social enterprise that donates 100% of their profit to funding the fight to eradicate period poverty and lobby for period dignity across the UK.
In under 5 years, they have become the main provider of period products to the local authorities throughout the UK, delivering on huge corporate accounts and have won tender contracts over big commercial names. They are the only company to match their product sales exactly as donations – when you buy one, they donate one. They distribute donations via their UK wide community partner network who work on the frontline to support vulnerable people.
Rachael has been a huge advocate of the Hey Girls partnership and has led multiple workshops to increase awareness and educate Mitie staff on all things periods and period poverty. During this journey, Rachael has identified challenges within the frontline in roles such as engineering and security and has now secured a trial within Mitie to distribute free Hey Girls period pants to frontline workers as PPE.
“Rachael has been a true champion of Hey Girls, helping to raise awareness of our mission and ensuring colleagues across Mitie understand our work and how employees can access our products and education. Through her initiatives and commitment, she has not only driven meaningful change but also strengthened our partnership. Her dedication to inclusion and impact shines through in every interaction, from our regular check-ins, where she makes sure issues are raised and solutions shared, to the way she includes everyone on the Network Rail contract and beyond.
Racheal has organised educational webinars to bring menstrual health into the workplace conversation, encouraging as many colleagues as possible to attend. She has gone above and beyond by supporting colleagues across other contracts with ordering through Mitie’s intranet, ensuring no one is left behind. She has also championed collaboration with our sister charity, Pick Up My Period and had meetings with Hannah, our Director of the Charity, to see if there was more she could do. She is continuing to arrange further sessions around key dates such as International Women’s Day and is currently working on an exciting new initiative to provide period pants as part of Mitie’s uniform. Most recently, she even recorded a podcast on breaking taboos around menstrual health and its impact in the workplace, she also came to visit Hey Girls Head Office!
Racheal’s energy, passion, and leadership have created lasting change and continues to inspire others. I have really enjoyed working with Racheal, she is amazing at her job and just so lovely!”
-Jemma Atkinson, Hey Girls Contracts and Partnerships Manager
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Raye Fullard
Company Name
Rail Delivery Group
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Raye Fullard has been a transformative force for equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) within the UK rail industry. As Diversity and Inclusion Manager at Rail Delivery Group (RDG) since January 2024, Raye has delivered impactful initiatives that foster inclusivity and opportunity. Their leadership within the WIR/RIA EDI Charter Working Group and as Chair of the LGBTQ+ staff network Platform demonstrates their commitment to unlocking talent and creating supportive environments. Raye’s ability to inspire change, from embedding EDI into RDG’s culture to empowering marginalised voices, has left a lasting impact.
Since joining RDG in 2019 and serving as Diversity and Inclusion Manager since January 2024, Raye has developed a strong and effective EDI approach tailored to the unique challenges of the rail industry. Raye’s efforts have fostered an inclusive environment where diverse talent is recognised, supported and empowered to thrive. Their ability to design and implement tailored solutions reflects both deep understanding of EDI and their unwavering commitment to meaningful progress.
Within RDG, Raye’s impact has been profound. As highlighted in a testimonial, “Raye is a powerhouse – they have made incredible, positive changes within RDG and the wider industry in a short space of time. They have been instrumental in shaping and delivering the RDG EDI program, which has benefitted so many.” Under Raye’s guidance, EDI has become integral to RDG’s culture, with every new starter receiving an EDI Induction, where they are able to find out more about the organisation’s commitment to inclusion and learn about the range of networks and opportunities available to them.
Raye plays a pivotal role in RDGs networks, their involvement in staff networks goes beyond facilitation; as Diversity and Inclusion Manager they support the network leads and ensure that internal communications promote visibility and engagement. As a result, marginalised groups feel heard and supported, and allies have gained a deeper understanding of how to offer meaningful support. A colleague shared, “Raye’s efforts have ensured that employees have a platform to express their thoughts and needs, leading to a culture of collaboration and understanding.”
Beyond RDG, Raye’s efforts to engage with the wider rail community have been just as impactful. A colleague noted, “Raye works closely with other rail organisations to give marginalised people the tools and opportunities to achieve their full potential within the sector. Their encouragement helped me apply for a talent management scheme that has expanded my industry contacts and boosted my confidence.”
Raye’s work has delivered measurable results. For example, in RDG’s recent staff engagement survey, 95% of employees agreed that RDG is an inclusive organisation, a 7% percent increase on the previous year and a direct reflection of their passion and dedication. Their success stems from their ability to not only implement impactful initiatives but also inspire others to take ownership of EDI as a shared responsibility.
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TfW's EDI Team
Company Name
Transport for Wales
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TfW’s EDI Team is nominated for their Period Dignity Project, a powerful initiative that champions equality and breaks down barriers for all. By providing free, organic period products across all TfW locations, they directly addressed a hidden barrier to equality. This project actively champions diversity, challenges the stigma surrounding menstruation, and provides compelling evidence of a tangible commitment to an equitable rail environment.
Background: A Hidden Need
Before this initiative, the lack of reliable access to period products created a subtle yet significant barrier for colleagues at TfW, especially for those working shifts or in remote locations. This oversight impacted well-being and created a daily discomfort that affected individuals' ability to fully engage in their professional lives. Recognising this, the EDI team chose to proactively address this need, setting out to create a more supportive and inclusive workplace for all.
Our Solution: Challenging Bias and Promoting Equity
The team’s approach was rooted in its commitment to EDI principles. They implemented a comprehensive, company-wide solution to provide free, organic, and plastic-free period products. They ensured the project was universally accessible, providing products across all sites. The team directly confronted menstrual stigma by creating educational materials, including a comprehensive guidance document and FAQs. The project’s success relied on its hands-on implementation, where the team overcame logistical challenges to establish a network of volunteer Period Champions
Impact and Results
The project has delivered significant and demonstrable outcomes. The initiative has tangibly reduced stigma, as can be seen through increased engagement from male colleagues who actively sought information and contributed to the project, demonstrating a positive cultural shift. The consistently high reorder rates prove the genuine need and success of the initiative, with the established network of Period Champions ensuring the project is self-sustaining. By addressing an often-hidden need, the EDI team has created a more equitable and supportive environment, setting a new standard for the wider rail industry. Their work demonstrates a true dedication to fostering equality, challenging bias, and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
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The Greatest Gathering Pride Parade
Company Name
Journey and Alstom
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
In a landmark moment for both the rail industry and the global LGBTQ+ community, the team behind Journey – the not-for-profit network for LGBTQ+ professionals in transport – orchestrated the world’s first Pride parade on a train at Alstom’s The Greatest Gathering in Derby. This historic event, held during the world’s largest-ever gathering of historic and modern trains on Saturday 2 August 2025, was a vibrant celebration of inclusion, visibility and unity across the UK rail sector.
Those marching across Derby Litchurch Lane Works represented various railway-related companies including Alstom, Angel Trains, AtkinsRéalis, Avanti West Coast, Hitachi Rail and Transport for London (TfL). They were led by fierce drag performers: Alexander Garnett-Scherer, Senior Operations Manager at TfL – known as Connie Tactless ‘Mother of Oyster’; Lee Nicholson-Brown, London Underground train driver – aka Lady Felicia; and Medusa Has Been. Members of the Alstom UK and Ireland Senior Leadership Team also joined the parade, including its Managing Director, Rob Whyte.
After a procession across the 90-acre train factory site, the colourful cavalcade paused for a photoshoot in front of Avanti West Coast’s Pride Pendolino No. 390119 ‘Progress’. Unveiled in 2020, it is the first train in the UK to be fully wrapped in the progressive Pride flag. The procession then continued on to the train itself.
Following this, the parade moved towards the 1.6 km-long Test Track that curves around Alstom’s Derby site. Here, marchers boarded a Class 345 Aventra train – designed, engineered, manufactured and tested at Litchurch Lane. Normally, the train serves passengers on London’s transformational Elizabeth line, but it returned to Derby for the weekend to offer rides for visitors to The Greatest Gathering.
Fittingly, the unit chosen to attend the event – No. 345055 – has carried its own ‘trainbow’ since 2023, making it another perfect vehicle to host the second parade on a train at The Greatest Gathering. A special announcement then signified to passengers the historical significance of the journey, which attracted cheers from the hundreds on board who had witnessed the spectacle.
The event was more than a celebration – it was a bold statement of intent. In a time when LGBTQ+ rights face increasing challenges globally, Journey and its co-chairs, Pippa Armstrong (Alstom) and Joe Brown (TfL), demonstrated unwavering leadership and courage. Their message was clear: LGBTQ+ individuals are welcome, valued and safe in the rail industry – as colleagues, customers and community members.
Over three days (1-3 August 2025), Alstom welcomed over 40,000 railfans from around the globe at its Derby factory. The trainmaker's sold-out charity extravaganza formed part of the wider festivities for Railway 200. It also marked the first time in almost 50 years that the Derby factory had opened its doors to the public. Organisers specifically asked for both Pride-liveried units to be on display at The Greatest Gathering to showcase the diversity of Britain’s rail industry, and provide a safe, inclusive and visible space for railfans attending the world’s biggest-ever train festival.
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Trevor Boyd, Alan Daly, Alan Davies, Sian Hawkins, Simon Peacock - Team
Company Name
Network Rail
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
I’d like to put forward the Wales and Western Inclusion & Engagement Team, led by Trevor Boyd, for recognition of their exceptional contribution to the wellbeing and development of our people.
Trevor and his team have played a pivotal role in shaping a more supportive and resilient culture across the business. Through initiatives like the Great People Manager programme and Mental Health First Aid training, they’ve helped equip colleagues with practical tools and emotional insight that have made a tangible difference. The impact is clear — teams are more confident, connected, and better prepared to lead with empathy.
What sets this team apart is not just the quality of their delivery, but the humanity behind it. Alan Daly, in particular, has shown remarkable dedication — not only in supporting our own team through Leading Through Change sessions, which were both timely and transformative — but also in the way he’s continued to give so much of himself despite personal tragedy. The support Alan received from Trevor and the team during an incredibly difficult time was deeply compassionate and speaks volumes about the values they live by.
Together, Trevor, Alan, Sian, Simon, and the wider team have fostered an environment where people feel heard, supported, and empowered. Their work has helped shift the conversation around mental health and leadership from something optional to something essential — and in doing so, they’ve made a lasting difference.
I believe their contribution deserves to be recognised not just for the programmes they’ve delivered, but for the culture they’ve helped build — one rooted in care, inclusion, and genuine human connection.
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Women Connecting for Success - Lisa Lewis, Sally Oulton & Jess Dorney
Company Name
Network Rail
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Recognising a gap in support, visibility, and connection for women across West Coast South, this year Lisa, Sally and Jess took the initiative to create Women Connecting for Success – a network for women to come together across the route to share experiences, understand challenges faced by women working within a traditionally male dominated industry, empower one another, providing a supportive environment to foster positive change across the route.
Through their leadership, the network has:
Fostered a safe, inclusive community where women feel heard, empowered, and valued.
Led initiatives that address real barriers to career development, such as launching the women connecting for success mentoring programme, career development sessions, and network events, one being a full day event in September with a focus on supporting women to have difficult conversations, development and growth of women in the workplace, giving them the ability to speak up and out where they might not always have a voice or feel th
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15
GRADUATE OF THE YEAR AWARD
This award recognises outstanding recent graduates who have completed a graduate program and are already making significant contributions to the rail industry. The judges will be looking for individuals who embody passion, creativity, and leadership, and demonstrate exceptional talent and innovation.
Example job titles in this category...
Graduate Engineer, Graduate Project Manager, Graduate Electrical Engineer....
You can see all the past winners here.
Alex Gerhard
Company Name
BTTC
Photo
Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Alex deserves this award in recognition of his exceptional contributions to both BTTC and our clients, particularly Network Rail.
As a Graduate Consultant within BTTC’s commercial services team, Alex has consistently demonstrated an outstanding commitment to continuous improvement within BTTC. He proactively identifies inefficiencies in internal processes and provides practical and sustainable solutions to how we improve. Whilst providing these improvements he communicates and collaborates in a way that enhances the development of solutions, bringing people together for a best for company solution.
His attention to detail, structured thinking, and initiative have led to multiple measurable improvements in team productivity and quality of output – benefiting not only our commercial services function but also the wider business. One example includes office sustainability improvements through smarter procurement and also the use of timed plugs. Another example is his contribution to continuously improving the BTTC Graduate programme, with multiple initiatives put in place, led by Alex, to improve the experiences of future graduates. A specific example is when he secured approval for increased investment in training for graduates, including a QS Foundation Course with the RICS. Alex gives back to the graduate process, presented lessons learned to new graduates, whilst supporting assessment days with infectious positivity.
Externally, Alex has excelled in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment, playing a fundamental role in the successful close-out of the Network Rail Crossrail Anglia project. His ability to manage complex commercial issues, maintain excellent stakeholder and client relations, whilst working at pace was outstanding during the process. This was consistently recognised by his Network Rail colleagues, evidenced by fantastic client feedback and a continuation of his services into other areas of Network Rail. Alex’s maturity, professionalism, and clarity of communication have helped build trust and deliver outcomes over and above what would be expected at his level of experience.
Alex’s alignment with BTTC’s values of Challenge, Collaboration, Customer Focussed, Integrity, Pragmatism, and Respect, is outstanding, and he is a fantastic role model to not just junior staff, but to the wider business. Whether he is improving how we work internally, or representing BTTC to our clients, Alex has proven himself to be a future leader in the Rail industry. His work ethic, positive attitude, and ability to drive change make him a truly deserving nominee.
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Ashim Sundas / Fleet Engineering Department
Company Name
Transport for Wales
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Ashim Sundas Rail Staff Awards
Ashim joined TFW as a graduate engineer having completed a mechanical engineering degree in Cardiff University in September 2023. Ashim then secured a permanent role with Transport for Wales in Jan 2025 as a fleet support engineer. This promotion happened 9 months premature from completion of the graduate scheme, as Ashim was able to demonstrate his skills and readiness to take on the upgraded role.
Ashim has continued with the Rail Delivery Group REGS scheme in parallel to the new role and is also working towards gaining Chartered Engineer status.
A significant safety and performance contribution that Ashim has made to TFW fleet production and operations has been the collaborative work supporting train departures efficiently moving off depot. Ashim has been the interface between departments and has developed a departure sheet that shows real time status of units either undergoing maintenance or units that are available for service. The departure sheet runs a macro from information provided by Tracsys, TfW’s control software and Nexala, TfW’s maintenance management system. It was achieved through leading collaborative workshops held between departments and creating a specification that meets all stakeholder and business requirements.
Operations team leaders at the depot now have foresight on work completion and more accurate planning of train departure times off depot. This has improved communications between operations team leaders and maintenance team leaders. Development of the departure sheet has also led to the creative development of a depot pinch points sheet. Monitoring and trending of task completion is now carried out, providing practical solutions to make depot efficiency improvements. One example being the supply of tablets to the cleaning team to be able to complete tasks in Nexala immediately after they have finished their work ensuring delays for train departures can be kept to a minimum.
The awareness of this project to Staff, and the successful ability in reaching this goal has been possible through Ashim’s passion, great working relationship, infectious and happy charm and perseverance of the task at hand.
I would therefore recommend Ashim as a great candidate for the rail staff graduate of the year award.
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Benjamin Roberts
Company Name
Network Rail
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
I've nominated Ben because I've worked with allot of Graduates over the past year and he is levels above everyone. He knows what to do before you've asked him, he's always helpful and willing to do the job even if it's not the best. He comes up with solutions even people who have been in the industry a long time couldn't think of. He will always be in the first in the office and last to leave and always have time for people. He has worked on important project work and has been shadowing the LOM's on the NLL in Anglia frequently picking everything up quickly and he's also the main Luminate contact in Anglia. I believe this man will go very far in Network rail and it's been a pleasure to work with him so far.
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Dylan Gosling
Company Name
Network Rail
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Dylan has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, versatility, and initiative throughout his time as a graduate, making him a standout candidate for Graduate of the Year.
One of Dylan’s most commendable achievements has been his ability to successfully cover both the Scheme Project Manager and Project Engineer roles—often simultaneously—to support and benefit the wider team. His willingness to step into multiple roles has not only ensured continuity and progress on key projects but also reflects a maturity and professionalism well beyond his experience level.
In his role as a Scheme Project Manager, Dylan has shown excellent leadership and coordination skills, ensuring that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the expected quality standards. His clear communication, strong organisational abilities, and stakeholder management have helped build trust across both internal teams and external partners.
At the same time, Dylan has excelled as a Project Engineer, demonstrating a solid technical understanding and problem-solving capability. He has taken ownership of technical deliverables, driven design solutions, and supported site activities—all while maintaining a keen eye for safety and efficiency.
Dylan's adaptability and eagerness to learn have made him an invaluable member of the team. Rather than staying within the boundaries of his role, he has proactively stepped up wherever needed, always with a positive attitude and a team-first mentality. His contributions have directly improved project outcomes and team performance.
In short, Dylan exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding graduate. His combination of technical ability, leadership potential, and commitment to team success makes him a worthy recipient of the Graduate of the Year award.
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Hana Muddassir
Company Name
Heathrow Express
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
In her role as Commercial Development Executive at Heathrow Express, Hana Muddassir has exemplified the very best qualities we seek in an outstanding graduate. Having joined Heathrow on the graduate scheme, Hana showed exceptional initiative and commitment by formally requesting to join the rail industry, inspired by the dynamic workstreams across the business and motivated by the opportunity to immerse herself in an entirely new field.
Throughout her time with Heathrow Express, Hana has consistently delivered workstreams to a standard often expected of far more experienced colleagues. She has demonstrated remarkable confidence, clear and effective communication skills, and a genuine passion for both people and the wider transport industry.
Hana’s contributions have been significant and wide-ranging. She played a key role in projects including the design concept and procurement initiation for new colleague uniforms. She also made a substantial impact supporting the rebrand of Heathrow Express and the relaunch of their First Class product. This included showcasing excellent project management skills, leading on the delivery of new train exterior branding, overseeing website and app content development, coordinating colleague product training, and supporting the PR and media launch.
For someone so recently out of education, Hana’s dedication to understanding and adding value to the commercial side of the rail industry has been remarkable. Her proactive approach, enthusiasm for learning, and consistent delivery of high-quality work make her an exceptional candidate for Graduate of the Year.
We wholeheartedly believe Hana deserves this recognition for her outstanding contribution, drive, and professionalism.
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Hannah Schumacker
Company Name
Amey
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Significant contributions to the rail industry
Hannah joined the Amey Rail Systems team as a Graduate Project Manager 18 months ago on the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) project. From the outset, she has demonstrated an outstanding ability to apply her academic learning to the challenges of a dynamic rail environment. With a degree in Project Management, Hannah quickly translated her knowledge into practical delivery, supporting both project planning and execution with professionalism and attention to detail well beyond her experience level.
In just 18 months, Hannah has made a significant impact on the TRU. Her responsibilities included chairing peer reviews of planned works, monitoring costs, and managing and leading the track team to timely and successful project delivery. Because of her background in project management, Hannah applied her skills and knowledge to create organised plans and schedules that brought structure and clarity to the project.
Hannah displays a rare and impressive combination of academic application, technical curiosity, and natural leadership. She embodies the qualities of an exceptional graduate – ambitious, capable and committed to making a positive difference.
Passion driven leadership
Hannah’s leadership qualities have also come to the fore. She has stepped up to undertake the role of Duty Manager for core track renewals and handles live site challenges with confidence, composure, and maturity. Her ability to remain calm under pressure, coordinate teams, and ensure works are delivered safely and efficiently is a testament to both her capability and her potential as a future leader in the industry.
One of the key steps Hannah took was when she managed the processes and submissions on behalf of the track team, whist also guiding the team on how to use a structured reporting system. Due to her work ethic and demonstrated abilities, she was also tasked with autonomously managing several smaller track renewals to enable major civils works, helping reduce the workload for the Senior Project Manager.
Hannah’s problem-solving skills and attention to detail have also prevailed on rail projects. She highlighted errors in the hold points and decision points that fed into the project contingency plan, saving the team time.
Talent and innovation
What sets Hannah apart is her drive to continuously expand her knowledge and step outside of her comfort zone. Recognising the importance of understanding the technical aspects of rail engineering, she has taken it upon herself to proactively obtain technical engineering qualifications, such as a level 3 in Rail Engineering, enhancing her professional and personal development and strengthening her ability to engage with site teams.
During her time on the graduate programme Hannah has successfully completed her Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award – an achievement that reflects her resilience, determination, and willingness to go the extra mile. These attributes shine through in her professional role and inspire those she
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Kai-Hsiang Huang - Euston station
Company Name
Network Rail
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Nomination for Graduate of the Year – Kai-Hsiang Huang
We are proud to nominate Kai-Hsiang Huang for the 2025 Rail Staff Awards in the category of Graduate of the Year. As a recent graduate from the Operations Management programme, Kai has already made a measurable and lasting impact on the rail industry, showcasing not only technical innovation but a deep understanding of how to deliver better outcomes for both passengers and frontline teams.
During Kai’s time with Team Euston, he identified a critical operational gap within the Assisted Travel facility. Recognising the challenges in effectively deploying staff to meet fluctuating passenger needs, Kai developed a demand-led rostering tool that has transformed how the team plans and allocates resources.
This bespoke tool forecasts the number of passengers requiring assistance on a daily basis and overlays this with staffing capabilities to generate optimised rosters. The outcome? A smarter, more agile operation that ensures resources are deployed efficiently while improving service for some of the most vulnerable passengers who rely on Assisted Travel services.
Kai's work has not only improved operations at Euston but has been shared with other National Managed Stations, and is now being adopted elsewhere across the network. This kind of scalability speaks volumes about the quality and utility of the solution, and the innovative thinking behind it.
What sets Kai apart is more than just his technical skill — it is his passion for passenger service, his creative approach to problem-solving, and his natural leadership, even at this early stage of his career. He worked collaboratively with frontline staff, listened to their challenges, and created a tool that was not only effective but practical and user-friendly. His ability to bridge operational needs with data-driven insights is exceptional.
In a short space of time, Kai has embodied everything the rail industry should encourage in its future leaders: innovation, compassion, and a drive to make things better. He has set a high standard for what it means to be a graduate in rail, and we are excited to see where his career will take him.
We wholeheartedly endorse Kai Hsiang-Huang as Graduate of the Year, confident that his early achievements are just the beginning of a promising and impactful career in rail.
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Oliver Ensor
Company Name
Network Rail
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Oliver Ensor has quickly established himself as an outstanding graduate engineer, demonstrating exceptional initiative, technical ability, and a real drive to deliver improvements across multiple asset areas in the railway. His work already spans safety, efficiency, vegetation management, assurance, and workforce development — all delivered with a professionalism well beyond his experience level.
One of Oliver’s most impactful contributions has been in Potential S&C Abandonments, where he wrote internal remits, developed business cases, and secured RSPG approval for Wylds Lane North and Up Sidings (September 2025). This achievement will lead to a network change that rationalises layout, drives efficiencies, and most importantly, delivers significant safety improvements. Oliver continues to progress similar cases across other sites.
In parallel, he has led the development of the Integrated Vegetation Management Plan, producing three detailed reports covering completed vegetation works, planned works, and spraying activity. By integrating diverse data sources — including Ellipse, structures assessments, geotechnics, and HS2 — Oliver created a comprehensive and innovative reporting suite that will be presented at the next vegetation star chamber to internal and external stakeholders, including train operators.
Oliver has also been instrumental in improving Track PRE efficiencies. By identifying opportunities for improvement and engaging with the wider team, he updated efficiencies and POPs for drainage, lineside, and track R&E, validating these with finance colleagues. His efforts directly improved performance, enabling the Track PRE function to meet its efficiency targets.
Beyond technical delivery, Oliver has shown a strong commitment to inspiring the next generation of rail professionals. He co-developed and delivered a two-week work experience programme for 16–18 year olds, collaborating with external partners such as West Midlands Trains. The programme received highly positive feedback and has provided a template for future industry engagement.
Oliver’s analytical strengths have also shone through in projects such as data alignment across INM, TRS, AIVR and TEF systems, ensuring asset information reflects the true state of renewals; identifying ballast drop opportunities aligned with disruptive access windows; and re-scoring the track renewals work bank with standardised logic to improve prioritisation.
He has also authored a Renewals Effectiveness Report, reviewed deferred sites through deep-dive assurance work (Acacia Road), and produced numerous PBRs and Level 1 assurance reports on behalf of the Track SAE (R&E). His support in revising sponsor review agendas has further enhanced governance and decision-making across the renewals portfolio.
In summary, Oliver embodies the qualities of a RailStaff Graduate of the Year: technically capable, innovative, collaborative, and passionate about making the railway safer, more efficient, and more sustainable. His contributions have already had a tangible impact on the railway and his leadership potential is clear for all to see.
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Ollie Marshall
Company Name
Alstom
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"Ollie is a highly motivated collaborative person. He’s approach to everything he does is professional, assertive, and carried out to the best of his ability. He strives to learn, help others and is very approachable. He has really excelled in his profession and has become a valued member of the team and in some cases his performance exceeds that of more experienced members of staff. He is a pleasure to work with and he is a credit to himself and the future of the railway. Ollie really goes above and beyond what’s expected of an apprentice. Ollie is currently working as an Engineering apprentice on a major resignalling project which value is in excess of 150 million in value. He is responsible for Project Engineering management supporting me as the CEM. His day to day responsibilities include and not limited to Management of Engineering trackers and actions, chair and coordinate meetings, ensure the Engineering Management plan is adopted and adhered to as set out by me as the CEM, and to work with key stakeholders whereby interdisciplinary coordination is carried out. I have worked with Ollie since he was onboarded as an apprentice and have acted as his mentor for a period of 3 years and I have seen him grow in experience, underpinning knowledge, which I have also seen his confidence build in Engineering Management. I would highly recommend Ollie in any Engineering job. This nomination is for the hard work he puts in and he should be recognised for the dedication he has given to learning and his future career in the railway industry. " said Christopher Ritchie.
"I've worked with Ollie for 2 years on the C3R project engineering team. From my experience, the Apprentices and Graduates of Alstom are of consistently high calibre. Ollie himself is one of the best apprentices I've had the pleasure of working with during my career. Ollie reliably performs at a level higher than his official role/title. His abilities range from hard skills such as engineering/technical decision making, to the softer skills such as managing client/stakeholder relationships. His significant on-going contribution to a project sized at >£150 Million and the experiences gained from that exposure has led to Ollie being a well rounded and competent engineer, with a strong foundation in engineering management. Looking to the future, Ollie will be of considerable value to any business, institution and projects that are lucky enough to have him. " said Matt Dalton.
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Rekha Sarwara
Company Name
Network Rail
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Rekha joined the NR Anglia Ops graduate scheme 2 years ago and has shown incredible commitment to getting to grips with frontline operations. Following completion of signalling school in the summer of 2024, Rekha commenced a long-term placement in our Control team at Romford. This has greatly supported her development of the necessary knowledge and skills with regards to how our Control operates alongside TOC colleagues, whilst also learning the Info Coordinator desk and covering shifts when we are short-staffed.
Rekha has successfully delivered some key projects for Control to a very high standard; she has led the rollout of a new Anglia Integrated Control Centre Stakeholder Communications strategy, revolutionising how we manage our comms processes during major incidents and keeping our customers informed with real-time updates.
She has also worked hard on developing and managing revised Network Delivery Performance Metrics to improve our quality and use of data, managing the team's live Risks and Issues Active Register, and also leading the transformation of a redundant space in the ROC to convert it into a hybrid working space for meetings and team events now known across the route as 'Project Space', with an associated monetisation strategy to support in renting the area out for income generation.
Rekha has led the creation of a new Network Delivery Sharepoint site to support efficiency and knowledge sharing across the team, been in the lead for new Information Coordinator recruitment and training, supported with the Route Trespass Performance Improvement Planning process, and conducted industry research to support the route's Keeping Trains Safely Moving (KTSM) strategy, a key priority at both a route and national level.
Rekha has also spent time building the relationship between Romford Control and Liverpool Street our flagship managed station, including rollout of a new Station Ambassador training programme, developing associated prompt cards and Mission 360 scenarios, and also deployment of the HALO tool to improve comms between both teams.
Rekha's impact on our team in Control has been immeasurable, from driving tangible improvements in our data management and insight strategy, to generating efficiencies for the route through the introduction of the new events space, her can do and positive attitude with a keen willingness to learn has gained her well deserved recognition from multiple senior stakeholders both internally and amongst operator colleagues.
Rekha has recently moved into a permanent role as a Train Running Controller, an opportunity she will no doubt flourish in and consolidate her signalling rules knowledge alongside all her continuous improvement activity across Control over the past year. Within 2 short years Rekha has proven herself to be a real asset to the Anglia Operations team.
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Schea Davis
Company Name
Mitie
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Schea Davis is the ideal candidate. Having successfully completed her apprenticeship this week, Schea has already demonstrated remarkable impact in her early rail career. Her journey has been defined by dedication, resilience, and a clear commitment to both professional growth and delivering excellence at station level.
Throughout her apprenticeship, Schea approached every challenge with maturity and determination. Even when under pressure, she remained focused and composed, ensuring that the quality of her work never faltered. She treated her apprenticeship not as a formality but as a serious opportunity to learn, develop, and contribute meaningfully to the rail industry.
Schea’s contribution extends beyond personal achievement. At the station, she has consistently supported staff, offering guidance and encouragement, and demonstrating strong leadership potential. She has played a pivotal role in maintaining high performance standards while balancing the needs of staff, passengers, and contractors. Her ability to build constructive relationships with contractors has been particularly impressive—fostering collaboration that strengthens service delivery and improves the overall station environment.
What sets Schea apart is her holistic approach to her role. She understands that apprenticeship is not only about learning technical skills but also about developing the interpersonal qualities required to succeed in the rail industry. Her professionalism, empathy, and willingness to engage with all stakeholders have already made her a respected figure within her team.
Schea’s achievements and her mindset embody everything the Apprentice of the Year Award represents. She has proven that with dedication, hard work, and a genuine commitment to people, an apprentice can make a significant and lasting impact from the very start of their career.
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Sienna Lakin
Company Name
Transport for London
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Sienna has just completed her first year on the TfL Projects and Programmes graduate scheme. During her current six-month placement in TfL's Operational Readiness directorate, Sienna has demonstrated her exceptional ability and flexibility by stepping up to fill a vacant Project Planning Manager role. Sienna has worked at a level far beyond what would normally be expected of a graduate, leading development of a complex maintenance staff training programme for the £2.9 billion Piccadilly Line Upgrade. She has built strong relationships with stakeholders to rapidly gain a thorough understanding of the complex requirements of training delivery. Sienna has worked independently and with confidence to solve complex problems, developing not only the solutions but the process and tools needed to achieve those solutions. She has become the subject matter expert in planning fleet maintenance training, trusted by senior management and project leadership. Sienna has shown commitment and determination in persevering with building multiple iterations of the training programme as she has brought more information to light during its development. On leaving this placement, her role has had to be filled by an experienced project manager to match Sienna's capability. She has made a substantial contribution to enabling the entry to customer service of the new Piccadilly line train fleet which is deserving of wider recognition.
During her first placement from September 2024-February 2025, Sienna worked with Major Projects Investment Planning. She played a leading role in building support from stakeholders and user groups for level boarding for the Elizabeth line platforms at the new Old Oak Common station, establishing the case for accessible transport infrastructure.
Sienna is dedicated to improving the experience of current and future graduates and apprentices at Transport for London. She has become Vice-Chair of the Schemes Mental Health, a colleague network group supporting graduates and apprentices at TfL. In this role she has worked to promote the importance of wellbeing at the workplace with lunch and learn sessions, workshops, wellbeing walks around London, and coffee roulettes. Sienna has initiated collaboration with other TfL colleague network groups to engage and connect graduates, apprentices and interns with other areas of the business for their learning and development. She has also participated in working groups leading development of the graduate and apprentice scheme offering for future cohorts, and in initiatives to recruit new talent into the graduate and apprentice schemes.
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Will Bell
Company Name
BTTC
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Will's impact on the Belfast Transport Hub rail scheme exemplifies the transformative potential of graduate talent in our industry. When assigned his first major responsibility, developing the Entry into Service (EIS) schedule for the entire rail scheme, Will demonstrated remarkable composure and strategic thinking. Rather than being overwhelmed by the complexity of this critical deliverable, he approached the challenge with methodical precision, taking time to fully understand requirements before taking action.
Will has a natural ability to deal with stakeholders. He proactively reached out to diverse project partners, fostering collaborative relationships that had previously been challenging to establish. His leadership in stakeholder meetings was particularly impressive, as he quickly mastered the art of balancing competing needs and expectations while maintaining project momentum. Additionally, Will is never afraid to seek guidance or ask questions – a quality that builds trust.
The project manager's confidence in delegating full EIS schedule responsibility to Will speaks volumes about his rapid professional development. This trust was vindicated when the project achieved on-time Entry into Service - a testament to William's meticulous planning and execution.
Beyond his project work, Will has demonstrated exceptional initiative. Internally for BTTC, he developed an electronic equipment recycling process, aligning operational excellence with environmental responsibility. His systematic approach to this challenge was exemplary: conducting thorough research, evaluating multiple providers for compliance and environmental standards, and establishing robust collection and disposal protocols. The successful coordination of laptop recycling across Manchester and London offices showed his ability to scale solutions effectively while maintaining regulatory compliance and security standards.
His commitment to knowledge sharing through the CSR Steering Group demonstrates true leadership potential. By documenting processes and encouraging wider adoption of sustainable practices, he has created lasting value beyond individual projects. This collaborative approach to innovation reflects the industry leadership qualities we need in the next generation of rail professionals.
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William Talbot
Company Name
AECOM
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William has delivered exceptional performance over the past year, establishing himself as a standout graduate engineer through his leadership, technical ability, and collaborative approach on complex rail infrastructure projects. His most significant impact has been on the Old Oak Common (OOC) programme, where he played a central role in delivering multiple design packages requiring extensive multidisciplinary coordination, problem-solving, and high-volume drawing production.
At the heart of his achievements is his pivotal role in the Old Oak Common (OOC) programme, one of the most challenging rail environments in the UK. William spearheaded multiple complex packages involving Track, OLE, Signalling, Civils, and CAD disciplines. His unique ability to engage stakeholders, navigate challenges, and develop safe, buildable solutions ensured that critical programme milestones were met while elevating long-term social value.
A standout example of his leadership was the Cable Management System (CMS) Form A package, a large-scale assignment typically reserved for senior engineers. William not only took complete ownership but also seamlessly coordinated CAD teams, conducted capacity checks, and integrated cross-disciplinary inputs. His confident presentations to both technical and non-technical audiences, coupled with the introduction of digital tools like BRCM, streamlined workflows, reinforced design assurance, and embedded robust health and safety standard, demonstrating innovation far beyond his years.
On the SN416 Signal Cantilever package, he addressed complex gauging and sighting challenges with advanced solutions that accelerated delivery and reduced programme risks. Similarly, on the Walkways Package, his strategic thinking and problem-solving skills emerged as he produced bespoke reports and sketches that engaged stakeholders early, ensuring that safety, operational efficiency, and user experience were integral to the final design.
From his initial involvement in the Backline Accelerated Works package, William showcased adaptability and proactive problem-solving by delivering bespoke design elements like visibility screens and signal foundations in a fast-paced, high-pressure setting. His foresight in identifying potential issues and his drive to implement effective solutions have cemented his reputation as a trusted leader.
Beyond his outstanding work on the OOC programme, William contributed significantly to the Poplar Electrification Project by developing innovative foundation solutions that seamlessly balanced technical excellence with constructability and evolving client needs.
Across all his work, William has consistently proven himself to be a great team player with excellent integration and coordination skills. He communicates with clarity, builds strong relationships with stakeholders, and thrives in multidisciplinary environments. His ability to step into complex roles, deliver innovative solutions, and add tangible value makes him an outstanding candidate for Rail Graduate of the Year.
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Yasha Siddiqui
Company Name
Alstom
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Yasha has had a significant and lasting impact on the UK rail-sector, particularly through her leadership as Chair of the Alstom graduate scheme. She has played a key-role in shaping an inclusive and engaging environment for graduates by organising regular bi-weekly events and social activities, fostering a strong community spirit. This environment has helped graduates thrive both professionally and personally, bolstering Alstom’s reputation as an open and diverse employer.
One of Yasha’s major achievements is her creation of a comprehensive graduate handbook to help new starters integrate seamlessly into Alstom. She proactively gathered feedback from her peers to ensure the handbook genuinely addressed their concerns, leading to a notable enhancement of the onboarding process for future graduates. This initiative illustrates her dedication to continuous improvement and the welfare of newcomers.
Yasha is also a passionate advocate for gender balance, equality, diversity, and inclusion within engineering. She actively engages in STEM outreach, participating in mock interviews at Derby schools and sharing her journey as an Asian-Muslim engineer to inspire young women to consider engineering careers. Her efforts focus on increasing diversity within the industry and providing visible role models for underrepresented groups.
Her advocacy extends further through her leadership of the InspirHer initiative, which was launched on International Women’s Day. This programme allowed local students to explore engineering careers at Alstom’s UK sites, with graduate mentors present to offer guidance. Yasha’s organisational skills and commitment to inclusion were crucial to the success of this event.
Yasha has collaborated with Alstom’s central Talent Acquisition team to deliver an innovative onboarding event in the Alstom Metaverse. By sharing her own experiences as a new starter, she introduced creative onboarding activities that improved the experience for employees globally. She places strong emphasis on improving manager feedback and gender diversity within graduate recruitment, demonstrating her proactive approach towards building a balanced and supportive workplace.
Her technical and leadership skills are also evident in her stewardship of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers Railway Challenge team. Under her guidance, the team secured second place last year and is now aiming for the top-spot. Yasha’s hands-on involvement in meetings, reviews, and event planning underscores her commitment to excellence and teamwork.
Within Derby’s Development-to-Cost team, Yasha has led improvements by delivering in-person training sessions to raise awareness of team methodology, thereby enhancing cross-functional collaboration and achieving cost improvements for local projects and tenders. This has strengthened her reputation within both the local and global Development-to-Cost community.
Yasha’s strong personal values are reflected in her participation in Voices of Women, Disability, and Cultural Diversity groups. She shares best practices, supports colleagues, and leads training sessions that benefit her team worldwide.
As an ambassador for Alstom at careers fairs, Yasha challenges stereotypes in engineering and highlights the significance of diversity and everyday skills, inspiring future engineers. She played a key role in The Greatest Gathering, showcasing the rail sector as an inclusive career path. Her involvement in numerous inclusion-and-wellbeing initiatives further demonstrates her dedication to fostering a diverse and supportive workplace.
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15
HEALTH & WELLBEING TEAM OR PERSON AWARD
This award recognises individuals or teams who have made a significant impact on the health and wellbeing of rail industry staff. Whether through mental health initiatives, workplace wellness programs, or proactive safety measures, nominees will have demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting their colleagues. Judges will be looking for those who champion a positive work culture and make a lasting difference in workforce wellbeing.
Example job titles in this category:
Health & Wellbeing Promotions Manager, Health and Wellbeing Partner, Mental health advocate, Incident Care Team Voluntary, Occupational Health technician...
You can see all the past winners here.
Aimee Smith
Company Name
Alstom
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Co-Lead of the Alstom RSC Health & Wellbeing Team, Aimee Smith has been a driving force behind a transformative wellbeing culture at Alstom. Her leadership is marked by compassion, creativity, and a relentless commitment to improving the lives of her colleagues.
Aimee’s work spans all four pillars of wellbeing—physical, mental, social, and financial—and is deeply embedded in the daily rhythm of the site. She has spearheaded initiatives that support individual health and foster a sense of community and belonging.
Key Achievements
• Wellbeing Champion Network: Aimee has developed and supported the Wellbeing & Mental Health Community across Derby and at neighbouring sites, including monthly networking sessions and sharing of best practices.
• Established DIWC (Derby Industrial Wellbeing Committee) - a Wellbeing committee with the objectives to:-
Promote and improve awareness of Men's Health (both physical and mental)
Promote Pride in the working environment and welfare facilities
Recognition of hard work and dedication
Culture of feeling valued ingrained into the organization
These two networks have established “Brew with Bob” a Talk Club initiative, site wide quizzes, Walk and Talk events, ice-cream van visits, hand reflexology, Zen Den Mindfulness Sessions and many more initiatives aligned to coincide with national awareness campaigns like Stress Awareness Month and Heart Month, reinforcing their relevance and impact.
• “More to Life” Campaign: Aimee led the rollout of this year-long initiative showcasing personal hobbies and interests of staff, promoting identity and balance beyond the workplace. From photography to sewing, the campaign celebrates the richness of life outside work and encourages colleagues to connect through shared passions
• Work & Wellbeing Suite: Aimee is the driving force behind the creation of a dedicated Work & Wellbeing Suite, comprising an expectant mother & breastfeeding room, resting room, quiet work zones, and areas for yoga, stretching and other physical activity.
• Greatest Gathering Wellbeing Area: Aimee helped coordinate the wellbeing zone at Alstom’s flagship community event, bringing together partners like Tough to Talk, Livewell, and Revive to offer support and resources to staff and families.
Aimee understand the importance and value in collaborating and partnering with organisations outside of Alstom:
• Derby City Council’s Livewell service (Blood pressure and Carbon Monoxide testing)
• Baton of Hope Tour: Hosting the 2025 Derby Litchurch Lane Site event including a remembrance event for colleagues affected by suicide.
• Derby Work Health Hub - regular networking events bringing the wider Derby Community together.
• Project sponsor for Bridge the Gap - a local CIC offering emotional support for young children, used by several colleagues and their families, helping to improve colleague's families lives.
Aimee’s impact is both strategic and personal. She designs programmes with clear objectives and measurable outcomes, yet never loses sight of the human element. Her warmth, approachability, and tireless energy make her a trusted figure on site—someone colleagues turn to not just for support, but for inspiration.
She embodies the spirit of the RailStaff Awards: going above and beyond to make the railway a better, safer,
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Andrew Goodier
Company Name
Amey
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Significant impact on health and wellbeing
When Andrew first began delivering the “Monthly Dose of Wellbeing” briefings, no one could imagine how his proactive initiative would become a cornerstone of the Core Valley Lines (CVL) team’s wellbeing strategy. Every month, Andrew offers a safe and supportive space for colleagues to reflect, recharge, and engage in open conversations around mental health and personal wellbeing.
Andrew’s dedication doesn’t stop there. He thoughtfully spends time to gather and distribute information from a wide range of trusted sources, covering topics from menopause to testicular cancer, and regularly promotes webinars and talks from diverse organisations. Andrew has one pivotal goal in mind: to make sure his colleagues are safe and well, and have timely, inclusive, practical support at their fingertips.
Strong commitment to supporting colleagues
Adnrew’s dedication and commitment have curated a culture of care, where stigma around mental health is reduced. His sessions consistently receive positive feedback, with colleagues reporting increased morale, reduced stress, and a stronger sense of community. His approachable and empathetic style has fostered a space for open dialogue and has helped ease anxiety around mental health. Andrew is known for being a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, and a comforting presence —always available without judgment. His visibility and vocal advocacy for wellbeing have made him a go-to person for help and support, ensuring colleagues know where to turn in times of need.
Champions positive work culture
Andrew exemplifies what it means to be a wellbeing champion. His initiatives are thoughtful, inclusive, deeply impactful, and have helped shape a healthier and more connected work environment. Andrew has created a space for reflection and support. He is there for all and is a trusted advocate.
Andrew’s influence reaches beyond the rail sector, having also supported the Severn Bridge highways contract with tailored wellbeing briefings, this cross-sector contribution reflects his dedication to embedding wellbeing practices across diverse teams and disciplines. He has successfully integrated wellbeing into the rhythm of project delivery, ensuring it remains a priority even in high-pressure environments. This award is, therefore, a fitting recognition of the difference he continues to make.
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BeWell Champions
Company Name
Hitachi Rail
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In January 2023 we launched the BeWell framework, brining wellbeing under one banner and identity. To support the framework, this was underpinned by five pillars of wellbeing:
- Mentally well
- Physical well
- Financially well
- Valued and included
- Able to learn and grow
We recognised that whilst having a UK strategy is beneficial, this needs to be brought to life at a local level and be translated into meaningful initiatives.
To support the framework we also launched our champion BeWell network. The BeWell Champions are a 200 plus strong network across the UK dedicated to embedding the national wellbeing strategy at a local level. The team are made up of:
- BeWell Leads, play a vital role in delivering the UK mental wellbeing strategy at a grassroots level, translating national initiatives into meaningful, local action. They act as the communicators and co-ordinator’s and drive campaign design and delivery
- Mental Health First Aiders, offer frontline support and also get involved in local campaign delivery
- Manbassadors, are all trained in the five preventable killers of men. The team co-ordinates male friendly support, campaigns and initiatives. One example of this is the group created a slide deck of information which the Manbassadors briefed to their colleagues covering heart health, suicide prevention and physical activity. They are now in the process of planning Movember with a national speaker.
- Menopause Champions, who are all trained to support colleagues who may be experiencing menopause or supporting someone who is. Initiatives to date are, a quarterly menopause workshop, eLearning and a menopause guide which is soon to launch, a procedure and library of resources on the intrant. As a team we are also working towards menopause friendly accreditation with Henpicked. We have a 50/50 split of mane and female.
Their approach combines national messaging with local creativity. For example, during Time2Talk Day, the team coordinated UK-wide webinars and communications while arranging depot-based “tea and talk” sessions and inclusive activities to encourage open conversation, ensuring support was visible, approachable, and accessible.
A key challenge has been engaging employees without regular digital access. The team tackled this by visiting sites in person, hosting pop-ups, and speaking directly with staff to raise awareness of support resources. This outreach has helped grow the network and ensured all employees know where to turn when they need help.
Beyond delivering national campaigns, the team proactively identifies and addresses wellbeing gaps. Initiatives include creating a quiet room at the Doncaster depot, introducing stoma-friendly toilets at several sites, and launching an annual charity golf day. Local sites have also hosted charity partners such as Andy’s Man Club, Suicide Prevention UK and MIND to lead mental health discussions.
The programme is already delivering tangible results - engagement scores for the statement “my company cares about my wellbeing” have risen by 4.6% in the past year -demonstrating that mental wellbeing is becoming more visible, understood, and embedded across the business.
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Chris Trotter
Company Name
LNER
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Chris has an unwavering commitment to promoting mental well-being, both within and beyond the workplace, makes him an exceptional candidate for this recognition.
In addition to his responsibilities ensuring the safety and punctuality of passengers across our rail network, Chris has taken it upon himself to become a powerful voice for mental health awareness. Through his personal TikTok platform, he consistently shares content that supports the mission of CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably), focusing on suicide prevention, emotional resilience, and the importance of seeking help.
What sets Chris apart is his authentic and proactive approach. He uses his platform to openly discuss mental health challenges, share personal insights, and encourage others to speak up. He also promotes running and regular exercise as vital tools for managing stress and improving mental well-being—often documenting his own fitness journey to inspire others to take that first step. His enthusiasm for his train driver role and suicide prevention is just fantastic, also his knowledge of the entire operation on the ECML means he has created many followers to his regular updates.
His efforts are entirely self-driven, and the impact is tangible. Colleagues, commuters, and online followers alike have expressed how his messages have helped them feel seen, supported, and less alone.
Chris exemplifies what it means to be a mental health champion. His dedication, empathy, and courage deserve to be celebrated.
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Colleen Johnston
Company Name
Arriva Rail London
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Colleen Johnston has been involved in a number of events over the last year being the Health safety & Wellbeing specialist at Arriva Rail London. Over the last year Colleen has changed the way we look at our own personal health and wellbeing by organising Heart Health, Diabetes & Cholesterol sessions, Blood pressure readings and Body composition test, Nutrition and health eating advice at stations and across the network. Colleen has ensured that as many people as possible have been able to part take in these events and has also gone to the length of attending locations at night to make sure the night staff don’t miss out on these events.
Colleen has also so far this year to date has hosted Health and Wellbeing Road shows at two depots on the next work being at New Cross Gate and Chingford with another location to come later this year. The effect Colleen has had on everyone has been a positive impact to a point staff ask when the next one will be taking place so they can compare results to see what improvements they have made over time. These events have encourage staff become more active and to look at more health choices and what the benefits would be. All road shows have also had mini packs made for those who attend that have more information around health eating habits. Colleen has also arrange for staff to be able to have access to test at home kits such as PSA Test and prostate cancer test kit.
Colleen also set up and chairs a Health and Wellbeing group at Arriva Rail London that consist of staff from across the company including front line staff to help find ways to help staff with there mental health and wellbeing. One of the success stories out of this is the wellbeing walks. encouraging front line staff to step away from the office/mess rooms during there break and enjoying some fresh air during the break. On top of this she has also encourage head office staff to attend the wellbeing walks that take place and are open to all staff to attend. These walks have started from Arriva Rail London Head Office and have lasted for 30/40mins. With the key message to staff to step away from PC/Phones/Tablets for a little bit and enjoy the sites of London and the fresh air.
Away from focusing on staff Colleen has also made impacts on the public attending and hosting events at stations such as Brew Monday Outreach Campaign where she arranged Samaritans to attend on site to join us and being able to have a chat with the public with a nice hot cuppa. With the Samaritans Colleen also arranged a one to one Samaritans session on the Weaver Line for staff to attend and to be able to speak.
Across the network we have also seen a number of pop up sessions take part with people from Samaritans, EAP (employee assist program) and the RBF
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Geoff Steere, Phil O'Hara, Matt Toms, Ash Elford, James Moore, Chris Henley
Company Name
South Western Railway
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At the heart of Guildford's bustling railway network, a unique team of individuals is making a profound difference. These aren't just mental health professionals; they are a dedicated group of railway staff—drivers, guards, and even a railway chaplain—who, alongside a furry, four-legged friend named Sid, volunteer as Mental Health First Aiders. While their days are spent ensuring the safe and smooth operation of trains, their commitment extends far beyond the tracks, into the very lives of people who are struggling.
This team understands that mental health support doesn't always need to come from a formal setting. It can be found in the familiar faces you see every day. They are trained to spot the signs of distress, offer a compassionate ear, and guide people toward the help they need. Their unique position allows them to connect with individuals from all walks of life, often at times when they are most vulnerable. They don't just respond to crises; they actively work to prevent them.
Their efforts are not confined to their workplace. Outside of their regular duties, this group works tirelessly to support the wider community. They hold regular drop-in days, creating safe and welcoming spaces where people can talk without judgment. These sessions are a lifeline for many, providing a low-pressure environment to share their concerns and connect with others who might be going through similar struggles. It's a simple yet powerful way to break down the barriers that often prevent people from seeking help.
The team also actively partners with well-known mental health organisations, extending their reach and impact. They work closely with Andy's Man Club, an initiative that provides peer-to-peer support for men. By collaborating with this group, they help challenge the stigma surrounding male mental health and create a network of support where men can openly discuss their feelings. Similarly, their partnership with Her Healing Journey allows them to provide a safe space and resources specifically for women, ensuring that their support is inclusive and reaches everyone who needs it.
The presence of Sid the dog adds an extra layer of comfort and warmth to their work. Sid's calm and friendly nature has a remarkable ability to put people at ease, making it easier for them to open up and talk. The simple act of stroking a dog can reduce stress and anxiety, acting as a powerful icebreaker and a source of unconditional comfort.
This group of Mental Health First Aiders is a testament to the fact that you don't need a specific title or a grand gesture to make a significant impact. They are a shining example of how a team can leverage their position and passion to create a ripple effect of positive change. Through their everyday work and extraordinary commitment outside of it, they are building a more compassionate and supportive community, one conversation and one kind gesture at a time.
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Gurpreet Kaur
Company Name
Great Western Railway
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Gurpreet Kaur (Preeti) has made a profound and lasting impact on the health and wellbeing of colleagues across Reading Train Care depot and other areas of the business. Through a combination of mental health advocacy, proactive wellbeing measures, and a culture of care, Preeti has become a cornerstone of support for both staff and management.
Preeti now works within the possessions team but has left a great legacy and has taken a leading role in her new job to continue to focus on creating a great people culture whether that is wellbeing, inclusion and diversity.
Preeti has been instrumental in promoting mental health awareness and support. Preeti encourages colleagues to become Mental Health First Aiders (MHFA). Her efforts have normalised conversations around mental health and created a more open, supportive environment amongst colleagues. She also worked closely with Occupational Health to raise awareness of women’s health, including organising menopause training for managers—an important step in a male-dominated environment. And organised well being events at the depot.
Preeti consistently goes above and beyond to support colleagues, often working outside their core hours to assist with note-taking for night shift managers or to help deliver health surveillance checks. Their commitment ensures that all colleagues—regardless of shift pattern—feel seen, supported, and included. They’ve also developed a local colleague guide to help new starters settle in, reducing stress and improving onboarding experiences.
By digitising personnel and competency files, Preeti has streamlined access to critical information, reduced administrative stress, and improved data accuracy. This has freed up time for managers to focus on people, not paperwork. Their weekly reporting and trend analysis have also helped identify and address wellbeing-related issues early, such as sickness trends or training gaps.
Preeti has worked closely with HR, Recruitment, and Payroll to support inclusive hiring practices and improve the recruitment experience. Their involvement in the “Women in Engineering” initiative has helped attract more female applicants and foster a more diverse and welcoming workplace.
Preetis work often happens behind the scenes, but its impact is deeply felt. They have created a culture where wellbeing is prioritised, safety is embedded, and every colleague feels supported. Their dedication has not only improved the day-to-day experience of staff but has also enabled the leadership team to focus on strategic goals, knowing the wellbeing of the workforce is in safe hands.
Preeti believes that by having an inclusive environment for all this will result in better wellbeing, Preeti showcases this in he new role where in her own time she spent representing GWR at the South Aisin heritage month and is taking a leading role in arranging Diwali at Paddington in October.
Preeti is a true champion of workplace wellbeing and are highly deserving of this award.
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Kelly Burton
Company Name
Avanti West Coast
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I would like to nominate Kelly for this award in recognition of her unwavering dedication to the railway industry and her genuine commitment to supporting others throughout her career.
With over 20 years in the rail industry, Kelly has brought passion, empathy, and professionalism to every role she's held. From her early days as a Team Leader at Wolverhampton to her current position as a Health and Wellbeing Business Partner, she has consistently placed people at the heart of everything she does.
Her name is widely known across the business, not just as “the blonde with the Brummy accent”, but as the go-to person who is always there in someone’s hour of need.
Kelly’s support for her colleagues goes far beyond the expectations of her role. This is more than just a job to her, she truly cares about the wellbeing of our people. Whether it's offering a listening ear, connecting individuals to the right support, or going the extra mile to ensure someone feels valued and heard, Kelly consistently shows up with empathy, professionalism, and a deep sense of purpose.
She embodies the values we strive for and sets a shining example of what it means to care- not just about the work, but about the people doing it.
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Louise Williams
Company Name
Hitachi Rail
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Summary: Since joining Hitachi Rail over eight years ago, Louise Williams has been instrumental in fostering a culture of positive mental health and wellbeing. Known for her compassionate and proactive approach, Louise has led impactful initiatives, including health checks, stress awareness campaigns, and the recruitment of 95 Mental Health First Aiders across Hitachi Rail’s UK sites. She was key in rolling out the BeWell framework, focusing on wellbeing, inclusion, and growth, and established groups like Menopause Champions and Manbassadors. Her dedication and leadership have transformed workplace culture and set a benchmark for best practices in the industry.
Submission: Louise Williams has become a trusted figure at Hitachi Rail, known for her compassionate and practical support for colleagues facing mental health and wellbeing challenges. Her trustworthy, compassionate, and composed approach has made her invaluable within the organisation, providing both emotional support and practical guidance.
“Hitachi Rail is blessed to have someone [Louise] who manages to influence and engage a 3000-person organisation at all levels in a way that makes them feel safe, valued and supported.” - Chief Director UK & Ireland, Jim Brewin
Developing the BeWell Framework: Collaborating with colleagues and championed by HR leadership, Louise played a pivotal role in designing the BeWell framework, adopted in January 2023. The framework focuses on five pillars:
Financially well
Mentally well
Physically well
Valued and included
Able to learn and grow
In support of this framework, Louise established three key groups:
BeWell Leads: A 30+ member team sharing best practices and driving awareness campaigns.
Menopause Champions: 50% men, supporting menopausal employees.
Manbassadors: A network of 40 men’s health champions raising awareness of preventable health risks.
Measuring Success of Key Initiatives: Louise’s efforts have led to several impactful initiatives:
Menopause Champions:
Online sessions on heart health and menopause with a dietician, attended by 70+ women.
Menopause awareness booklet with key resources.
Regular coffee mornings and lunch-and-learn sessions.
Manbassadors:
Sessions on preventable male health risks, leading to early diagnosis of prostate cancer.
Events for National Men’s Health Week and a UK-wide Movember competition.
Planned a Three Peaks Challenge for 2024.
Louise’s efforts have extended beyond the UK, supporting the global rollout of BeWell, including its launch in Australia.
“I have been very impressed with the way that Louise has driven the BeWell activities throughout Hitachi Rail.” - Manufacturing and Quality Director, Simon Maske
Impactful Initiatives:
Health Checks: Launched in 2024, covering BMI, cholesterol, diabetes, and lifestyle reviews.
Stress Awareness Campaigns: Awareness sessions for 125+ managers, improving stress metrics in employee surveys. Partnered with Samaritans for the “I’m Here to Listen” campaign, providing training and support materials.
Recruitment of Mental Health First Aiders (MHFA): Increased MHFAs to 100 across UK depots, encouraging initiatives like ‘Lunchtime Walks’ and promoting ‘Samarathon.’
Conclusion: Thanks to Louise’s unwavering commitment and innovative approach, Hitachi Rail is building a workplace culture where mental health and wellbeing are prioritised, helping employees thrive both personally and professionally.
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Lucy Shephard and Lee Bladen
Company Name
Great Western Railway
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
We would like to nominate Lucy Shephard and Lee Bladen for their championing of an employee wellbeing programme and for spearheading the introduction of Trauma Risk Management (TRiM) into GWR.
The programme supports colleagues who have experienced traumatic events during their working day.
Sadly, railway suicides remain persistent. In 2023/24, there were 274 fatalities due to suicide or suspected suicide on the UK mainline rail network – representing around 4% of all suicides in England and Wales – and 1,937 interventions by rail employees, police or the public in suicide attempts.
Each incident has wide-ranging consequences, and, on average, a single railway suicide causes around 2,200 minutes of train delays, with the annual financial impact on the industry estimated at more than £50million. Railway staff directly involved or impacted by these incidents often require significant time off work – at an average of 29 days – with many experiencing post-traumatic stress.
TRiM provides an evidence-based workplace trauma management process designed to help individuals and organisations effectively manage the psychological impact of these events. It is not therapy or counselling, but rather a structured risk assessment and management approach that:
• Identifies individuals who may be at risk of developing trauma-related mental health difficulties
• Provides early intervention and appropriate signposting to professional support services when needed
• Helps normalise reactions to traumatic events and reduces stigma around seeking help
• Supports return-to-work processes and ongoing wellbeing monitoring
Lucy and Lee’s passion for providing this wellbeing service for GWR colleagues has taken TRiM from a promising idea, through to a pilot scheme and training 20 volunteer colleagues to be TRiM practitioners, prior to full deployment in a live environment. It is now being embedded into standard safety and wellbeing operating procedures.
To date, around 30 colleagues have been supported or offered support during the pilot and this number is rising – from train drivers and guards to station staff and onboard hosts – who have been able to open up in a confidential, safe space with trained TRiM practitioners. Where appropriate, individuals have been sensitively signposted to professional services, ensuring they receive the right care at the right time.
Colleague feedback has been universally appreciative, with many reporting that the programme has helped them feel understood, supported and able to return to work with greater confidence.
Lucy and Lee have already delivered lasting impact within GWR, and there are clear plans to expand the programme, recruit more practitioners and ultimately scale TRiM across the wider rail industry – offering meaningful wellbeing support in response to one of the most challenging issues the sector faces.
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Mark McSweeney
Company Name
Southern
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Mark is a driving instructor for Southern and has been nominated for this award for his significant contributions to supporting our drivers. Mark has specifically been chosen for the importance he places on understanding and considering each person's mental health. He takes the time to understand each driver and their individual circumstances to help provide the best support for them. Mark uses his careful, thoughtful and understanding approach both when completing his substantive role of supporting trainee drivers learning to drive and when supporting drivers through difficult situations post incident. Whilst working with the other drivers, Mark frequently refers to his own personal experiences of situations he has faced. This not only allows the drivers to relate to him, but for Mark to demonstrate a personal understanding of the sensitive situations the drivers face and directly contributes to an open and honest culture of supporting and learning.
Not content with his current level of knowledge, Mark consistently pushes himself to improve the support he offers our drivers by completing courses and learning on mental health in his own time. He is also currently enrolling on further study at degree level for this. Mark's empathetic and understanding approach have not only allowed him to become a highly successful driving instructor, but also one who is reliable and trustworthy when working with significantly sensitive situations.
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Sean Rainey
Company Name
South Western Railway
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I am honoured to nominate Sean Rainey, a dedicated store assistant at Fratton Depot, for the Rail Staff Awards - Health & Wellbeing Person. Sean is an exceptional individual whose positive impact resonates throughout SWR and beyond.
Nine years ago, Sean faced a challenging period in his life when he suffered mental issues. Demonstrating remarkable resilience and strength, he has since recovered and transformed his personal experience into a source of inspiration and support for others. Sean's journey has fuelled his passion for raising awareness about male mental health, particularly through his involvement with the "Men Will Talk" charity.
As a Mental Health First Aider (MHFA) for SWR, Sean plays a crucial role in promoting mental well-being within our workplace. His proactive approach ensures that SWR colleagues have access to the support they need, fostering a healthier and more supportive work environment. Sean's presence as an MHFA not only benefits individual employees but also contributes to the overall success and well-being of our organisation.
This year, Sean has gone above and beyond by organising and participating in numerous challenges to support "Men Will Talk" and Cancer Research. His efforts have raised significant awareness and funds for these important causes, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to making a difference. Additionally, Sean has been actively involved in several internal SWR well-being campaigns, further highlighting his dedication to the health and happiness of his colleagues.
As an MHFA, Sean also provides crucial support to colleagues experiencing mental health difficulties. He is trained to recognise early signs of mental health issues and offer appropriate assistance, ensuring that employees feel safe and supported.
Fundraising and Awareness Campaigns: Sean organises and participates in various challenges to raise funds and awareness for important causes like "Men Will Talk" and Cancer Research. His dedication to these initiatives demonstrates his commitment to making a positive impact both within and outside the workplace.
His ability to relate to others' struggles makes him a trusted and compassionate figure within the workplace. Sean actively raises awareness about male mental health through his involvement with the "Men Will Talk" charity. By sharing his story and promoting open conversations, he helps break down the stigma surrounding mental health issues, encouraging others to seek help and support.
Sean's involvement in SWR's well-being campaigns highlights his proactive approach to fostering a healthy and supportive work environment. He actively contributes to initiatives that promote the well-being of his colleagues, ensuring that everyone feels valued and cared for.
Sean’s positive influence extends far beyond his professional responsibilities. He is a beacon of support and kindness, always ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. His genuine care for others and his ability to connect with people on a personal level make him an invaluable asset to our team.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to SWR, his colleagues, and his chosen charities, I wholeheartedly nominate SR for the Supportive for Rail Staff Awards - Health & Wellbeing Person.
Thank you for considering Sean for this well-deserved recognition.
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Sheree Whetren
Company Name
South Western Railway
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Sheree is an inspiring force for good across the railway, exemplifying dedication, compassion, and leadership in the fields of health, wellbeing, and community engagement. A passionate advocate for safety and mental health, Sheree’s work has made a lasting difference to thousands of colleagues and members of the public.
Her leadership in the rollout of AEDs (automated external defibrillators) at SWR is a prime example of her proactive spirit. Recognising that many staff felt anxious about responding in emergencies, she completed formal training and created an internal programme to empower colleagues — delivering AED and CPR education to over 1,500 individuals, including station volunteer adopters and senior leaders. She sourced funding for equipment from different departments and built the initiative from scratch, ensuring access and confidence were at the heart of her approach.
Sheree extends her impact beyond the railway by collaborating with The Alex Wardle Foundation to raise awareness of Sudden Arrhyth Death Syndrome (SADS). At local events, she speaks to the public and demonstrates AED and CPR usage, ensuring that life-saving knowledge reaches people of all ages.
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Stephen Hannon
Company Name
Northern Rail
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I have nominated Stephen for all the hard work and commitment he has shown to Northern Rail and Allerton Train Care Centre over the years. Stephen is the local health and safety representative for the drivers at Allerton and he works hard on and off shift to ensure safety is at the forefront of the Allerton operational staff, during regular health and safety walks he protectively highlights potential safety issues that could affect the safe throughput of the depot movements. Stephen always goes above and beyond to ensure the welfare of his colleagues by raising valid close calls which prevent incidents and accidents at work and always ensures the close call is actioned correctly and supports safety investigations were possible, he is committed to ensuring the staffing levels required are covered in the case of any shortfalls often volunteering to cover shifts, including undesirable holiday season and Christmas period shifts, ensuring his colleagues get that valuable family time over his own personal requirements. Recently it was highlighted a substance could possibly be asbestos, Stephen acted professionally and ensured the area was cornered off correctly and proactively challenged staff to ensure the potential outbreak didn't become harmful to others on shift. Stephen took it upon himself to brief the other staff members coming on shift that night of the temporary area closures and temporary method of work in place. Stephen ensured all staff had the correct P.P.E for their shift and his actions showed how he has his colleagues and the business best interest at heart. Stephen constantly has a smile on his face and carries a pleasant demeaner, every year Stephen carries out charity work and is always supporting the local charities in the Liverpool area, recently he has been involved in a local children's charity donating toys for children at Christmas. I would like to say thank you to Stephen for all his hard work and committed to the rail industry and Northern Rail over the years.
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Trevor Boyd , Alan Daly , Alan Davies, Sian Hawkins, Simon Peacock- Team
Company Name
Network Rail
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
"I would like to nominate the Wales and Western Lead, Inclusion and Engagement Team, led by Trevor Boyd, for their outstanding commitment to health, wellbeing, and people development.
Trevor and his team have delivered the Great People Manager (GPM) programme and Mental Health First Aid, both of which have had an immense positive impact across the business. The feedback is consistent and powerful – colleagues describe the GPM programme as “life-changing”, with lasting improvements not just in management skills but in personal confidence, resilience, and wellbeing.
Trevor’s leadership is defined not only by the initiatives he drives but also by the care he shows to individuals. A moving example is the way Trevor and his team supported their colleague Alan Daly following the devastating loss of his wife. Their compassion and ongoing support went far beyond professional boundaries, ensuring Alan felt looked after, valued, and never alone.
Trevor embodies what it means to lead with empathy and integrity. The entire Team . Sian, Alan , Simon and Alan have built a culture of trust, inclusion, and wellbeing that continues to inspire and uplift colleagues. Their work has not only enhanced mental health awareness and skills across the organisation but has genuinely changed lives.
For these reasons, I believe Trevor Boyd and his team are truly deserving of recognition for their extraordinary contribution to health and wellbeing." said Helen Barnes.
"I would like to nominate Trevor Boyd and his team for their outstanding commitment to people development, health and wellbeing.
They have delivered the Great People Manager (GPM) programme, Mental Health First aid and Managers Supporting Mental Health courses across the Wales & Western region and these courses are frequently regarded as the best that Network Rail provides. Their impact is always positive due to the genuine care, empathy and passion that Trevor and his team display.
Trevor is regularly cited as someone who shows a lot of care for those he interacts with, this is particularly evident with those within in his team who always feel supported and cared for. An example of this is following the loss of Alan Daly's wife. His compassion and support went above and beyond any professional boundaries.
Trevor's team have built up a very strong reputation as one who are inclusive, caring and passionate. They naturally manage to inspire and upbuild colleagues while promoting health, wellbeing and people development.
Their contribution in this area has been outstanding" said Paul Champion.
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15
HR & RECRUITMENT TEAM OR PERSON AWARD
This award celebrates outstanding contributions by HR and recruitment professionals in the rail industry. Recognising those who attract, develop, and retain top talent, it honours innovative strategies in talent acquisition, employee development, diversity and inclusion, and workplace wellbeing. Judges will be looking for nominees who have implemented impactful initiatives that create a supportive, inclusive, and thriving work environment.
Example job titles in this category are:
Recruiter, Recruitment Consultant, HR Manager, HR Consultant, HR Assistant, Talent Acquisition, Personnel Manager, Employee Relations, Recruiting Manager, Staffing Resources, Employer Brand Manager, Sourcer, Resourcing, Human Resource...
You can see all the past winners here.
Andrew Pitt
Company Name
Arriva Rail Services
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
As communications coordinator for Arriva Rail Services, Andrew Pitt is responsible for colleague communications across Rail Services, Grand Central, ATC and ARTS. Naturally, this sort of role can be extremely challenging, requiring him to deliver clear and consistent messaging while adapting tone and branding to suit each organisation’s culture and often dealing with tricky situations and responding quickly to changing events.
Andrew does not just send out information, he also creates engaging campaigns from scratch. His work strengthens engagement, supports wellbeing and promotes skills development across all the businesses.
Most recently, Andrew led communications for Grand Central’s first National Inclusion Week, sharing stories, resources and reflections that really brought inclusion to life and encouraged colleagues to join the conversation.
His creativity and adaptability ensure communications do not simply inform but also inspire and spark genuine conversations. Andrew really deserves this award for his use of communications to build culture, encourage inclusion across Grand Central and help his colleagues thrive.
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Capability and Skills Development Team
Company Name
Network Rail
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Network Rail, working with the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) and The Talent Foundry (TTF), is driving social mobility and strengthening the industry’s talent pipeline by inspiring and equipping young people from underserved communities with skills, knowledge, and confidence to pursue careers in rail. For five years, this collaboration has engaged thousands of students through two high-impact programmes - Track to the Future (Year 12-13) and Lightbulb Moments (Year 7-8). These initiatives address misconceptions about the rail sector, provide hands-on experiences, and develop essential workplace skills, bridging the gap between education and employment.
In the past year, the programme has expanded substantially to the wider industry, to include the support of 11 rail organisations, 645 volunteer hours, and substantial financial investment, reaching 2,389 students. 93% of participants now better understand rail careers, and 87% have increased confidence in essential skills.
The rail industry faces a critical skills shortage, with an aging workforce and a lack of diversity. Only 10% of the workforce is under 30, and the sector remains predominantly male (84%) and white (87%). This initiative exemplifies cross-sector collaboration, fostering inclusion and making a tangible impact on young people’s futures and the rail industry’s sustainability.
The Track to the Future programme reached 275 young people and 2114 young people were reached through Lightbulb Moments.
The partnership has created significant societal impact by reducing social mobility barriers, bridging education-to-employment transitions, raising aspirations, and helping rail businesses identify local talent. Analysis through the Rail Social Value Framework estimates its total social value at £864,706.
This initiative aligns with ESG objectives, strengthens each company’s commitment to improving social mobility, and enhances employee engagement through hands-on volunteering. Staff who take part gain valuable insight into the challenges young people face when entering the industry, contributing to more inclusive and diverse workplaces.
For Network Rail, the programme is a unique, cross-industry collaboration that brings together 11 rail organisations, with more planning to participate in 2025, overcoming competitive barriers for a shared goal. Network Rail’s partners understand the importance of reflecting the communities they serve. Their support enables the rail sector to reach thousands more young people each year and grow its network of partner schools.
Teacher feedback: “Our school is situated in a poor demographic area, where a lot of students generally have low self-esteem and no confidence. They are often afraid to step out of their comfort zone. This programme has had an amazing impact, helping them gain team building and communication skills. Experiencing a workplace with a variety of jobs showed them the opportunities if they start to believe they can do it.”
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Dan Crossley
Company Name
GB Railfreight
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Dan Crossley has been a key member of GB Railfreight’s HR team for just over two years, but his impact has been immediate and far-reaching. Dan’s approach to recruitment is practical, people-focused, and always aimed at creating a supportive and inclusive workplace.
Dan has worked closely with regional teams to streamline recruitment processes, making them more efficient and accessible. He has improved communication at every stage, proactively sourced candidates, and created engaging, visible recruitment campaigns. These efforts have led to a significant increase in applications, with some roles attracting over 50 candidates—a clear sign of his ability to attract top talent and raise the company’s profile.
Understanding the pressures faced by operational teams, Dan has made it a priority to fill vacancies quickly and effectively, ensuring teams are fully staffed and ready to deliver. His work with the 2025 Seasonal Project Team is a great example of this, as he built strong relationships and responded quickly to changing needs.
Dan is also committed to diversity and inclusion. He ensures recruitment campaigns reach a wide audience and encourages applications from people of all backgrounds. By building trust and strong working relationships across the business, Dan has helped foster a culture where everyone feels valued and supported.
His calm, friendly manner and professionalism have made him a standout member of the HR team and the wider business. Dan is always willing to listen, offer support, and help others develop. His enthusiasm for learning and continuous improvement is clear in everything he does.
“His calm and friendly temperament together with his professionalism and enthusiasm to learn and develop has made him a standout employee not only in the HR department but in GBRf as a whole.” – Elizabeth Delafosse, HR Director
“Dan has been proactive in supporting myself and my team through the recruitment process, engaging every step of the way.” – Gareth Webb, Regional Manager North
“I know I can rely on Dan to assist my team, and his contribution through the entire process is fantastic.” – Andy Dickinson, National Specialist Operations
“I've been really impressed by him. Really positive attitude, proactive and an excellent communicator.” – Neil Jones, Regional Manager West
“He’s helped raise the standard of the recruitment process.” – Kieran Lawson, Regional Manager East
“He’s been proactive, engaging and delivers what’s asked both quickly and efficiently.” – Mark Rowley, Head of Traincrew
Dan’s work has not only improved recruitment outcomes but also strengthened relationships and set a new standard for excellence at GB Railfreight. His commitment to attracting, developing, and retaining talent, as well as his focus on diversity and wellbeing, make him a deserving nominee for the HR & Recruitment Team or Person Award.
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Deborah Birch - Head of Human Resources
Company Name
Hull Trains
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
The impact that a competent and compassionate HR professional can have on an organisation is profound. They can amplify many of the most positive aspects of a culture and maintain this progression during periods of significant growth. Managing a complex array of responsibilities, they ensure the business hires competent professionals while also maintaining awareness of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) practices to provide opportunities for all.
Understanding the challenges of the role, we would like to nominate Deborah Birch for the RailAwards HR & Recruitment Person Award. As the Head of Human Resources at Hull Trains, she is responsible for the incredible success the company has achieved in recent years. Having been with Hull Trains for a decade, few people better understand the “how” or “why” of our people and their success.
Our team consists of 134 individuals, each a key part of delivering Hull Trains’ services and tying us directly to the communities we serve across the Hull and Humber region. Let’s take a look at some of Debbie’s results:
Gender: A female:male ratio of 55:45 across the entire business and all roles.
Drivers: We challenge industry norms, with 29% of our train drivers being women. (Industry average is approximately 6.5%)
Ethnicity: The ethnic diversity of our team closely mirrors the regional demographic.
Sexuality: And we proudly celebrate the significant proportion of our workforce who identify as LGBTQ+.
Debbie has led a proactive and thoughtful approach to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) right from the beginning. She understands that the strength and adaptability of our team depend on different perspectives from across the spectrum of society. The result is a rail business with some of the industry’s leading representation figures.
It’s one thing to claim diversity “on paper” but the success of our collective efforts and culture can really only be evaluated by people in the team. We recently conducted a Colleague Engagement Survey to better understand how team members felt and identify areas we could improve. Here are some of the most important conclusions:
Engagement: 84% overall engagement across the company.
Culture: 88% agree our culture is inclusive to all people regardless of difference.
Identity: 84% feel they can be themselves at work.
Management: 91% say their line manager treats them fairly and with respect.
These survey results demonstrate the effectiveness of Debbie’s policies and culture-building efforts. While she acknowledges that there is still progress to be made, her efforts have helped to foster an environment where every individual feels seen, respected and empowered.
Debbie has worked hard to promote diversity, long-term career development, and upskilling for all of our colleagues. Time and again, she has given team members the platform (and support) to perform their roles at the highest level, regardless of race, religion, economic background, sexual orientation, age, or physical ability. We strongly believe that our people are what make Hull Trains special, and for 10 years Debbie has played an instrumental role in forming the very foundation of that team.
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Ema Stephen
Company Name
Greater Anglia
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
"Ema, has been an exceptional colleague, who worked in London Liverpool Street Station. I have had the pleasure of managing her, and have seen amazing growth in her career, and all well deserved. She has utilised her capabilities and existing knowledge to quickly grasp hold of a new role and has embedded herself in with great success. Her current managers value her contributions with high regard. She is becoming an asset to the HR department and proving invaluable to all colleagues and employees. " said Rajesh Krishnadas.
"Ema is an outstanding HR professional whose integrity and commitment set her apart. She is always available to provide support and guidance on HR matters, ensuring colleagues feel heard and valued.
Ema plays a vital role in HR investigations, consistently ensuring that policies and procedures are followed correctly. She approaches every situation with fairness and professionalism, helping to secure outcomes that are not only compliant but also just and balanced for all involved.
Her integrity is second to none. She is trusted across the organisation because she always seeks to do what is right, even in complex or challenging situations. Ema’s dedication to fairness means that colleagues know they can rely on her to approach every issue without bias, with compassion, and with the highest ethical standards" said Matt Gormer.
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GBRTT HR & Resourcing Team
Company Name
Network Rail / Great British Railways Transition Team
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Since 2021, the HR & Resourcing Team at the Great British Railway Transition Team (GBRTT) has recruited, onboarded, developed, and offboarded a unique transition team while pioneering industry-wide secondments that have benefited organisations across the sector.
Tasked with delivering the HR and recruitment activities for a truly unique and complex organisation which required cross-representation of the whole rail industry, the team knew that the mission required a unique and innovative approach to talent. They pioneered the use of cross-industry secondments, designing and embedding a process that seconded over a hundred individuals to GBRTT, creating opportunities for growth, collaboration and knowledge sharing across the sector, and ensuring GBRTT was truly representative of the entire industry (seconding from circa 25 different organisations). The team developed robust agreements and processes that made the industry secondment process smooth and one that protected the interests of both home and host organisations, ensuring mutual benefit and compliance.
The team also dovetailed the industry secondment process with a new programme that they had supported in developing (initially led by Network Rail’s talent team) - the Rail Industry Talent Exchange programme. This programme ensured that secondees were not only placed, but actively had development plans throughout their secondment, so they could bring new skills and experience back to their home organisation after the assignment. This approach to industry secondments and talent exchange programmes has since been adopted by many other organisations in rail, and the team’s willingness to share best practise and advise others has demonstrated their advocacy and commitment to cross-industry working and collaboration.
On top of this, the resourcing team built a dedicated jobs board for GBRTT, used collaboration and relationships to promote roles across the industry, filling hundreds of roles (including recruiting key roles for the Railway 200 programme). The HR team designed bespoke reporting, induction, and performance management processes tailored to the needs of a diverse, transitionary workforce, ensuring every individual – whether secondee, contractor, permanent - felt supported informed and valued.
As GBRTT evolved, the HR & Resourcing Team demonstrated remarkable resilience. Strategies had to change, often quickly, but the team always adapted, communicated transparently, and provided reassurance and guidance to all staff. This support was especially vital as the transition team wound down this year and the team helped individuals prepare for their next career step, maintaining a focus on wellbeing, development, and positive outcomes for everyone involved.
What makes this team truly deserving of recognition is that all of this was achieved on top of their core activities. Their leadership, innovation and collaboration have left a legacy, not only in delivering the HR & Resourcing activities needed to successfully deliver GBRTT and support hundreds of people in a truly unique organisation, but in the enduring relationships, processes and standards they have established in the wider rail sector, particularly around cross-industry talent mobility and secondments. As their GBRTT mission comes to a close, this is the perfect time to recognise what the team has managed to deliver with purpose, creativity and care.
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GWR Driver Training and Development
Company Name
Great Western Railway
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Our Driver Training Team has consistently demonstrated excellence through their innovation, flexibility, and unwavering support for both new and experienced drivers. In a constantly evolving industry, the team has not only adapted to change, they’ve led it.
They have introduced innovative training methods, including blended learning, simulation scenario's, and scenario-based assessments that ensure drivers are not only compliant but confident and capable. Their commitment to continuous improvement has enhanced safety standards and reduced incident rates across the board.
Flexibility is at the heart of their approach. Whether adapting schedules to meet operational demands or tailoring training to accommodate individual learning styles and needs, the team ensures every driver receives the guidance they need, when they need it. Their ability to pivot quickly in response to challenges, be it regulatory changes, staffing issues, or emergent technologies, has made them a pillar of reliability within our operation.
Perhaps most importantly, the team creates a culture of support. They go beyond training by mentoring, encouraging open communication, and building strong relationships with drivers. This not only boosts morale but has helped foster a strong safety-first culture that resonates across the business.
Their innovation, flexibility, and genuine care for people make them truly deserving of recognition. They don’t just train drivers, they empower them.
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Lindsay Gauntlett - People & Culture Manager
Company Name
Lumo
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Lindsay’s exceptional commitment to people, policy, and progress makes her the standout choice for this award. Over the past year, her dedication to enhancing Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) within Lumo has been inspirational. Her work has not only transformed our HR strategies but also embedded a culture of inclusivity that resonates across every level of the business.
Rail travel has long been a cornerstone of connectivity in the UK, not only linking people to places, but also to opportunities. As we strive to build a fairer, more inclusive society, we remember the central role that transport plays in breaking down barriers and improving social mobility. Lumo, as open access rail operators, represent a modern evolution of this essential service. The innovative model goes beyond offering additional rail services, it is a commitment to making travel more affordable, accessible, and sustainable. By doing so, they are not just filling gaps in the rail network, they are closing gaps in opportunity across the country.
One of Lindsay’s most notable achievements is securing Clear Assured Bronze accreditation for Lumo. This accreditation is not awarded lightly as it requires robust evidence and a demonstrable commitment to creating an inclusive workplace. Lindsay led this process from the ground up, benchmarking our performance from Foundation level, collecting and submitting comprehensive evidence, and ensuring our EDI and culture strategy was backed by data and insight. This was never a ‘tick-box’ exercise for her it was about honestly assessing where we stood, identifying opportunities for growth, and making meaningful progress.
What truly sets Lindsay apart is her belief in people-first policies and her drive to ensure every colleague feels seen, supported, and valued. Thanks to her efforts, our policies are not only up-to-date they are best-in-class when it comes to EDI. Every HR initiative Lindsay lead is underpinned by our organisational values, and her work has become a model of excellence within the sector.
The feedback we received during the Clear Assured accreditation process speaks volumes:
• Our YourVoice survey revealed exceptional emotional intelligence across the organisation. Colleagues reported feeling genuinely heard and valued. One initiative donating £5 to charity for every survey completed was described as a unique and powerful way to encourage open and honest feedback.
• Our benefits package was praised for its inclusivity, with recognition that this level of thoughtfulness is rarely seen across the industry.
• The way our values are embedded throughout policies, performance development reviews (PDRs), and colleague engagement strategies was specifically commended.
• Every policy we have now clearly reflects EDI principles, something that external assessors noted is rarely achieved.
Jen Clare, Service Delivery Director said "Lindsay has been a dedicated champion for our people, driving forward our HR and EDI policies and helping us achieve Clear Assured Bronze status. Her commitment to creating inclusive, forward-thinking practices truly deserves recognition."
Her vision is clear, her commitment is unwavering, and her impact is measurable. Lindsay has redefined what excellence in HR and recruitment looks like for our business and beyond
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Mary Machado
Company Name
Carlisle Support Services
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Mary joined our business in 2023, initially working within the Compliance team where she supported the vetting of all our SIA licence holders. Although she held a Level 7 CIPD qualification, she had not yet had the opportunity to apply it in a dedicated HR role. When a vacancy for a HR Advisor arose, Mary seized the opportunity and successfully transitioned into the HR team in November 2023. She now supports our Security South division, providing comprehensive HR guidance and support.
Since stepping into her HR Advisor role, Mary has demonstrated exceptional commitment to her personal and professional development. She proactively pursued a Level 2 qualification in mental health, enabling her to take on the role of Mental Health First Aider. Despite joining with limited HR experience, Mary has shown remarkable growth - taking ownership of her development by reading extensively, analysing job descriptions of aspirational roles, and consistently pushing herself beyond her comfort zone.
Mary is passionate about remaining visible and connected to the operational side of the business. She visits contracts, including spending time with the ARL contract management team in London, to deepen her understanding of frontline operations. Her HR support spans approximately 2,000 employees and line managers, with a strong focus on employee relations.
Beyond her core responsibilities, Mary has played a pivotal role in advancing our diversity and inclusion efforts. She was instrumental in developing our first EDI strategy, laying the foundation for a more inclusive and supportive workplace. Her leadership in EDI initiatives includes:
- Conducting interviews with women in leadership to inspire others in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
- Engaging with frontline employees to understand and share their personal experiences, such as publishing stories around Lunar New Year—including an educational piece from a Liverpool-based employee highlighting the importance of using the term "Lunar New Year" to reflect broader cultural representation.
- Promoting EDI awareness through online training for line managers and creating practical crib sheets on topics like inclusive language, inspired by real employee conversations.
- Collaborating with HR leaders from our client base to improve EDI data collection and foster a culture where individuals feel comfortable sharing their identities.
Mary continues to seek out innovative ways to support our diverse workforce, all while managing a demanding workload in a fast-paced environment. Her dedication goes far beyond ticking boxes - she brings genuine passion and purpose to everything she does.
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Merseyrail Culture Change Makers
Company Name
Merseyrail
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Merseyrail Culture Change Makers
We are proud to nominate the cross-functional Changemakers for their extraordinary commitment, creativity, and collaboration in shaping the future of our business. Over the past 18 months, colleagues from every corner of the business—including drivers, train managers, station assistants, retailers, on-board cleaners, and support staff—have come together with a shared purpose: to define who we are and what we stand for. This team worked tirelessly, often in their own time, to co-create a set of vision and values that are not only meaningful but truly reflective of our people and our purpose. From Concept to Culture their work didn’t stop at design.
They played a key role in:
Launching the new vision and values across the business. Embedding them into daily operations, decision-making, and customer interactions. Inspiring others to live these values through their own example. The success of this initiative has drawn admiration from other organisations, who are envious of the
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Network Rail Leadership and Personal Development Team
Company Name
Network Rail
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The Leadership & Personal Development team at Network Rail has transformed the way new starters are welcomed into the organisation through the Warm Welcome Induction, launched in September 2024. This programme is a bold reimagining of corporate onboarding designed not just to inform, but to inspire, engage, and invest in people from day one.
Delivered across two regional venues, the induction is built around the principle that learning should be active, inclusive, and memorable. Delegates move through themed rooms, each offering a unique experience that reflects the scale, complexity, and values of Network Rail.
Investing in People from Day One
Interactive Learning Journeys
Delegates explore Network Rail through hands-on activities, simulations, and live scenarios. This approach fosters deeper understanding and retention, while encouraging collaboration and critical thinking.
Safety Simulation Game
Delivered via tablet, this game empowers delegates to identify and respond to unsafe situations reinforcing safety culture and personal responsibility in a dynamic, learner-led format.
Train Performance Planning Exercise
Participants take on roles across the rail ecosystem, learning how to balance operational needs, safety, and efficiency. This simulation builds strategic thinking and teamwork.
Live Values Scenario with Actors
Delegates direct professional actors through real-world dilemmas, exploring Network Rail’s values in action. This immersive experience helps embed ethical decision-making and cultural alignment.
Augmented Reality Timeline
A visually rich, interactive timeline connects rail history with global events. Delegates engage with content in a way that’s both educational and emotionally resonant such as seeing George Stephenson’s Rocket emerge from the timeline.
Measurable Impact
Net Promoter Score of +58 for confirming delegates’ decision to join Network Rail.
Net Promoter Score of +55 for recommending the induction to other new starters.
Nearly 1,000 responses affirm the programme’s success in delivering a meaningful and memorable welcome.
Wider rail industry observers have praised the programme as industry-leading, with several organisations exploring adoption of its elements.
The Warm Welcome Induction is more than an onboarding programme it’s a strategic investment in people. It reflects Network Rail’s commitment to learning, development, and culture-building, ensuring every new starter feels valued, informed, and inspired from the moment they arrive.
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Peer Trainer Group
Company Name
Arriva Rail London Ltd
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This team was put together to deliver coaching and training to our front line staff. They have far exceeded what was expected of the team.
The team have worked across various areas to coach staff on the new line naming and new apps that were being rolled out to stations (Arrakis,Charm, etc.)
We have been able to identify areas of expertise within the team enabling us to develop the peer trainer role in various areas.
We receive SIS survey results which we are measured against. The peer trainers have gone out to stations to talk through the results and coach staff in any areas that they may be failing. As a progression of this we now have 7 SIS champions who visit stations three times a quarter to display the individual station results & coach staff on duty.
The team worked on a project to deliver bespoke disruption packs & posters to all stations containing all the information needed to assist onward travel at times of disruption. This was a massive project which entailed visiting each station & researching lots of information. These packs are now in regular use.
Some of the team have received presentation skill training to enable them to deliver training in a classroom setting. The roll out of our commitments program, body worn cameras, gateline, disability awareness & ramp training have all been successfully delivered to our frontline teams (stations & revenue teams). Feedback from staff attending these sessions praised the delivery and the overall consensus of staff is that they learn better from their peers (as opposed to an outside trainer) as the peer trainers have walked in their shoes and can give examples that are relevant to their roles.
Two of the team have attended MAYBO conflict avoidance training to receive a licence to roll this training out to our frontline staff.
All of these projects have ensured that we have a much more knowledgeable workforce with the training delivered in a more cost effective way.
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Rail Capability Development Team
Company Name
Telent Technology
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Telent’s Rail Capability Team has been at the forefront of shaping a skilled, future-ready workforce, demonstrating exceptional commitment to talent development across all career stages. Their approach goes far beyond training — it creates a supportive, inclusive, and forward-thinking environment where employees can grow, thrive, and contribute meaningfully to the rail industry.
Over recent years, the team has transformed Telent’s approach to early careers through enriched apprenticeship and graduate programmes. These structured schemes include tailored technical training, role-specific development plans, innovative mentorship models, and clear, supported pathways into long-term careers. Crucially, these are not one-size-fits-all initiatives — they are thoughtfully designed to ensure every individual receives the support they need to succeed.
Innovation is at the heart of the team’s strategy. By embedding forward-thinking practices into skills tracking, training, and community-building, they’ve created a dynamic culture of learning and continuous professional growth. Their proactive work has positively impacted apprentices, graduates, and experienced employees alike.
Key achievements include:
- Expanding Early Careers Support: Strengthening structured schemes and on-the-job development has directly improved competency levels. The introduction of new mentoring and training methods ensures early-career employees receive the best possible start.
- Building a Stronger Rail Community: The team responded to the social impact of remote working by fostering peer connection, shared learning, and collaboration. Through both digital tools and in-person initiatives — including development days and cohort-wide networking — they’ve re-established informal support networks essential for morale, inclusion, and confidence.
- Capability Mapping and Skills Tracking: Innovative approaches such as real-time skills assessments and individual role-specific plans give employees clear visibility of their development journey. These tools help align individual growth with business needs and industry evolution.
- Meaningful 1:1 Engagement: The team has revolutionised employee engagement through deep, transformational conversations. These focus on aspirations, challenges, and development goals — making the team a trusted, proactive support system across the business.
- Enhancing Professional Growth Opportunities: Creative internal training solutions, digital learning platforms, targeted communications, and townhalls ensure that learning is accessible, engaging, and tailored to diverse needs.
Through their capability mapping, cross-functional training, and close collaboration with business leads, the team is equipping the workforce with the skills needed for digital innovation, safety, and sustainability. This ensures Telent stays at the forefront of an evolving rail industry.
Their measurable impact includes high early careers retention, improved internal progression, increased morale, and a growing number of colleagues attributing their development and success to the support provided by the Rail Capability Team.
Telent’s Rail Capability Team exemplifies what it means to invest in people. Their innovative, compassionate, and strategic approach to workforce development has not only empowered individuals but transformed the way talent is nurtured and retained — creating a resilient, future-ready community within the rail sector.
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ScotRail's Recruitment Team
Company Name
ScotRail Trains Ltd
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ScotRail’s Recruitment Team may be small in number, but their impact has been exceptional. With just 10 dedicated professionals, the team has played a critical role in strengthening the workforce during a period of significant change and growth.
Since April 2024 alone, they have successfully recruited over 1,000 new colleagues from external talent pools—an extraordinary achievement for such a compact team. This figure excludes internal recruitment, further underscoring the scale of their contribution to ScotRail’s success.
Looking at the bigger picture, since the start of public ownership in April 2022, ScotRail has achieved a net gain of more than 900 employees. To reach this milestone, the Recruitment Team have onboarded over 1,800 external hires, ensuring ScotRail has the skills, talent, and capacity to continue delivering a safe, reliable, and customer-focused railway for Scotland.
Their efforts go far beyond filling vacancies. They have demonstrated resilience, teamwork, and innovation in a challenging labour market. By ensuring the right people are in the right roles, they have directly supported ScotRail’s mission to serve communities across the country and provide a railway that Scotland can be proud of.
The results speak for themselves: a small but highly committed team achieving extraordinary outcomes that underpin the success of the whole organisation. For their tireless efforts, remarkable achievements, and vital contribution to the future of Scotland’s railway, ScotRail’s Recruitment Team are truly deserving of recognition at the Rail Staff Awards.
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Young Rail Professionals Team
Company Name
Young Rail Professionals
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At a time when the rail industry faces critical skills shortages, Young Rail Professionals (YRP) has emerged as a powerful recruitment gateway for the sector. In the last 3 years, YRP has more than doubled its membership, reaching thousands of young people and positioning rail as a career of choice for the next generation. (At the time of writing, over 6k members and social media reach of over 25k).
Driving Membership Growth- Over the last three years, YRP has experienced unprecedented growth. Membership has doubled, not through costly campaigns but through authentic advocacy, grassroots engagement, and a reinvigorated presence across Wales, Scotland and Ireland. This is more than a number: it represents thousands of new professionals choosing rail as their home industry.
YRP has ensured recruitment is not confined to London or traditional hubs. The relaunch of the Wales and Western Committees created vibrant entry points into rail where opportunities had previously been fragmented. The relaunch of Scotland and the creation of an all-island Ireland Committee marked historic steps in ensuring young people across the UK and Ireland can see rail as a viable, attractive career regardless of their location.
Unlike company-specific graduate schemes, YRP recruits for the whole industry. Through events, outreach, and networking, YRP has become a trusted voice for students, apprentices, and early-career professionals who might otherwise have overlooked rail. The organisation has created a shared pipeline that benefits the entire sector, uniting operators, suppliers, and government bodies around a common mission: bringing new talent into rail. It has done this for the last 15 years.
YRP’s achievements in recruitment are unique. This is not just one company growing its intake, but a sector-wide movement ensuring rail has the talent it needs to thrive. For its transformative impact on recruitment, YRP is a worthy winner of the learning, development & investing in people award.
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15
INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY TEAM OR PERSON AWARD
This award celebrates individuals or teams who have introduced groundbreaking innovations or technological advancements in the rail industry. Judges will be looking for initiatives that have improved performance, safety, efficiency, sustainability, or customer experience. Whether in digital signalling, infrastructure, rolling stock, or passenger services, nominees will have demonstrated creativity and impact through their innovations.
You can see all the past winners here.
Alex Foster
Company Name
Alstom
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Over the past 5 years Alex has gone above and beyond to ensure the successful development and deployment of Alstom's new MCS-Infinity (Modular Control System-Infinity) product release to the market.
He has managed to harbour great relationships with the primary sponsor Network Rail, keeping them appraised of developments to the software release and their deployment across multiple projects in the Eastern and Southern Regions (Victoria Phase 4, East-West Rail and Cambridge to name a few). Building a sense of trust and open communication between contractor and employer as well as maintaining internal moral and drive to complete software releases on time.
Supported by hardworking and technologically advanced product development team (including but not limited to Andrew Belson, Simon Mitcham and Andrew Cannon) MCS-I has introduced an improved visual graphic display for the control centre workstations, limiting the number of screens required to control the workstation by implementing 4 curved screens as opposed to 8 separated monitors. The seamless transition allows for improved workflow across the desktop and has been championed by the signal operators currently using it. The introduction of MCS-I should lead to increase reliability and improved safety across the rail network by allowing automatic route setting in conjunction with replaced outdated (1980s) trackside equipment.
In the lead up to and post commissioning of the workstations up and down the country, Alex gave up all his spare time and weekends to ensure the product was functioning suitably for the client, going above what was expected of the Control Systems Program Manager. Accepting challenges when they were posed, such as additional rounds of Independent Safety Authorisation (ISA) queries and requirements. He has done and continues to do so with enthusiasm for advancing technology in the railway industry, and has been a positive influence on those around him.
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CheckPoint (RSI & PMO: Alan Mason, Ian Ward, Andy Gordon, Eva Sackx Liam McBride, Antony Jackson)
Company Name
Network Rail/ Jacobs UK Ltd
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The CheckPoint Authority App is a transformative innovation developed to improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability on Network Rail worksites. Originally prototyped in 2018 by Dave and Andy Gordon (C&G Systems), the app replaces the previously manual process that could involve up to 140 phone calls per evening, with a streamlined mobile solution that grants simultaneous worksite access authority. It has been hugely successful, delivering wide-reaching tangible improvements across three critical areas of rail operations—enhancing safety, streamlining efficiency, and supporting sustainability.
Safety has been significantly enhanced, with Engineering Supervisors now able to focus on critical site issues rather than managing multiple calls under pressure. The app ensures accurate authority is granted, with clear details from the Weekly Operating Notice, reducing miscommunication and improving confidence for Controllers of Site Safety. Efficiency has improved through consistent access and egress times, ensuring booked schedules are adhered to and reducing lost time. Sustainability benefits are also clear, with fewer overruns and improved project completion rates reducing environmental impact from machinery and travel.
The strength of the CheckPoint project lies in the exceptional team behind its development and deployment. They recognised the need to come together stronger as a team with shared clarity of purpose. From its inception, the project was shaped by a collaborative approach that integrated Human Factors, Lean principles, and rigorous safety standards. Dave and Andy Gordon were instrumental in adapting the app based on real-world feedback, embracing Human Factors to ensure the solution remained intuitive and accessible to all users. Eva Sackx and Jo Dawson led the Human Factors process, expertly translating site team insights into actionable design improvements. Eva’s contribution was particularly impactful: her expert application of the Common Safety Method (CSM), combined with her delivery of technical safety assessments, enabled the project to meet national and regional assurance standards. Her leadership ensured the app was not only compliant but also person-focused—designed to support the safety and wellbeing of those using it on the ground.
Craig Nichols and John Lattimore played a vital role in enabling live trials, acting as ambassadors for the app among Engineering Supervisors and site teams. Their advocacy helped build trust and engagement, ensuring the solution was embraced across TRU East. Jonny Cooper provided essential funding for these trials, enabling data-driven feedback and iterative development. Alan and Ian coordinated sponsorship, reporting, and deployment planning, while also managing external communications and risk capture. Their use of Lean tools helped demonstrate the app’s tangible benefits and supported its wider rollout. Liam McBride and Anthony Jackson ensured compliance with complex safety requirements, including HAZID, CSM, and NRAP, and were instrumental in simplifying technical communication across stakeholders.
Through their dedication, collaboration, and deep understanding of frontline needs, the CheckPoint team has delivered a solution that improves safety, reduces bureaucracy, and saves time. Their work sets a new benchmark for innovation in rail—driven not just by technology, but by the people who made it possible.
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Fergal Malone
Company Name
AECOM
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Fergal Malone is driving innovation in rail systems design through his hands-on use and technical development of Bentley Raceway and Cable Management (BRCM). His work is helping to reshape how cable routing is planned and delivered, with the potential to bring significant improvements in efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
As part of a major infrastructure programme, Fergal identified the limitations of traditional cable design workflows, which are often time-consuming and prone to rework. In response, he has taken a leading role in introducing BRCM, a digital tool that combines schematic and 3D modelling to coordinate power, signalling, telecom, and SCADA cable routes. The application is designed to automate cable routing, detect clashes early, and streamline documentation processes.
Fergal is not only using the tool directly in a live project environment, but also actively liaising with Bentley’s technical team in Germany to resolve configuration and coding challenges. His input has been critical in adapting the software to meet UK rail standards and project-specific requirements, ensuring it can be effectively deployed across complex rail corridors.
To support this work, Fergal has completed 48 hours of structured Bentley training, covering fundamentals, deployment, configuration, and project coaching. This has equipped him with the expertise to use the tool effectively and to guide others in its application.
The tool is still in its early stages of deployment. However, early use has shown strong potential for efficiencies. BRCM is expected to reduce manual design effort, improve construction planning, and support more accurate asset data hand-back. It also enables pre-construction clash detection, which can help reduce material waste and improve onsite safety.
Fergal’s work supports a wide range of cable management requirements, including cable protection, disconnection points, diverse routing, and installation planning. By digitising these processes, he is helping to future-proof design delivery and reduce the risk of errors during construction.
Collaboration has been central to Fergal’s approach. He has worked closely with the South Rail Systems Alliance (AECOM, COLAS Rail, Network Rail), and Bentley to ensure the tool is integrated into wider project workflows. His efforts have laid the foundation for broader adoption and future enhancements, including potential integration with platforms like iTwin for digital interfacing and quantity take-offs.
Fergal Malone exemplifies the innovation, technical skill, and collaborative mindset that this award celebrates. His hands-on use of BRCM, combined with his technical leadership and engagement with software developers, is helping to drive meaningful change in how rail infrastructure is designed and delivered. As the application matures, the full impact of his work will become increasingly clear, setting a new benchmark for digital transformation in the rail industry.
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Graeme Roberts
Company Name
Network Rail
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Award Nomination Statement for Graeme Roberts
Graeme Roberts has demonstrated exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact through the development and deployment of a groundbreaking mobile meter reading application. This nomination statement outlines the compelling reasons why Graeme deserves recognition for his outstanding contribution to Network Rail and the broader utilities management landscape.
1. Addressing a Critical Industry Challenge
The utility sector has long grappled with the challenge of obtaining accurate, real-time meter readings from non-Automatic Meter Reading (non-AMR) devices. Traditional methods rely heavily on scheduled visits by external meter readers, which are often delayed, costly, and prone to inaccuracies. These delays frequently result in estimated billing, which can inflate costs by as much as 30% compared to actual usage. Graeme identified this systemic issue and took proactive steps to develop a solution that not only addresses the problem but transforms the way meter data is collected and utilized.
2. Innovative Technological Solution
Graeme's invention—a mobile application that captures meter readings via photographs—leverages the power of AI and the Microsoft Power Platform. The app uses Optical Character Recognition (OCR) to extract data from images taken by staff members. This data is then automatically uploaded to a SharePoint site, enabling real-time access to accurate meter readings. The app is designed to be intuitive and efficient, allowing users to complete the entire process in under 10 seconds. This innovation eliminates the need for external meter readers and empowers on-site staff to contribute to data collection seamlessly.
3. Real-Time Data and Strategic Decision-Making
By providing real-time access to accurate meter readings, the app enables Network Rail to make informed decisions regarding asset management and energy consumption. The availability of precise data supports strategic initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, optimizing resource allocation, and enhancing operational efficiency. This level of insight was previously unattainable due to the lag in data collection and the reliance on estimated billing.
4. Cost Savings and Operational Efficiency
The financial implications of Graeme's app are substantial. By eliminating the reliance on estimated billing, Network Rail can avoid overcharges that often exceed 30% of actual usage. Additionally, the app reduces the need for external contractors, resulting in significant cost savings. With thousands of assets across the network, the cumulative impact of these savings is considerable. The app also streamlines workflows, reducing administrative overhead and freeing up resources for other critical tasks.
5. Scalability
One of the most impressive aspects of Graeme's solution is its scalability. The app is downloadable and can be used by any staff member with a mobile device. This democratization of data collection means that meter readings can be captured by personnel already present in the area, further reducing the need for dedicated meter reading visits. The app's user-friendly interface ensures that it can be adopted quickly and effectively across diverse teams and locations.
6. Recognition and Adoption
Graeme's work has not gone unnoticed. The app has been showcased at internal events such as the Power App Developers' Community Monthly Meeting and the Utilities App Demo/Handover. These presentations
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Harrison Currill
Company Name
Transport for Wales
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Harrison joined Transport for Wales just over a year ago and has made an incredible difference in improving the positive perception of his department that is largely based in South Wales, by him being the sole representative in North Wales.
Particularly so at such a young age, his knowledge and professionalism are outstanding and his customer service skills surrounding his role are the difference that sets him apart and have such a positive effect on improving the experience of our colleagues in North Wales.
He’s hugely proactive, such as recently working incredibly hard to catch up workload that ensured my group of new entrants to TFW had all their tech kit available to them on the day that they started with us; this is something that hasn’t been able to happen before, but because he has built such a great working relationship with the local team, we are able to communicate with his department so much more positively and effectively and have come to be able to trust working within improved timeframes.
He's had a massive impact improving internal stakeholder perception of his department within TFW and considering he’s only 20; I think he’s having a phenomenal start to his career in which the sky is the limit for him. He’s hugely well respected by everyone who you mention his name to locally and has been the perfect appointment to that role that has introduced a visible and contactable presence around the offices in our area. This is absolutely down to his personality and ability to communicate so well with all the people that he works with.
It's great to have Harrison looking after our digital interests and will be a pleasure to see him continually develop and progress throughout his career, which I’ve absolutely no doubt that he will.
A real unsung hero in a railway job that most people don't see or interact with!
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insight Optimal Adoption Areas Team
Company Name
Network Rail
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The Optimal Adoption Areas (OAA) Team is transforming how maintenance colleagues work by bringing innovation to the front line and embedding technology that directly improves performance, safety, and efficiency.
Small team, real impact
The team is made-up of five people, but its impact is far reaching. They’ve been brought together by their determination to unlock the intelligence behind the wealth of data already collected on the railway. Together they’re rolling out a predictive maintenance tool nationally to over 170 track sections, traveling across the network from Plymouth to Perth, and everywhere in-between to support teams, capture feedback and embed insight into their daily processes.
Lasting change
The team started their change journey with 10 track sections during summer 2024. They took time to understand the level of support needed to integrate this new and complex technology, understanding that a one size fits all approach wouldn’t work nationally. The proceeding rollout approach and technical updates have been driven by front line feedback.
Through collaborative working the team have successfully established:
• Leadership support
• Drumbeat communications to keep the tool front of mind and colleague centric case studies promote peer-to-peer advocacy
• A continuous feedback loop powered by front line feedback for future releases.
Through face-to-face upskilling sessions, tailored demos, and a dedicated three month period of support, they’ve helped sections integrate insight into their daily workflows—making it a natural part of how teams plan, prioritise, and respond to track failures. Their committed and granular approach has worked.
By the end of 2025 the team will have provided dedicated support to over 120 sections. Usage data reflects the lasting impact of their approach; the number of meaningful interactions (defect updates and work order creation) steadily increases and is sustained period on period after being supported by the OAA team.
Why their work matters - improved performance
insight uses AI to predict failures up to a year in advance giving teams the ability to spot issues before they cause delays.
"We're using insight to proactively manage the highest risk pre-alerts for cyclic top and haven't had any ESRs across the Cardiff TME section for the past year." Chris Charles, Track Maintenance Engineer
Improved safety and compliance
By improving visibility of asset condition and risk, insight supports safer decision-making. Maintenance teams now have the data they need to act early, reducing the likelihood of incidents and improving compliance with standards.
“insight gives me a full understanding of what’s happening on site, it’s helping me to reduce the need to send teams to site for needless visual inspections.” Walid Choucair, Section Manager
In the past maintenance colleagues have felt ‘done to’. They have felt excluded from the development process and consequently the tools haven’t met their needs. The OAA team are determined for this not to happen again, they’re putting people at the centre of all that they do, taking them on the development journey. In turn users feel empowered, and the technology isn’t just improving how they work—it’s improving the railway for all.
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Lydia Fairman National Workforce Planning team
Company Name
Network Rail
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Lydia has provided the vision, the investment, the encouragement to think differently and to push for strategic solutions with a tangible, benefit to the business. Her driving force behind the whole of the WFP programme has established the conditions which have enabled the National Workforce Planning team, in collaboration with specialists at the Workforce Development Trust to develop a Signaller Vacancy Estimator Tool working closely with Southern Region Route Operating Manager Max Coventry, Systems Thinking, Western route and Southern Region. Following a Systems Thinking diagnostic in the Southern Region, Sussex Route was identified as a pilot area that would benefit from workforce planning enhancements such a tool to be developed over the course of several months – Utilising a significant amount of workforce supply data, we co-created a deterministic model, which is able to forecast when a vacancy is likely to arise. We mapped retirement profiles, transfer profiles, and flows in and out of the role over the course of the past five years. This gives the business confidence to project forward the anticipated needs. This will help with proactive recruitment, drive down overtime costs, and reduce the risks associated with unplanned emergencies or surge demand needs. Despite pressures to accelerate, we have stayed the course to ensure the output is fit for purpose. Lydia's innovative approach and leadership has led to successful collaboration and the development of a new tool
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Nathan Sealy
Company Name
Amey
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Supporting Statement:
Nathan Sealy has demonstrated exceptional innovation and leadership in the development and implementation of the Smart Electrification solution on the Core Valley Lines in the Cardiff Area, which entered operational service this year. This pioneering approach addresses complex infrastructure challenges and sets a new benchmark for sustainable and cost-effective railway electrification.
What did they do?
Nathan led the team that designed and delivered a discontinuous electrification system using battery-powered rolling stock and strategically placed catenary-free sections (CFSs) and permanently earthed sections (PESs). The system includes an Automatic Power Change Over (APCO) functionality, enabled by beacon-based communication between the train and infrastructure. This innovation allows trains to seamlessly switch power modes, reducing the need for extensive overhead line equipment (OLE) in difficult terrain. With this solution, instead of adopting multimillion-pound major civils interventions, an electric train can travel the full 38 km from Treherbert to Cardiff Bay by automating 40 circuit breaker operations along the route setting a new standard for cost-effective railway electrification.
Why did they do it?
The traditional electrification approach posed significant civil engineering challenges and high costs in the Core Valley Lines area. Nathan’s vision was to create a smarter, more adaptable solution that would overcome these barriers while maintaining performance and safety. His approach reflects a deep understanding of the railway system as an integrated whole, rather than isolated components.
How did they do it?
Nathan applied a systems engineering mindset, combining infrastructure and rolling stock considerations. He and his team:
- Thought outside the box by repurposing existing beacon technology—originally used for door control—to also signal CFS and PES locations to the train, triggering APCO.
- Adopted emerging battery technologies, leveraging their rapid development to complement traditional electrification methods.
- Used theoretical modelling to align infrastructure concept design with the two train designs, ensuring seamless integration.
- Developed a digital twin to simulate system behaviour under various scenarios, enabling data-driven decision-making and risk mitigation.
What was the result?
The Smart Electrification system is now operational, delivering a cost-effective, sustainable, and scalable solution for railway electrification. It has improved infrastructure efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and demonstrated how innovation can transform legacy systems. Nathan’s work has not only solved a local challenge but also created a model that can be replicated across the rail industry.
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Paul Meenan
Company Name
C2C Rail
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Paul Meenan is a champion of applied innovation in station backbone systems, the electrical and safety infrastructures that underpin safe, efficient, and reliable operations. His career focus has been on embedding new technologies that deliver measurable safety, cost, and sustainability benefits, while teaching and inspiring others to adopt them.
Key Innovations:
• Envirograf Fire Tubes – Introduced as a passive fire safety measure within electrical systems, removing the need for intrusive and costly sprinkler systems (often £300k per site) while improving station fire resilience.
• Hot Connect Indicators (HCI) – Championing devices that visually highlight overheating connections, enabling staff to detect and act on risks before failure occurs, shifting maintenance from reactive to preventative.
• Schneider Acti9 Power Tag – Transforming electrical monitoring from passive to proactive. Stations can now monitor energy use, identify abnormal loads, and predict issues before they escalate, improving safety, efficiency, and supporting Net Zero.
• Stray Current Capture and Reuse (Concept Development) – Paul is leading thinking on how stray electrical currents from railway systems could be captured and reused where viable. This concept has the potential to reduce energy waste, improve safety, and contribute to sustainability goals.
Impact:
Through these initiatives, Paul has delivered:
• Reduced electrical fire risk and greater compliance resilience
• Significant cost avoidance through smarter, leaner safety solutions
• Proactive monitoring and fault detection, reducing downtime and unplanned failures
• New sustainability pathways through digital monitoring and emerging energy recovery ideas
Champion and Teacher:
Paul is not only an innovator but also a champion and educator. He actively shares his ideas and applied experience across c2c and the wider Network Rail teams, as well as through industry forums, mentoring programmes, and technical talks. His ability to communicate innovation in practical, accessible terms ensures these ideas become embedded into practice and culture, not just projects.
Why Paul?
Station systems are the hidden backbone of the railway. Without innovation here, progress on safety, efficiency, and sustainability stalls. Paul has consistently shown how applied, practical innovation in these systems can drive long-term safety, value, and industry wide improvement, making him a standout candidate for this award.
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Project Pluto Programme Team
Company Name
Rail Delivery Group and Black Box
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The Nominated Team for the Innovation and Technology Award is: Project Pluto Programme Team
Pluto is a digital first Information Platform and Chatbot with the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Pluto helps rail frontline staff validate live service queries, using real-time verified information. Ultimately focusing on customer centric services. Pluto answers queries through innovation and technology.
Passenger Assist (PA) was the first service trialled, at Birmingham New Street. The number of customers requesting PA services is 2.7M (2024/2025 RDG data),100K PA requests being for Birmingham New Street
Welcome to Pluto! https://pluto.app.nationalrail.co.uk/
Challenge: In collaboration between RDG and Black Box, Pluto addresses, in one place:
• Static and fragmented information sources and rail data feeds
• Frontline staff accessing real-time answers, supported by a Chatbot
• Verified rail industry information
• Self-help, via mobile devices, tablet or desktop
• Consistent staff communication
• Staff engagement and interaction
Approach: The project alliance between service delivery and A&I teams, TOC staff, PA, technology / AI expertise and industry insights, has ensured the project team immerse themselves into rail requirements, data feeds and technology intervention. Resulting in designing a platform that provides a path to engage, learn and inform. Forming a cultural shift towards proactive data driven rail operations and enhanced performances.
Pluto can be accessed via Single Sign On (SSO) (or manually). SSO access is an innovation first with alignment across multiple TOCs, supported by their own security protocols and governance.
Solution: Pluto demonstrates innovation by offering valuable guidance in one place. Queries could include ‘why can’t I log into the PA app’ or ‘which platform does the 16.02pm depart from” etc. Pluto provides user guides which reduces 1st line service desk tickets.
Pluto encourages staff engagement by sharing their ideas, logging feedback, recording insights and prompts community interaction across all levels of service delivery. Pluto provides bite size training to educate with knowledge, accessing FAQs in summaries.
The project has been in constant consultation, to ensure relevancy and relatability. Through feedback, new features and new data sets have already been added.
Results:
First 24 hours of go live - 22% engagement from trialists for roadmap development (CX focus)
First week - 30% engagement rate of watching compliance videos
To date - 87% AI accuracy (above industry standard)
Over 4 days - 140+ knowledge enhanced with real time questions and validations provided
Delivered - 100% SSO access across all integrated TOCs
Delivered - Consolidated and augmented real time data feeds from SISJ and RDM
Pluto is agnostic and scalable, ready to be rolled out across the network, supporting all rail services and future rail industry design.
Outcomes: Pluto will create a benchmark for GB rail service operations, thanks to forward thinking innovation and technology. It will unquestionably deliver efficiencies and provide consistency of knowledge shared.
Customer service can determine modal shift to and from rail. Therefore, the results and success factors determined for Pluto, are derived by customers and staff being at the core.
Welcome to Pluto!
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Simon Watts
Company Name
Amey Rail
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Simon Watts works for Amey Rail as a Project Manager.
Simon led the transition of Amey’s ALARM (Asset Logistics And Report Management) system into the latest generation, digital cloud-based solution (ALARM2) which is used extensively in the industry to report on the integrity of railway structures and provide asset compliance reports. This being a very high-profile subject in the industry, given the importance of the civils examination process to Network Rail, as monitored by the ORR.
Simon’s knowledge and expertise of software for civils asset integrity in Amey is second to none. He is the key link between Amey’s software developers and the end users who work for Amey and Network Rail, examining and reviewing the many thousands of safety critical reports that enable Network Rail to maintain their civils infrastructure.
Simon has worked in the rail industry for over 15 years and his dedication to the delivery of these essential services has been exemplary throughout this time. He is highly respected by Bridge Examiners, Engineers and support teams in Amey. His ability to translate users’ needs into software solutions that work on the ground, has resulted in a transformation in the business, in the way in which examinations are processed. Due to the processing power of ALARM2 the system can handle ultra-high-definition images that take the examination process to the next level.
Working in collaboration with his colleagues, Simon has also pioneered the use of the new ALARM2 software with the latest generation of the mobile devices; providing the foundations to monitor defects over time using the latest technology. He also made Amey’s extensive history of defects and photographs available to Network Rail by writing special scripts to interrogate the extensive asset data set. This has enabled research into asset failure modes and timelines.
To take things even further, Simon worked very closely with Network Rail on the interface between ALARM2 and NEST (Network Enterprise Structures & Tunnels System) as part of the Intelligent Infrastructure (II) Programme. NEST centralises asset data, maintenance planning, and lifecycle management, ensuring the safety and reliability over 76,000 structures and tunnels across the network.
In Simon’s own words……
"My goal has always been to streamline data capture, ensuring it's efficient and accurate, while transforming that data into meaningful insights our clients can use to make safer and smarter decisions across the network. ALARM2 has been a truly collaborative effort, reflecting the shared commitment to innovation and safety."
According to Kevin Shelton, Amey Account Director for the Civils Examinations and Assessments Framework:
“Simon has made a significant contribution to Amey and the wider industry, through his dedication to ensuring that asset management software solutions reflect the latest developments and work on the ground for users in a way that users welcome and value. As with change in infrastructure programmes, introducing upgrades to essential software systems is challenging, and Simon has worked throughout to ensure the success of ALARM2 and the NEST interface.”
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Southern Safer Isolations
Company Name
Network Rail
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Team Nomination - Southern Safer Isolations:
The United Kingdom has the largest third rail network in the world and is mostly found within Network Rail’s Southern region, with 84% of all lines across the region being electrified with third rail.
Third rail is an exposed conductor, powered at 750V DC, and is always live, unless isolated for engineering works or an emergency. During engineering works, we isolate the conductor rail, and to prevent inadvertent re-energisation, we apply short circuit straps between the running rails, and the conductor rail at specified locations.
This process commonly requires a minimum of two trained and competent people to access the track, when requested by an authorised person, to test the conductor rail with manual live line testers to ensure the conductor rail is isolated and then follow a process of installing a short circuit bar and applying short circuit straps. This process is normally repeated several times by each team, depending on the number of railway lines, and proximity to substations, TP Huts and adjoining electrical sections.
There have however, been a number of strapping incidents, with over 40 reported since 2019, including eight where staff placed, or attempted to place a strap or short circuit bar on a live conductor rail causing an electrical trip, which had potential to cause significant harm to strapping staff, such as what occurred on 12 June 2020, where one of our colleagues suffered life changing injuries whilst undertaking normal strapping duties at our Ditcham Substation in Wessex.
To help prevent incidents such as this from happening in future and to ensure our colleagues are safer when carrying out track work, we have commenced a programme of work centred around the installation of Negative Short Circuit Devices.
NSCDs are a safer, less complex and time intensive method of securing isolations for track maintenance. The most notable change being that our track workers no longer need to physically access the railway. NSCDs can be operated from a local control panel in a position of safety negating the need for staff to go on site and apply short-circuiting straps to the conductor rail.
So far, 59% of the 477 identified NSCD sites are commissioned for use, and a full programme to deliver NSCD to at least 80% of the Southern regions’ third rail lines by the end of Control Period 7 (CP7) in 2029.
The control panels for the NSCD equipment are installed in a position of safety away from the track, negating the requirement for line blockages or for colleagues to access the track, and will be a tangible safety improvement for years to come.
The ongoing operation of NSCD has removed the requirement to apply 56,280 short circuit straps over the last 3 years, which in turn, has removed thousands of staff from the trackside, and near potentially live conductor rail hazards and will eventually remove the requirement to install short circuit straps at all in many locations.
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The Signalling Company Team
Company Name
The Signalling Company
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Alex and our team at The Signalling Company have received ETCS Certification for the industry's first TRULY software-defined on-board safety platform. The platform has been developed and certified in less than 6 years with less than 60 staff which, based on independent feedback, we believe is an industry record. The platform is currently in commercial operation on the Lineas HLD77 fleet. Using common off-the-shelf hardware, it is the first safety platform to completely decouple ETCS and National Class B safety applications from the underlying hardware, making it obsolescence proof. This factor combined with the platform's tiny installation footprint means it optimizes energy consumption, installation material, weight, and payload space, and in doing so dramatically improves the financial performance of rail vehicles over their entire operation life. Alex and his team have remained steadfast in the face of what the safety industry considers the ultimate challenge - developing and certifying an ETCS system. Software-defined safety was a vison that all but TSCs founders seemed to believe was possible. It is no longer a vision, it is here, it is now and it is real. The company's ETCS Certification has been publicly announced on the 24th Sept at the Trako event in Gdansk, Poland. It is currently available on the ERADIS site.
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Tim Leach
Company Name
Carlisle Support Services
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I am delighted to nominate Tim for recognition due to his outstanding support of our Contract with ARL (Arriva Rail London). Tim has demonstrated exceptional initiative and innovation by designing and implementing bespoke data collection tailored to our client’s needs.
These Data capture forms have significantly streamlined our operational processes, saving valuable time not only for Managers but also for Supervisors. This efficiency gain has enabled our teams to focus more effectively on delivering and maintaining the quality of the Contract.
Tim’s solution captures comprehensive staff data, enabling us to identify individuals who require additional support. This proactive approach has enhanced our ability to monitor progress and ensure that all staff receive the appropriate guidance and development opportunities. As a result, we’ve seen a measurable reduction in KPI-related issues and a marked improvement in SIS (Staff Information Surveys) knowledge across the board.
Tim’s contribution has not only improved internal workflows but has also strengthened our client relationship by demonstrating our commitment to continuous improvement and responsiveness.
His work exemplifies the values of innovation, collaboration, and excellence, and I wholeheartedly recommend him for this award.
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UK Battery Project Team
Company Name
Hitachi Rail
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Hitachi Rail’s Intercity Battery Train Trial: A Transformative Leap in Sustainable Rail Technology
Radical Innovation: A Like-for-Like Battery Replacement for Diesel: In 2024, Hitachi Rail became the first company globally to replace a diesel engine with a battery in an intercity train, achieving a like-for-like match in weight (6 tonnes), size, and power output (700kW). The trial, in the North of England on a Class 802 bi-mode train, demonstrates that a battery-powered train can operate in normal service without disruption to schedules or the wider network. This innovation addresses a fundamental challenge: how to reduce emissions on non-electrified routes without waiting decades for full infrastructure upgrades. With only 37% of the UK network currently electrified, battery trains offer a scalable bridge to a net-zero railway, which is of course, a key aim for the country.
Performance, Efficiency, and Environmental Impact: The trial represents a significant advancement in train propulsion. The train operates successfully in mixed-mode power (battery and diesel) without disrupting surrounding services. Key benefits include zero emissions at stations, improved air quality, reduced noise, and a battery-only range of over 70km. Intelligent energy management capabilities, including adaptive driving strategies and eco-mode, result in fuel savings of 35%-50% and enhanced energy recovery through regenerative braking.
Real-World Results: For Passengers, Operators, and the Industry: Passenger benefits include zero-emission arrivals and departures, improved air quality, and reduced noise. Operational performance sees up to 50% reduction in fuel use. The trial supports cost-effective decarbonisation on routes unlikely to be electrified, backed by over £17 million in UK battery investment.
Safety, Reliability, and Long-Term Value: Safety is central to the battery system's development. The system is operator-friendly and supports smart charging and regenerative braking for energy optimisation.
Global Impact and Future Adoption: The innovation is influencing rail technology globally. The UK trial's success has led to discussions for expanded deployment. Hitachi Rail secured a £300 million contract for 45 battery train cars for Arriva Group.
Quantifiable Benefits:
Fuel Savings: Up to 50% reduction in diesel use
Emissions: Zero emissions in station environments; up to 50% CO₂ reduction overall
Passenger Comfort: Lower noise, improved air quality
Operational Continuity: No infrastructure changes or timetable disruption
Battery Range: Achieves 70+ km in battery-only mode
Why Battery Trains Matter: Battery technology allows faster decarbonisation of rail compared to other solutions. It supports smart grid energy strategies and avoids the high cost of full electrification.
Project Team and Collaboration: Led by Christopher Dautel, Rich Smith, Luke Smith.
Future Directions: Continued trials and expanded battery deployment. Hitachi Rail secured a £300 million contract for Grand Central and Arriva Group to deliver cheaper, greener, and more reliable journeys with this pioneering battery technology. This contract win will increase seats by 20%, improving capacity and connectivity. The increase in seat numbers means that 400,000 additional seats per year will be available to passengers traveling between the North East, Yorkshire, and London.
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15
LEARNING, DEVELOPMENT & INVESTING IN PEOPLE AWARD
This award celebrates individuals or teams that have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to developing talent within the rail industry. Recognising initiatives that enhance skills, knowledge, and career progression, it honours those who invest in training, mentoring, apprenticeships, and professional growth. Judges will be looking for innovative programs that empower employees and contribute to a highly skilled workforce.
CEX learning and development trainers
Company Name
Avanti West Coast
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Having recently taken a complete career change the nerves prior to starting orientation at AWC had led to me feeling physically sick with worry. From my first contact with Mike and the team I couldn't believe the care the team took with us all. At a time when they had multiple orientations running and that didn't stop us each feeling that we individually where the priority to the team.
Day one we met Holly and Andrew. The comradely and professional approach was instantly seen. Over the 2 weeks we had training far superior to some of the biggest company's in the world that I have worked for. Mike as the manager was available to us all at all times and had recently ran a half marathon for charity that we found displayed in the charity wall. He spoke honestly and from the heart as a true leader. Holly had a unique way of making everything we did feel impactful, she is inspiring, we could be hero's safeguarding passenger's, we are core to the future of equality and equity and I for the first time understand this and her passion for accessibility with Ricky and Summer the Guide dog has truly changed everything. We cause disability from the world we create for people! Andrew taught us the complex safety world of our new jobs, we even evacuated out of a train and put out fires. Andrews training for tickets was so informative. This company prepares you for everything that matters. Ram's passion for uniform standards and company values was something I have never seen in any other company. Both Holly and Andrews support to complete assessments and make adjustments to fit everyone was such avocation for all to join the railway. Mike has one hell of a team.
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Chris Davey
Company Name
Transport for Wales
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Introduction
Chris Davey has demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation in learning and development by creating a cross-industry programme that brought together colleagues from Transport for Wales, Network Rail, and Amey Infrastructure Wales. His work has significantly enhanced the understanding and implementation of the Rail Delivery Group’s GN049 guidance document, which redefines how the industry responds to incidents involving stranded trains and passengers
Chris developed and delivered a series of fifteen workshops aimed at educating hundreds of colleagues across various roles including controllers, driver managers, conductor managers, and resource managers. These sessions focused on the revised GN049 guidance, which shifts the industry’s approach from managing 'stranded trains' to prioritising 'stranded customers'.
The workshops included real-life incident examples and simulated scenarios to build situational awareness and practical skills. Chris ensured broad attendance by scheduling multiple sessions and incorporating interactive exercises that allowed participants to apply the guidance in realistic settings.
The programme led to a significant cultural shift within the organisation, fostering a more customer-focused mindset. Since the workshops, teams have successfully applied the new skills during actual incidents, improving response times and customer care. The initiative enabled Transport for Wales and Network Rail Wales to implement the GN049 guidance ahead of schedule.
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) attended one of the workshops and praised the programme, recommending it as a model for other Train Operating Companies. This recognition underscores the programme’s effectiveness and Chris’s contribution to industry-wide learning and development. The work done deomnstrated
Feedback
Colleagues provided overwhelmingly positive feedback, noting a clearer understanding of industry expectations and improved confidence in handling customer-focused incidents. The workshops were described as engaging, informative, and transformative.
Conclusion
Chris Davey’s dedication to learning and development has had a lasting impact on the industry. His innovative approach, commitment to collaboration, and focus on customer outcomes make him a deserving nominee for the Learning, Development & Investing in People Award.
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Christopher Duke
Company Name
AECOM
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Christopher Duke is a passionate advocate for developing talent in the rail industry. As a CAD/BIM Manager at AECOM, he has consistently demonstrated innovation, mentorship, and leadership in supporting apprentices, trainees, and early career professionals.
Christopher has played a key role in facilitating apprentice discipline rotations, ensuring individuals gain broad exposure across engineering functions. His mentorship has directly contributed to the success of apprentices such as Ryan Thomas, who was named Civil Engineering Apprentice of the Year by New College Swindon. Christopher’s proactive recognition of this achievement and his efforts to celebrate it internally reflect his dedication to nurturing talent.
Under his guidance, apprentices have received Silver Quality Stars for exceptional contributions to high-pressure projects like Old Oak Common Rail Systems. Christopher advocated for this recognition, highlighting their ability to deliver complex CAD outputs while balancing academic commitments. His support has helped apprentices thrive in demanding environments, demonstrating his commitment to technical excellence and professional development.
Christopher’s leadership extends beyond technical mentorship. He recently nominated Ryan Thomas for a Safety for Life Award following Ryan’s quick and compassionate response to a colleague experiencing a medical episode. Christopher’s advocacy for formal recognition and a spot bonus demonstrates his commitment to embedding a culture of care and vigilance within his team.
He actively mentors and trains trainees, providing hands-on guidance and feedback that fosters both technical growth and professional confidence. His approach is inclusive, supportive, and focused on long-term development.
Christopher regularly attends and presents at careers conventions, including the Swindon Borough Council National Apprenticeship Week Networking Event, where he tailored his speech to inspire and inform apprentices from various providers. His engagement with external stakeholders and educational institutions strengthens the bridge between industry and education.
He also contributes to work experience programmes, helping facilitate discipline rotations for over a dozen students in 2025. His involvement ensured that students left with a positive impression of engineering and the rail industry, as noted in feedback from AECOM’s Associate Director. Christopher’s flexibility and willingness to share his time and experience helped make these programmes a success.
Leading by example, Christopher is currently undertaking an MSc in Building Information Management at Oxford Brookes University. His commitment to lifelong learning enhances his ability to mentor others in emerging technologies and digital transformation.
Christopher Duke’s unwavering commitment to developing talent, his innovative approach to mentorship, and his active engagement in safety, education, and community outreach make him an exemplary candidate for the RailStaff Innovation & Technology Award. His work not only empowers individuals but also strengthens the rail industry’s future by cultivating a highly skilled and motivated workforce.
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Customer Experience Training Team
Company Name
South Western Railway
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I am incredibly proud to nominate the CX Training Team at South Western Railway for the Learning & Development Award. As their manager, I see first-hand the dedication, creativity, and passion they bring to developing our people every single day. This team goes above and beyond to ensure that every learner is not only trained but truly supported and confident when stepping into their role.
From the very first three-day induction through to ongoing refresher sessions and celebration days, the team create a culture where learning never stops. They deliver an impressive variety of courses for Customer Ambassadors, Customer Service Assistants, Rail Operators, and Revenue Protection colleagues. These include Welcome to SWR, Disability & Equality Awareness, Conflict Awareness, Retail Training for On-Train and Station Colleagues, and Non-Technical Skills for Rail Operators.
More specialist courses, such as Body Worn Video & Disorder Guidance, Ticket Irregularities, and Coaching Skills, ensure colleagues are equipped for the more complex aspects of the job, while workshops like Our Journey to Better and Team Building build collaboration and pride in being part of SWR.
What makes this team stand out is how they deliver training. Their sessions are never about 'ticking a box'; they are engaging, practical, and rooted in real railway experience. They make learning conversational and inclusive, creating a safe environment where colleagues feel able to participate and grow in confidence.
The feedback we receive speaks volumes:
“The training was fantastic – it gave me everything I needed to carry out my duties. It showed me how to deal with difficult situations and treat customers fairly and professionally, whatever their needs.”
“The training gave us the tools to deal with ticketing situations ourselves, accurately and impartially, and helped us make sure customers always had the right tickets.”
“I enjoyed that the training was conversational and inclusive. It wasn’t overwhelming – it built on what we already knew in a really supportive way.”
“I recently completed the CSA course, and I couldn’t be more impressed. It was thorough, engaging, and full of real-world examples. I left feeling so much more confident.”
I see the difference this team makes every day. They don’t just deliver training, they empower colleagues to succeed, to grow, and to feel proud of what they do. The skills and confidence colleagues gain translate directly into safer operations, smoother journeys, and better customer service across our network.
This team truly embody what Learning & Development should be in the rail industry: innovative, supportive, and focused on people. I could not be prouder of them, and I wholeheartedly believe they deserve recognition in this category.
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David Craigie
Company Name
Grand Central
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Responding to requests from catering staff for more operational knowledge, David Craigie created the CSA Operational Training programme. This training builds understanding of safety and emergency procedures for non-safety-critical roles, improving confidence and ensuring greater support for both colleagues and customers.
The course combines classroom learning with practical training on board, including operating PassComms, egress handles and safe evacuation techniques. Staff also regularly undertake live exercises such as climbing down via crew steps and ladders to track level.
The programme has since been extended to head office-based staff, which has deepened their understanding of operational challenges and strengthened business-wide engagement.
Feedback has demonstrated real impact across the business, with colleagues responding well to the highly practical, balanced and engaging format. David’s work has provided our teams with valuable skills that empower them to support customers and operational colleagues more effectively.
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Education & Skills
Company Name
Siemens Mobility
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The Education & Skills (E&S) team at Siemens Mobility is redefining rail industry learning through innovation, collaboration, and inclusion. Their commitment to continuous development empowers apprentices, graduates, and experienced professionals alike with the skills and confidence to thrive in a fast-evolving sector.
Internally, they’ve led strategic curriculum refreshes and launched new programmes in partnership with multiple departments. Externally, they deliver high-impact training and apprenticeships that meet rigorous industry and Siemens standards.
Their expertise spans onboard technologies, signalling trackside operations, rolling stock, telecoms and EHS protocols, with contributions to major projects including Goole Manufacturing Facility, East Coast Main Line, TfL Deeptube and Transpennine Route Upgrade. They also manage graduate and apprenticeship schemes for Siemens Mobility and external partners.
Despite being geographically dispersed, the team maintains a unified, high-performance culture. Their inclusive approach ensures training is accessible, engaging, and tailored—delivered via digital platforms, blended formats, and in-person sessions.
The Sentinel team supports diverse learners with rail access credentials, maintaining consistently high standards of compliance.
Continuous improvement strategies for apprenticeships led to dedicated tutors, improved quality, and has achieved top 3% in provider rankings. The curriculum now includes personalised careers guidance aligned with Gatsby Benchmarks and exemplary SEND support.
The E&S team’s passion for people development, safety, and inclusion makes them a beacon of excellence—investing in potential and shaping the future of rail.
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EMR's Apprenticeship Coach Team
Company Name
East Midlands Railway
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The Apprenticeship Coach Team at EMR has been the driving force behind one of the most successful apprenticeship programme transformations in the industry.
Over the past five years, EMR’s Apprenticeship Programme has experienced remarkable growth, increasing apprentice numbers from 63 in 2022 to a projected 180 in 2026 and expanding apprenticeship pathways from 5 to 25. Central to this success is EMR’s Apprenticeship Coach Team, whose dedication, innovation and commitment to excellence have transformed the learner experience and delivered measurable impact across the business.
Delivering measurable impact
The team’s work has had a profound, quantifiable impact. The average time learners spend on programme has reduced from 85 to just 68 weeks, enabling more agile workforce planning and reducing operational disruption.
Functional skills performance has also been transformed. By enhancing English and Maths provision and ensuring regular progress monitoring, first-time pass rates have increased from below 6
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Izzy White
Company Name
South Eastern Railway
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Our Graduate Programme demonstrates a commitment to developing talent within the rail industry by creating a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals equipped to deliver both business value and long-term leadership which is now lead by our very talented Izzy White. Izzy joined our department in November 2024 as the OD Partner with little knowledge of Organisational Development, but we had spotted her talent when she was working in the Internal Communications Team at South Eastern Railway
The programme that Izzy has designed is built around three core principles: structured development through CIRO Connect, real-world experience, and personalised support. Using CIRO Connect enhances their understanding of our industry and adding value to their role. Graduates follow a tailored pathway that combines, accredited learning, and hands-on placements and monthly experiences across key business areas. This rotation model provides exposure to both operational and strategic challenges, enabling graduates to understand the railway and contribute meaningfully from the outset.
Izzy redesign the graduate programme following on from our disappointment that only 1 out of the 4 graduates on the 2023 programme have secured a permanent position. Izzy proposed several mitigations that she is sure will assist in the graduates securing permanent positions.
Each graduate is paired with a dedicated mentor, which come from our graduate alumni, offering regular guidance, career coaching, and professional insight. This creates a cycle of growth and support. Graduates benefit from placement line manager support, Graduate line manager support which is Izzy who will be having regular 121’s with the graduates and access to senior leaders, ensuring they develop not only technical skills but also the confidence and resilience needed for long-term success in the sector.
Graduates are encouraged to lead or participate in projects that deliver real business improvements from efficiency initiatives to enhanced passenger service solutions. It has already been noticed that their fresh perspective will be instrumental in driving data adoption, supporting regulatory planning, and strengthening safety practices.
Inclusion and diversity are also priorities. Under Izzy’s leadership, she actively reached out to underrepresented groups through partnerships with our two universities, Greenwich and Canterbury University. Selection processes were transparent and inclusive, ensuring that opportunities were accessible to a broad range of candidates. This led to a richer, more diverse talent pool that better reflects the communities our railway serves.
Izzy has championed this holistic approach ensures that our investment in people translates directly into business success. Graduates are driving innovation, improving performance, and shaping a railway that is safer, more efficient, and more customer focused. In doing so, she has ensured the programme not only enhances individual careers but also contributes to the wider rail industry by developing future leaders who are capable, motivated, and committed to excellence.
This programme embodies the principles of lifelong learning, inclusivity, and professional development. By combining innovative design with measurable outcomes, it stands as a model of how investment in talent can transform both people and business, creating a workforce ready to meet the challenges of today and the opportunities of tomorrow.
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Jack Gookey
Company Name
Network Rail
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Jack has consistently exemplified exceptional commitment and personal ownership in advancing Electrification and Plant (E&P) competence within the rail industry. His relentless drive and dedication have seen him consistently go above and beyond the expectations of his role, leading improvements in E&P competence not only within Network Rail but across the industry.
Demonstrating a laser-sharp focus on developing competence and nurturing the E&P engineering community, Jack has worked tirelessly across functions within Network Rail and organisations across the Industry. He recognises that the future of the railway is fundamentally rooted in competence, and that achieving the industry's ambitious performance and safety vision requires more than adherence to a rules-based management system.
Over the past five years, Jack has played a pivotal role in revolutionising E&P competence. His leadership of the E&P Engineering Competence Improvement programme has resulted in unprecedented progress: the programme has addressed critical gaps in competence pathways, enhanced the quality of learning interventions, and strengthened mentorship and reassessment practices. Delegates have acknowledged the high quality of the training material, with certain courses achieving a 93% recommendation rate when participants were asked if they would suggest them to others.
Over the last 12 months the E&P Engineering Competence Improvement programme has delivered 20 new routes to competence, including 14 entirely new pathways and several industry-level isolation competences. This enables the upskilling of up to 5,000 people across the industry, ensuring both workforce safety and operational excellence. The tangible impact of Jack’s work is undeniable. The most notable example is the work on isolation competence, which has enabled an 18% reduction in isolation irregularities, significantly enhancing safety for frontline workers.
Jack’s drive and commitment has transformed E&P competence and delivered incredible improvements in safety, performance and sustainability. He is a truly deserving candidate for this award, embodying the very best in industry leadership and innovation in the field of learning and development.
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Learning and Development team Wales & Western
Company Name
Network Rail
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The team has demonstrated commitment to talent development within the rail industry, with a particular focus on frontline construction services. Their innovative and compassionate approach to workforce growth has significantly enhanced skills, leadership capability, and resilience across the region.
At the core of their success is the development and implementation of Leading Through Change course— this is aimed at Support, Train, Retain, Inspire, Value, Empower — a bespoke training and development programme tailored for construction teams working in rail infrastructure. Leading Through Change was designed in direct response to the evolving needs of the frontline workforce, ensuring that training goes beyond compliance to deliver real value in practice and people development.
Leading Through Change offers a modular approach, combining technical and behavioural training for operatives, Technicians, Apprentices ,supervisors, and managers. It includes:
Soft skill upskilling in to support railway construction and maintenance
Safety-critical operations and standards refreshers
Leadership and decision-making under pressure
Mental health awareness and suicide prevention
Career development pathways and structured mentoring
Unlike generic programmes, this programme is delivered via blended learning — combining classroom training, online modules, and on-site coaching to make it accessible and relevant to those in physically demanding roles. Real-time mentoring has become a key feature, allowing rising talent to be supported and guided by experienced peers.
The programme has already led to measurable improvements in workforce capability. Many frontline staff have progressed into more senior roles, and teams have reported increased confidence, improved safety behaviours, and stronger collaboration. The team’s work has also reduced attrition by giving staff a clearer view of their future in the industry.
Beyond formal training, the team has been instrumental in embedding a culture of care and well-being, especially around mental health. In construction services, where staff may encounter traumatic events such as suicide within our own team, the team ensures that leaders are trained to respond with empathy and support. Mental health modules are now integrated into all training levels, empowering staff to recognise signs of distress and access appropriate help.
Crucially, this team is known for going the extra mile. When regional teams face emotional or operational strain, they step in with practical and emotional support. Their hands-on presence following difficult incidents has built deep trust across the workforce. They don’t just train teams — they stand by them.
This nomination recognises a team that is not only equipping frontline construction staff with the tools to succeed today but is building a resilient, skilled, and empowered workforce for tomorrow. Through mentoring, and holistic development, they are setting a new standard for talent development in the rail industry — one that values people as much as performance.
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Mark & Natalie - Leading With...
Company Name
Transport for Wales
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
"Nominees: Mark and Natalie
Why They Deserve This Award
Mark and Natalie have transformed leadership development at Transport for Wales through their design and delivery of the Leading With programme - a two-year, behaviourally driven leadership journey that has impacted over 310 colleagues across all directorates, including Pullman Rail and Welsh Government.
Their work goes far beyond traditional training. Through a blend of Insights Discovery, coaching, and practical leadership modules, they’ve created a programme that is not only engaging and inclusive, but also transformational.
What Participants Say
“I learned more about myself — not just my strengths and weaknesses, but how they play out in real situations and relationships. This course held up a mirror in the gentlest way.”
“This is the best quality leadership programme I’ve ever done. It’s helped me understand others, work better with different personalities, and improve my relationships at work.”
“It was eye-opening to see how different people respond to challenges based on their preferences. It really was a learning journey.”
Impact Highlights
310 attendees over 4 years
7–12% of participants promoted each year
157 female participants, supporting gender equity in leadership
Participants from every business area, including operational and corporate roles
ILM-accredited pathways and personalised coaching embedded
A growing community of reflective, inclusive leaders
What Makes Mark and Natalie Exceptional
They tailor learning to every individual, ensuring all behavioural types feel seen and supported.
They’ve created a safe, inclusive space for self-reflection and growth.
They model the very leadership behaviours they teach - empathy, clarity, and empowerment.
They’ve built a programme that’s sustainable, scalable, and deeply human.
Mark and Natalie are not just delivering a programme - they are shaping the future of leadership at Transport for Wales. Their work is a shining example of how learning and development can drive cultural change, personal growth, and organisational excellence." said Gemma Southgate.
"Mark’s passion and commitment to learning and development has set a new standard for how our organisation invests in our people. He has dedicated himself to developing our internal leadership programme alongside Natalie to create a safe non judgmental environment to not only enhance skills and knowledge but also empower individuals to understand the impact of their behaviours as leaders. Through his vision, Mark and Natalie have delivered a leadership programme that has been transformative for participants and the wider organisation, so much so that external participants are encouraged to attend.
At the heart of the success is the belief that leadership is about people and understanding behaviours to develop confidence, building self-awareness, and encourage growth. The leading with programme goes beyond technical skills to focus on behaviours, emotional intelligence, and reflection, helping individuals understand how they affect others and how they can adapt to inspire, motivate, and lead with integrity. By creating space for learning and reflection, Mark has enabled participants to unlock their potential and take ownership of their development.
Influencing a culture of true reflection and accountability for self, the difference in our people through his and Natalie co style of delivery has meant a transformative impact to our aspiring and current leadership groups. Many of our leaders through Natalie and Marks support have grown in confidence to take on new roles and responsibilities at work demonstrating the behavioural impact of creating a culture of empowering others." said Rhian Wicks.
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Robert Mickleburgh
Company Name
GTR
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
This individual has been nominated for his outstanding commitment in helping apprentice train drivers. Personally, he has helped me build my confidence whilst driving, enhance my skills by effectively challenging me through questioning and sharing his extensive railway knowledge that will aid me in preparation for my ICA in the next few months to come. When I've felt particularly anxious or lacking confidence, Rob has stepped in, provided reassurance that he will support me until I feel confident and ready. Additionally, he praises me in recognition for my efforts and hard work - which I very much appreciate.
I feel extremely lucky to have Rob as my Driving Instructor. He is very personable, easy to get along with, keen and enthusiastic about helping individuals become the very best (and safe) drivers.
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Tim Ward
Company Name
ALSTOM Transport UK
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
We are proud to nominate Tim Ward, Head of Tender Procurement at Alstom, for the Learning, Development & Investing in People Award.
We believe there are people who lead, and then there are people who truly build. We’ve thought about how to best describe Tim’s contribution, and words can be limiting when writing about someone we have so much gratitude and admiration for. Tim has outstandingly contributed to the growth and development of procurement professionals across Alstom at both UK level and across Europe, where he has played a pivotal role in developing people and investing time and knowledge.
Tim has shaped the Procurement Graduate Scheme in Alstom. From active participation in defining a development plan that extended beyond the theoretical level, Tim was also involved in all the assessments and selections, also introduced each process in the development of new talent, followed by careful allocation of the most suitable project to each new joiner, perfectly chosen to enrich their knowledge and gradually grow, from both professional and soft skills. He noticed where there was room for improvement and supported the creation of tailored learning journeys for every graduate, and this meant not only theoretical knowledge, but also real-life advice.
Nonetheless, it was key to have a mentor and manager who led by example, and Tim has always done this. He consistently inspires with his work ethic and strategic approaches, while those around him also learnt by observing his work.
This way, graduates benefitted from hands-on experience supported by Tim’s guidance, where real involvement in tenders encouraged critical thinking, independence and confidence development. Then, testament to Tim’s exceptional mentorship, they got to witness their first wins and build their own way of working.
Tim has also contributed to the development of senior and experienced colleagues, this way advancing the tendering role in Europe. That allowed even more stakeholders from various countries to benefit from his work, not only directly but also indirectly. He inclusively supported the growth of different procurement professionals with patience and generosity, adapting his mentoring to complement people’s personalities and values which he always noticed. Thus, his mentoring reached far beyond the UK, being trusted, followed and recognised by different departments.
Tim made space for learning and investing in people, even when deadlines were very tight. Thanks to Tim, many of us have grown not just professionally, but personally. He’s helped shape a diverse and inclusive team that’s confident, capable, and ready to take on challenges. The team spirit he has fostered was built with great collaboration, support and encouragement he always offered. It’s a space where people feel valued, heard, and motivated to contribute, and it reflects Tim’s belief that strong teams are built on trust, openness, and shared purpose.
We are fortunate to have someone like Tim and wholeheartedly believe that great mentorship and investment in people’s development needs to be rewarded and Tim is more than deserving of this award.
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Trevor Boyd & Team
Company Name
Network Rail
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
The team has shown outstanding commitment to developing talent within the rail industry, with a clear focus on frontline construction services. Their innovative and compassionate approach to workforce growth has strengthened skills, leadership capability, and resilience across the region.
At the heart of their success is Leading Through Change—a bespoke training and development programme designed to Support, Train, Retain, Inspire, Value, and Empower. Created in direct response to the evolving needs of the frontline workforce, the programme moves beyond compliance to deliver real value in both practice and people development.
Leading Through Change offers a modular pathway that combines technical and behavioural training for operatives, technicians, apprentices, supervisors, and managers. Key elements include:
Soft-skill development to enhance communication and collaboration
Safety-critical standards and operational refreshers
Leadership and decision-making under pressure
Mental-health awareness and suicide-prevention training
Career-development planning and structured mentoring
Unlike generic courses, the programme uses a blended format—classroom sessions, online modules, and on-site coaching—making learning accessible and relevant to physically demanding roles. Real-time mentoring pairs rising talent with experienced colleagues, creating immediate, practical support.
The impact is already clear. Frontline staff have progressed into more senior roles, teams report greater confidence and stronger collaboration, and safety behaviours have measurably improved. By offering clear career pathways, the team has also reduced staff turnover and increased retention of skilled workers.
Beyond formal training, the team has embedded a culture of care and well-being, particularly around mental health. In an environment where traumatic incidents, including suicides, can occur, they ensure leaders are trained to respond with empathy and provide support. Mental-health modules are now included at every training level, helping staff recognise signs of distress and access appropriate help.
Crucially, this team is known for going beyond training. When regional teams face emotional or operational strain, they step in with practical assistance and visible leadership. Their hands-on presence following difficult incidents has built deep trust and reinforced a culture where people feel valued and supported.
This nomination recognises a team that is not only equipping frontline construction staff with the skills to succeed today, but also building a resilient and empowered workforce for tomorrow. Through mentoring, holistic development, and a genuine commitment to well-being, they are setting a new benchmark for talent development in the rail industry—one that values people every bit as much as performance
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Victoria O'Reilly
Company Name
GTR
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Since joining GTR in 2016 Victoria has always put her people first and ensuring they work to the strengths and excel in the workplace. We joined together, and Victoria was my Team Leader. She believed I would also excel in being a supervisor and took me on the journey with her. Constantly sharing her experience and talking through the process of decision making and people management with me. If I asked her a question - instead of answering, she would ask me how I would deal with it then give me feedback - helping me improve my knowledge and confidence. She continues to support me to this day. Now a manager myself, I have seen first-hand how Victoria continues investing in her people. She sees small things in people that she identifies as strengths and gives them the confidence to push forward. Always keen to listen to people ideas and other alternatives to completing tasks. She is a advocate for further learning and always putting her staff on courses and development days. Victoria also arranges shadow days for her staff that are interested in other departments as she recognises people need to breath and widen their skills. This includes herself and is always happy to take people under her wing as a Station manager and talk through the role, and show people around. I have also seen, during recruitment processes, where Victoria has interviewed someone, that may not be suitable for a station role - however instead of just leaving it at a declined application - she sees that they have specific skills and would excel in another areas of the business. She then worked with those departments and recruitment to open up opportunities to those individuals. This is all extra work Victoria choses to take on, as well as running a Station, because she wants to see people progress and reach great heights.
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15
LIFESAVER AWARD
This prestigious award honours individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary courage and quick thinking in saving lives or preventing serious harm within the rail industry. Whether responding to an emergency or taking proactive steps to prevent a tragedy, nominees will have shown exceptional dedication to the safety and well-being of passengers, colleagues, and the public. This award celebrates the heroes of the railway who exemplify bravery, responsibility, and resilience.
Example job titles in this category:
Everyone!
You can see all the past winners here.
Daniel Cook
Company Name
Southeastern
Photo
Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Whilst on duty at Margate Dan saved a persons life not once but twice in the space of 30 minutes, once when he stopped a male from going trackside and then after calming that situation down he had the empathy and compassion to follow the male off of station property and located the male in a nearby high rise block of flats on the 18th floor. On finding the male he had already managed to break open a large window and began to climb out of it with a sheer drop from the 18th floor to the ground on the beach front. Dan who has a huge fear of heights grabbed the male and pulled him out of the window and back into the building to safety. Not only did this undoubtedly save the males life but also demonstrated great courage on dans part due to his fears and highlights his care for others.
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Daniel Udoakah
Company Name
Network Rail
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
August 18, 2021. Daniel Udoakah and team saved a member of public from committing suicide on trackside of St Mildreds bridge ( Hither Green ) with line speed 70mph. A single phone call to the controlling signal box of the area. This is an 'emergency call', stop all train movement between Hither Green and Grove Park. That action gave way for emergency services to arrive at the scene and talk the individual out of it. Months later, the individual recognised my team in traffic and expressed gratitude.
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Dorian Jacobs
Company Name
Carlisle Support Services
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
"Dorian Jacobs demonstrated exceptional professionalism and composure during a critical medical emergency at Hackney Downs Station.
When alerted to a seriously ill passenger experiencing a seizure on Platform 2, Dorian immediately followed protocol—leaving his gates open to maintain passenger flow and heading directly to the platform. He worked to stabilise the passenger as best as possible, liaised with emergency services, and ensured the safety of others on the crowded platform and stairways.
His quick thinking, calm leadership, and dedication to passenger safety were instrumental in managing the situation effectively and preventing further risk.
Dorian’s actions reflect the highest standards of care, responsibility, and teamwork—he is a true lifesaver." said Louise Harrison.
"Dorian Jacobs is the very embodiment of customer service excellence and an invaluable member of the team. He consistently goes above and beyond—not only for our customers but also for his colleagues. Wherever Dorian is present, operations run seamlessly, morale is high, and both staff and passengers feel reassured by his presence. His absence is felt deeply; staff and customers alike express genuine disappointment when he is not on duty, a true testament to the impact he makes.
While Dorian possesses all the credentials and qualities to be an SDM, his passion for the frontline is undeniable. He thrives in this space because it is where he can directly support people—something he truly loves and excels at.
I had the privilege of personally witnessing a moment that speaks volumes about his character and professionalism: Dorian saved a life. In what could have been a chaotic and overwhelming situation, he remained calm, decisive, and completely focused on what needed to be done. His leadership, composure, and teamwork in that critical moment demonstrated exactly what it means to be a true leader.
To say that Dorian deserves recognition would be an understatement. Even if he were to receive this award, it would only begin to reflect the immense value of his contributions to the London Overground. His dedication, professionalism, and humanity set a standard that inspires us all" said Osman Samantar.
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Dorothy Omovbude
Company Name
Carlisle Support Services
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Dorothy Omovbude displayed extraordinary courage, compassion, and professionalism during a critical incident involving a distressed young person at Homerton Station.
Faced with a potential suicide attempt, Dorothy took immediate control of the situation—calmly issuing instructions to delay trains and contacting emergency services. While managing the operational response, she remained by the individual’s side, offering comfort and dignity in their most vulnerable moment. She even asked members of the public to use their jackets to shield the individual, ensuring they were treated with respect and care.
Her actions were not only life-saving but deeply human. In an incredibly stressful situation, Dorothy showed empathy, leadership, and grace—qualities that reflect the very best of our values.
Dorothy is a true lifesaver. Her bravery and compassion made a profound difference, and she deserves the highest recognition.
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Douglas Bayley
Company Name
Amey Rail
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Douglas Bayley works for Amey Rail as a Programme Manager. He has worked in the rail industry since he left school 20 years ago, joining Amey in 2021. Douglas volunteers for Harbour, a charity in Scotland.
Harbour support people and families affected by drug and alcohol addiction, poor mental health, trauma, and social isolation. Providing a wide range of peer-leading support across Ayrshire, from one-to-one interventions to group work, crisis response through their Community Support Vehicle.
Two years ago, Douglas began volunteering with them, starting out in the Community Support Vehicle (CSV). This service plays a vital role in helping some of the most vulnerable people in our community, including those experiencing homelessness, fleeing violence, or escaping abusive relationships. Being able to step into that role and offer people practical support during moments of crisis has been both humbling and life changing for Douglas.
From the beginning of Douglas’s journey, the aim has been simple: to give back what was once given to him. Harbour provided Douglas with a safe space to rebuild, and Douglas wanted to ensure others had the same opportunity.
Douglas became involved with the Men Only Time (MOT) group in Irvine, Ayrshire which supports men in the local area. Many of these men, have lived through addiction, poor mental health, or social isolation.
The MOT group is about more than just recovery; it’s about building trust, confidence, and community. Week by week, Douglas has seen men grow stronger, reconnect with their families, and begin to believe in themselves again. Being part of that process is a privilege and heavily reinforces his belief that peer support can change lives.
Most recently, Douglas has taken on a new role at the New Horizon hospital group within Crosshouse Hospital where he supports patients during their stay and helps them prepare for the difficult transition back into the community. This period can be overwhelming, filled with uncertainty and vulnerability. By being present—whether that’s through a conversation, a visit, or ongoing support once they leave the hospital.
This role also involves going into prisons and speaking with individuals to give them hope that they too can turn their lives around as Douglas recognizes there is always an underlying condition whether it may be addiction, trauma or poor mental health. These can be challenging at times, however with Douglas’s own experience and skill set he has learned through volunteering with Harbour, he is equipped to carry this role out.
Fundraising is an important part of the life of the charity. Douglas recently participated in an event where the team slept rough outside for 24 hours at Dam Park in Ayr. A total of £30,000 was raised to help those in need.
Volunteering with Harbour has allowed Douglas to channel his lived experience into something meaningful, turning the hardest parts of his past into strengths that can benefit others. The most rewarding part of the voluntary work is seeing individuals grow along with their families.
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Friday Ashwobie
Company Name
Vital
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Friday, one of our dedicated Safeguarding Patrollers based at Hyndland Train Station, has demonstrated extraordinary compassion, vigilance, and professionalism in his role.
In June of this year, Friday intervened with a vulnerable young woman at the station. Through his calm presence, genuine conversation, and supportive approach, he was able to engage with her and ensure she left the station safely and in better spirits.
Just two days later, the young woman returned with her mother to thank Friday personally. She shared that her original intention that day had been to end her life, but Friday’s kindness and willingness to listen had distracted her from that tragic path. Instead, she chose to reconnect with her family and is now receiving ongoing support for her mental health.
This is an incredibly powerful example of the profound difference Safeguarding Patrollers make every day. While much of their impact may never be visible—preventing harm before it happens—this instance highlights the life-saving effect of Friday’s actions. His humanity, empathy, and dedication embody the very purpose of the Safeguarding Patroller role, and his intervention quite literally changed the course of a young woman’s life.
Friday’s actions deserve the highest recognition and are a testament to the life-changing power of care, compassion, and vigilance within our rail network.
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Henry Emekwe
Company Name
Scobic Limited
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
On 29th May 2025, between 19:30 and 20:00, during a Revenue Protection Push Back shift at Upper Holloway station, Henry Emekwe demonstrated quick thinking and bravery that directly contributed to saving a life.
While his colleague was restraining a distressed passenger in a powered wheelchair who was attempting to move towards the tracks, Henry reacted instantly. From the opposite platform, he ran across and positioned himself on the platform edge, raising his arms to signal the approaching train to stop. His clear and decisive intervention ensured that the driver received the warning in time, and the train was safely brought to a halt.
This action was critical: without Henry’s immediate response, the train may not have been able to stop, and the outcome could have been devastating. His presence of mind under pressure, combined with his willingness to take responsibility in a life-threatening situation, demonstrates the highest standards of professionalism and courage.
Thanks to his swift and decisive actions, alongside his colleague, a vulnerable passenger’s life was saved that evening. Henry’s vigilance, teamwork, and commitment to protecting life fully embody the spirit of the Life Saver Award.
We are proud to nominate Henry Emekwe for this recognition, in honour of his quick thinking, professionalism, and bravery in the face of a critical emergency.
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Hugh Irvine
Company Name
Amey Rail
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Hugh Irvine works for Amey Rail as a Building Surveyor undertaking surveys of all types of buildings on behalf of Network Rail across Scotland. Hugh has worked for Amey for since 2022.
On 30th October 2024 Hugh saved a stranger’s life on the rail network.
Hugh was working on his own undertaking a survey of Livingstone South station, west of Edinburgh. In Hugh’s own words, ‘I was doing a survey of Livingstone South station when I noticed a rucksack and a pair of trainers on the platform but couldn’t see anyone around. I don’t know what made me look but I poked my head out and looked up and down the track and saw somebody sat on the rail 200 yards away.’
Hugh quickly took the initiative and telephoned the Signaller and asked for all trains movements to be blocked in all directions and grant him emergency access onto the track. Hugh felt that he would be comfortable in trying to diffuse the situation. Hugh saw a young boy, perhaps 12 or 13 years old. He approached cautiously, speaking softly and calmly as he didn’t want him to feel threatened.
Hugh knew that all rail traffic was stopped so his only concern was the young boy. He struck up a conversation with him by asking if he could sit beside him, making sure that he sat on the opposite side to him to prevent him running off up track again. Hugh could tell that he was like a lost soul and tried to get him to open up.
One thing he said that still sticks in Hugh’s mind was did Hugh have kids? Hugh replied, ‘yes, two boys’, and the young boy said, ‘make sure they never end up in this situation’. The young boy’s phone kept going off and Hugh could see it was his mum phoning, which he kept declining.
When the emergency services arrived the British Transport Police were able to lift the boy to his feet and get him back to the platform. They told Hugh he was known to them and was a troubled young man. Hugh was very shaken on the day and kept going over the events in his head.
Hugh knew that he’d done the right thing. Everything was by the book, and Hugh had been a lifesaver that day. Hugh’s COSS training meant he knew exactly what to do – but wish that he’d never needed to.
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Lydia Sheppard
Company Name
Transport for Wales
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
It is with great pleasure that I write this supporting statement for Lydia Sheppard to receive the 2025 Lifesaver Award.
I believe that Lydia would be the best choice for this year’s award due to three recent suicidal person interventions in a very short time period that she was involved in that undoubtedly saved the lives of all three persons.
Lydia is an integral part of my team since she joined the railway in 2022 as a trainee Conductor from the Welsh Ambulance service. She brought to the role her passion for
people in general, and has a lot of transferable skills that fit in well on the railway, such as crisis management and being able to engage critical thinking.
Unfortunately, due to patient confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements she is unable to discuss much of what she has experienced as a paramedic to me, but it is clear traumatic incidents have had an impact on her but she uses those experiences to benefit others such as her colleagues who have learned a great deal about the importance of talking to each other following stressful incidents.
She recently took part in a short video with our communications team that was shared with our colleagues as well as local media where she detailed her recent interventions and the impact it had on her and the implications if she hadn't reacted.
To support this nomination, I can supply the video and supporting statements from our local BTP inspector as well as the incident reports for each event.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ofpfvKJo...
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Mike Baker
Company Name
Transport for Wales
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Mike was the guard on a train approaching Pontypridd and became aware of a distressed female who was being the subject of unnecessary attention from an agressive male on board. Mike weighed up the situation and although both parties had been drinking, identified that the females fear was unusual in this situation. He activated his body worn camera, intervened and put himself between the male and female. He asked the male to leave the service. The male became aggressive and threatened Mike who stood by his decision and stood his ground. The BTP were informed and Mike departed with the female still on board. He found out that she was fleeing domestic abuse and the perpetrator was the male he had protected her from. The male was later arrested and charged with a long campaign of domestic violence with the case drawing local media attention. Mike’s bravery was praised by the Detective involved in the case for intervening. In speaking to Mike afterwards he was aware of the threat but considered the females safety of paramount importance and was keen to provide statements and attend court if required. There has been an increased awareness of the impacts of domestic abuse in the media of late and I am incredibly proud to be his manager and of his decision making and actions in this incident.
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PC Craig Jackson and PC Rachel Webb
Company Name
British Transport Police
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
On Wednesday 12th February 2025, PC Jackson and Webb were on mobile patrol in the Greenock area of Inverclyde, conducting line of route checks. As they were driving between stations, they became aware of a male lying on the pavement who appeared to be injured.
Upon checking on the male, they discovered that he had been stabbed to the back and was losing a significant amount of blood. Rachel and Craig began to administer first aid to the male, updated BX with all the required information and requested Ambulance and Police Scotland.
Thinking quickly, Rachel and Craig had activated their Body Worn Video from the moment they got out of the van which allowed the scene and initial disclosures to be captures to assist Police Scotland detectives. Whilst administering first aid, they tried to obtain as much information as possible from the victim to assist with identifying any suspect or if there was another locus to be secured.
On the arrival of Ambulance and Police Scotland crews, Rachel and Craig provided a comprehensive handover and thereafter began to assist in setting up cordons to minimise disruption to the crime scene.
The victim was thereafter conveyed to hospital where there was a ‘threat to life’ due to the injuries sustained. This has now been removed, and the victim is expected to make a full recovery.
Police Scotland have since been in touch with BTP with extensive praise for Rachel and Craig, wished to pass on their thanks for the swift and effective actions carried out and advised that the BWV footage has been of extreme beneficial use to them. It is believed the actions of Rachel and Craig saved the victims life.
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Steven Jones / Daniel Edwards
Company Name
London Northwestern & West Midlands Railways
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
I would like to nominate Steven Jones and Dan Edwards jointly for the Life Saver Award following how they dealt with a suicidal female at Longport station on Saturday evening.
Dan was completing revenue duties on the train when he arrived at Longport station and noticed a couple on the platform when completing dispatch duties. It was clear something wasn’t right, and the girl appeared vulnerable.
The driver, Steven Jones, had noticed that something wasn’t right and was already on the phone to the signaller. Dan was by the driving cab and heard the female say that she wanted to kill herself and discerned that the male was in fact her carer.
Dan discreetly advised the driver by typing into his phone what he had heard about the female’s state of mind. Dan kept Control up to date and Steve managed to get the girl onboard to chat with her. After some time, the care home staff arrived and took the girl away with the police in attendance.
This would have been a challenging and emotional time for both Steve and Dan and I believe they dealt with this incident in a proactive and sympathetic manner and so should be rewarded for this. Things could have worked out differently for this vulnerable passenger and potentially others had they not intervened in the way that they did.
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Toby Prescott
Company Name
GB Railfreight
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Toby Prescott, Train Manager for GB Railfreight at Ferme Park in North London, demonstrated exceptional awareness and compassion during a critical incident on 19 March 2025, embodying the values of bravery, responsibility, and resilience celebrated by the Lifesaver Award.
While working near Chettisham Crossing close to Ely, Toby noticed a vulnerable woman sitting beside the tracks. Recognising the potential danger, he acted immediately—safely stopping his locomotive and approaching her to check if she was alright. Realising she was in distress, Toby invited her into the cab and took her to Ely station, where she could receive further support and assistance.
Toby’s intervention came at a crucial moment, as another train was due to pass the location shortly after. His quick thinking and willingness to act almost certainly prevented a tragedy and ensured the woman’s safety and wellbeing. Throughout the incident, Toby remained calm, compassionate, and focused, providing reassurance and practical help in a difficult situation.
Toby’s actions exemplify the highest standards of care and responsibility within the rail industry. His ability to spot a potential crisis, respond decisively, and support someone in need demonstrates the qualities of a true lifesaver.
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Tom Kendall
Company Name
Avanti West Coast
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Whilst working on 1A71, a passenger suffered a cardiac arrest after leaving Manchester Piccadilly. On the approach to Stockport, Tom got a crew call from the catering team to say a gentleman had collapsed and was having a heart attack. Tom contacted the signal to ensure a quick arrival into Stockport where the ambulance service was due to arrive.
On securing the train, Tom ran down to coach F to perform CPR on the passenger. The defib was brought down by the Train Manager and two shocks of the defib were used. After about fifteen minutes of CPR they managed to get a pulse back and shortly after the ambulance service arrived. After their assessment they confirmed that he had “ROSC” which stands for return of spontaneous circulation. In essence, he was alive.
Tom’s calm manner, professionalism and commitment to safety played a vital part in saving this person’s life. He went above and beyond his role as a train driver and his actions will have been crucial to the positive outcome that was achieved that day.
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Tony Jackson / Network Rail Wessex - Senior Network Delivery Manager
Company Name
Network Rail
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
On the evening of 24th December when the majority of staff had left the building for the Christmas break, Tony discovered a member of cleaning staff collapsed and unconscious at the end of the corridor. He ran into the control room requesting assistance, before immediately returning to the collapsed staff member, contacting an ambulance and performing CPR on them. He co-ordinated additional staff to go to the security gates to allow ambulance access to site and direct them to his location, and then continued CPR until they arrived. Upon ambulance arrival they informed Tony that without his intervention, the staff member would almost certainly have passed away, and it was only because of him that they were able to get the relevant treatment in hospital and make a full recovery. Tony continued to work the rest of his night shift before going home to spend Christmas Day with his family.
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15
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
This prestigious award honours an individual who has dedicated their career to the rail industry, leaving a lasting impact through their contributions. Whether through pioneering projects, safety improvements, or shaping the industry’s future, the recipient embodies excellence, dedication, and service. This award celebrates a career of remarkable achievements that have influenced colleagues, passengers, and the wider rail community.
Example job titles in this category:
Everyone!
You can see all the past winners here.
Alison Smith
Company Name
Network Rail
Photo
Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Nominee: Ali Smith
Submitted by: Felicity Wakefield & Amira Brown
For over 30 years, Alison Smith has been a cornerstone of the rail industry, embodying the values of excellence, dedication, and service that deserve consideration for the Lifetime Achievement Award. Her career spans a remarkable breadth of roles, each marked by a commitment to improving safety, mentoring others, and shaping the future of rail.
Ali began her career as a Ticket Office Clerk and quickly progressed to Safety Manager in Edinburgh. In 1996, she moved to London and became the Duty Station Manager at Kings Cross Station. Her reputation for straight-talking and passion for service became evident as she took on increasingly complex roles, including leading the National Level Crossing Risk Reduction Team and her leadership of the R&D delivery team. Under her guidance, the R&D team evolved into a close knit, high functioning unit capable of prioritising and delivering transformative projects, many of which have won awards and delivered lasting benefits across the railway. She ensured that technologies were not only developed but also embedded into operational practice, driving real-world change.
In Ali's current role she is now playing a critical role in the maturation of the in-house Occupational Health team, helping to shape its structure, ethos, and delivery model. Her influence has ensured that health and wellbeing of the team are treated as strategic priorities, and she has sought to understand what the service needs to deliver what the business requires and set about putting those plans into action.
Beyond her technical achievements, Ali’s legacy is deeply personal. She has mentored countless colleagues, adapting her leadership style to meet individual needs. Her guidance and support has meant that a number of her reports have been shortlisted for prestigious awards, such as the APM Project Manager of the year. As a neurodiverse woman, I’ve often found traditional workplaces challenging, but Ali ensures I have what I need to be productive and successful. Her empathy and flexibility create an environment where everyone can thrive.
Ali’s influence extends far beyond her job title—she is a mentor, a leader, and a trusted voice in the rail community. Her dedication has never wavered, and her contributions continue to resonate across the organisation. She has forged a career while raising a family and has been a shining light for young women who want a career in rail.
We believe Ali exemplifies the spirit of the Lifetime Achievement Award and hope this nomination serves as a small reflection of the immense respect and admiration she has earned throughout her career.
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Alison Thompson
Company Name
Amey
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Leaving a lasting impact
Alison has dedicated over 36 years to the rail industry, driving true diversity and inclusion to leave a lasting impact, keeping people at the focus of everything she does.
As Infrastructure Management Director on the renowned Core Valley Lines (CVL), Alison upheld her responsibilities diligently. Under her guidance, the CVL went through the largest transformation, with safety always being a top priority to keep her teams, suppliers and stakeholders safe during major railway works.
Alison is no stranger to witnessing fatal accidents on the railway. Unfortunately, on one tragic day, she lost dear team members. Though she was pained and shaken herself, she made visits to the families affected and supported them through their bereavements. In Wayne Brigden’s (Business Director of Transport Infrastructure at Amey) own words:
“Alison is fiercely protective of her people, who are at the centre of everything she does. In the wake of some truly horrific incidents throughout her career, she has shown unbelievable leadership and compassion, sometimes at great personal sacrifice. She has used these losses to continue to advocate for the safety and wellbeing of her teams, implementing ‘no Red Zone working’ as a standard on the CVL project, demonstrating her care for others not just through her words but her actions.”
As well as employing this new standard, Alison persistently maintains safety as a focus through regular discussions, briefings, and events for the supply chain and stakeholders. She has introduced several new ways of working to reduce safety risks, including using drones for surveying hard to reach areas, removing the need for people to access infrastructure, more mechanised weed spraying, and geofencing to improve protection for those working alongside the railway.
Dedication
Alison’s passion for mentoring is central to her character and is just one way in which she goes beyond her duties to support young engineers and colleagues within the rail community. She knowledgeably applies her 20 years of mentoring experience to empower people to reach their full potential and develop into confident leaders.
Alison’s passion for mentoring is a key focus, leading by example and striving to unlock new potential to shape the future of the industry. She is known for her compassionate but strong leadership, guiding her team through both huge successes and crisis.
Remarkable achievements
Alison’s remarkable achievements are many, but one that stands out the most is in the way she devotes time and patience to support and encourage others. Alison wants others to learn, grow and achieve. A courageous leader, a wise mentor, and a compassionate human being, Alison is a great asset to our team and our community. In her own words:
“The rail industry is a people-centric industry where no single person can drive change or improvement alone. Time invested in people, often in small ways, can lead to significant change. This is why I have remained in the rail industry for over 36 years; thanks to the support and encouragement I have received from so many colleagues.”
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Chris Chatfield
Company Name
London Northwestern & West Midlands Railways
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Born in Ilfracombe, North Devon, Chris grew up near a railway embankment, which sparked his early interest in railways. By age three or four, he knew he wanted to work in the industry.
When Chris graduated from Birmingham University in the mid-1980s and initially passed an interview with British Rail, but further opportunities with them and London Underground fell through during a recession. So, he began an 18-month civil engineering training scheme with West Midlands County Council, later completing it with Birmingham City Council.
He qualified as a Chartered Civil Engineer and moved into project management for highway design. With this experience, he secured a promotion to work on the Midland Metro, where he led infrastructure delivery for the first line between Birmingham Snow Hill and Wolverhampton from 1991 to 1999.
This marked the start of his railway career. Chris oversaw everything from tram stops and depots to electrification and ticketing systems, transforming a planned route into a network serving 6 million passengers annually. As the UK light rail sector was emerging, he also travelled across Europe to study best practices in operations, maintenance, and technical standards.
At this time, the newly launched Cross City line in Birmingham was still running diesel multiple units dating back to the 1950s and early 1960s. Electrification was on the horizon and Chris was involved in procuring the Class 323 fleet. In 1992, he accompanied West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority councillors on a technical visit to the South Yorkshire Supertram, followed by a visit to the Class 323 production line in Leeds. The new trains entered service on 7 February 1994.
Chris then commuted on the trains for the next 30 years (and worked for Network Rail in the meantime). He joined West Midlands Trains in 2022 and two years later found himself responsible for withdrawing the Class 323 units to make way for our brand new Class 730 fleet. Each time we introduced a pair of new Class 730 units, a pair of Class 323 units was taken out, moved from Soho to Wolverton for de-branding, and then on to Allerton for future use.
The opportunity was also taken to plan and run a ‘Farewell Rail Tour’ in September 2024, over many of the routes the units had previously worked on, which carried over 300 passengers and raised over £22,000 for West Midlands Trains’ corporate charities.
At least 17 of the 26 Class 323 units released are already seeing further service, being gradually re-painted into Northern Rail livery for use in the Northern Rail fleet (which had previously operated the remaining Class 323s not based in the West Midlands).
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Darren Ward
Company Name
West Midlands Trains (retired, contracting for charity with Freightliner & Network Rail)
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Darren Ward has dedicated his life to the railway industry & to the service of others. Over a career spanning 38 years, Darren has held senior operational roles across TOCs and FOCs, where he has earned a reputation for calm leadership, operational excellence, and a deep commitment to public service. Though now retired, Darren continues to be an active and influential figure - supporting charitable causes, mentoring colleagues, and contributing to the railway community with the same energy and generosity that defined his career - currently contracting work to Freightliner and Network Rail imparting his experience and knowledge in return for charitable donations.
Darren’s professional journey began in the 1980s, and over the years he rose through the ranks from driver to respected Operations Director. He has been instrumental in shaping safer, more efficient railway operations across the UK. Known for his collaborative approach and steady hand, Darren has led teams through complex operational challenges, always with a focus on safety, service, & people. He has been a mentor to many, often taking time to support younger colleagues and share his knowledge generously.
Yet it is Darren’s parallel journey - his lifelong commitment to charitable work - that truly sets him apart. For more than 25 years, Darren has quietly and consistently used his time, energy, and personal resources to support a wide range of causes, particularly those focused on children’s health and welfare, mental health, and railway heritage. His approach has always been hands-on: he doesn’t just support causes, he builds events, brings people together, and leads from the front.
In the past 3 years alone, Darren has raised over £75,000 for the Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust. In an extraordinary act of generosity, Darren donated 6 months of his own salary to the charity in that.
Darren’s passion for cycling has been a powerful vehicle for change. Over the years, he has organised and participated in a series of long-distance rides across the UK & Europe, each one undertaken with purpose & determination. These include 2026: Salisbury to Tours (France), 2025: Eau de Cologne Ride, 2024: Waterloo to Waterloo, 2023: London to Paris, 2022: Coast to Coast, 2018: St Pancras to Saint Pancras. In addition to his cycling efforts, Darren has also been a driving force behind a series of charity railtours, blending his professional expertise with his passion for railway heritage. These include:
• “Screaming Valentas” (2014 & 2018) raising over £20,000 for the 125 Group and supporting the preservation of iconic British rolling stock.
• “Pickering Paxman” (2017) – raising over £34,000 for Railway Children.
• “Worth Valley Wanderer” (2012) - in support of Samaritans.
• “Swanage Samaritan” (2014) – raising funds for mental health support.
• “Mid-Norfolk Marauder” (2011) – in support of Railway Children.
Darren’s impact is not just measured in pounds raised or miles cycled, but in the people he has inspired. He is known for his humility, quiet determination, and his ability to make others feel valued & included.
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David Tunley
Company Name
Network Rail
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David is a fantastic ambassador for the rail industry. Having been in the industry for over 20 years, he has a well-deserved reputation for supporting colleagues from new entrants to those who are more established. He is so generous with his time and willing to share his vast knowledge and experience, whilst respectfully challenging. He is a true leader and does so with empathy, honesty and a dash of humour. Never one to turn away from a challenge, he has refined his skills in a range of roles and teams from performance to asset management and is currently the Head of Business Planning and Strategy for Network Rail's Wales and Western region. David is a mentor to many, both formally and informally. David is always a guiding light in what can be a challenging and complex industry. He is an absolute delight and I personally feel incredibly fortunate to have benefited from his tutelage, compassion and understanding. I hope this message has in some way captured the essence of someone who continues to make a lasting impact on the railway community.
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Denise Bloom
Company Name
GTR (Southern)
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Denise joined the railway back in 1979 as a young mother, although she claimed this was only for 6 months, her quick progression, from platform, to guard to driver showed her determination to carve out a successful career while managing motherhood. This balance shows her strong work ethic and commitment to providing for her family. The Spice Girls have nothing on Denise - the original "Girl Power" In the 80s and 90s Denise appeared in several media publications, such as Marie-Claire and Woman's Own due to her glamorous looks, long blonde hair, and unlikely career role, the feature showed several women, to which you had to guess their unusual jobs. She also was featured in local newspapers, for breaking the stereotype of a traditional train driver! Denise became one of the first Driving Instructors in the South when she broke her wrist after a trip to India, this did not stop her from working, she took on a role as a production manager based in Redhill depot. (Production Managers are now called Resource Managers), until she was fit to return to driving. In later life unfortunately her husband who she met on the railway, was diagnosed with dementia. Navigating her job and care for her husband requires immense resilience. Denise's ability to face these obstacles, while continuing to contribute to her career is commendable and shows her tremendous strength. She made the difficult decision to go part-time to support him. This adaptability highlights her ability to prioritize her family's needs, whilst maintaining her professional involvement in the railway. By sharing her experience, Denise can help raise awareness about challenges faced by supporting partners with dementia. Her story can motivate discussions about the importance of support systems and resources for anyone in a similar situation. Denise's journey can inspire other working parents and caregivers by showing that it is possible to pursue a career, whilst also being their for loved ones during tough times. She encourages others to seek balance and make decisions that prioritize family without completely sacrificing personal goals. Being involved in the rail industry for such a long time shows her commitment and passion for her work. Such longevity speaks of her resilience and ability to adapt to changes in the industry over the decades. Denise's caring side does not stop at home, a well-respected figure in her train crew depot in Horsham, she has supported colleagues through some difficult times, gaining some very supportive friends. I believe Denise is now one of the longest-serving women in the South.
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John Brown
Company Name
Network Rail
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John is a true railwayman through and through. He’s been on the railway 68 years, starting out with British Rail, in Glasgow, as an indentured apprentice at the tender age of 15. He was a locomotive erector, where he stripped and rebuilt steam locomotives. Usually at the end of their contract, apprentices were made redundant, but John was offered a unique opportunity to transfer to a London based traction running depot. He came to London in 1962 for an interview to become a fitter at Stratford, but at the last minute the position was changed to Cricklewood. He began as a fitter, maintaining diesel multiple units and freight diesel locomotives, whilst being trained up to be an ultrasonic axle tester and wheel lathe operative. In 1964, he was promoted to rolling stock inspector which involved examining trains to ensure everything was ok and overseeing maintenance. He was also a breakdown supervisor, which meant being on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The call out team consisted of 12 people crewing a 75-tonne lifting capacity steam crane. Sadly, on 19 December 1973, his team were called to Ealing rail crash site, where 10 passengers died and 94 were injured. John and other volunteers worked with a 75-tonne crane to recover coaches. After four days of 24-hour activity, crews were sent home for Christmas. John slept for two full days. He then attended a meeting at Reading on Boxing Day to consider all the options for the recovery of the locomotive and they made the final lift on 28 December, just in time for him to join his family in Scotland for the New Year. In the mid 70's he then moved to Ripple Lane where he was a traction and plant engineer, managing 100 staff in five plant depots on c2c and Ripple Lane Traction Maintenance Depot. In the late 80's and early 90's he worked in Stratford and designed the ‘Stratford Sparrow’ which appeared on the on the side of the Railfreight rebranded loco. John is the son and grandson of Cowlairs railwaymen, which makes his project managing youngest son, the fourth generation of railway John Browns. His maternal grandfather was a foundry moulder in Springburn’s North British Loco Works. His middle son Duncan is Route Engineer [E&P] Contact Systems at York, and Duncan’s son Harry is an OHL operative at Doncaster. His wife also works for Network Rail. In the year the railway celebrates its 200th anniversary, John is one of the few people who’s family railway history dates back almost three quarters of that. John himself has worked on steam which few current railwaymen can claim. While most people count down days until their retirement, John is still serving the railway at the age of 83. If that’s not a lifetime achievement, I don’t know what is. He is a real character and deserves some recognition.
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Kathryn Lancaster
Company Name
Alstom
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Kathryn Lancaster has dedicated more than 36 years to the UK rail industry, demonstrating unwavering commitment, strategic brilliance and a deep passion for rail throughout her career. As Communications Manager at Alstom – and previously with its predecessor organisations – Kathryn has been instrumental in shaping the public and internal narrative of one of Britain’s most historic and innovative rail manufacturers and maintenance providers.
Her legacy is defined not only by her leadership in communications – spanning major UK export projects, green propulsion advocacy and internal engagement across 37 sites in the UK and Ireland – but also by her ability to bring people together. This was most powerfully demonstrated earlier this year when Kathryn spearheaded the organisation of The Greatest Gathering at Alstom's Derby Litchurch Lane Works. This landmark event, part of Railway 200 celebrations, opened the doors of Britain’s oldest train factory for the first time in over half a century from 1 to 3 August. The festival welcomed more than 40,000 visitors from around the globe and was the world's largest-ever gathering of historic and modern rail vehicles, with over 140 pieces of rolling stock on display. Kathryn led every logistical aspect of the record-breaking event – from planning and coordination, to infrastructure and execution – ensuring it was not only a celebration of rail’s past, present and future, but also a moment of pride for the entire industry.
Elsewhere, Kathryn’s career has been marked by her ability to connect people and ideas. She has led communications for signature projects including the Electrostar build, the Cairo Monorail and Gautrain export orders, and the Aventra programme – the largest train manufacturing initiative in a generation. Her strategic oversight has ensured that Alstom’s voice remains clear, compelling and trusted across the sector.
Internally, Kathryn supports communications for around 6,000 colleagues across the UK and Ireland. Despite being part of a team of just two, her meticulous planning and inclusive approach ensure that employees feel informed, engaged and valued. Her efforts are reflected in consistently strong staff pulse survey results and a culture of collaboration across Alstom’s 37 sites in the cluster.
Beyond her professional achievements, Kathryn is a mentor and role model. She recently appeared on BBC News’ The Travel Show alongside rail influencer Francis Bourgeois, showcasing the history of Litchurch Lane. She also mentored apprentice Fran Coult, who went on to win Young Professional of the Year at the Rail Business Awards 2024. Her commitment to nurturing talent is matched by her advocacy for diversity and inclusion. Kathryn has championed media training for female leaders, ensured equal representation in promotional materials and created platforms for underrepresented voices to be heard.
Kathryn Lancaster’s career is a testament to resilience, innovation and heart. She has not only achieved excellence in her own field but has paved the way for others to thrive. Her legacy is one of connection, celebration and progress. In rail’s bicentennial year, Kathryn is a truly deserving nominee for the Lifetime Achievement Award
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Louise Rutherford
Company Name
LNER
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It is with immense pride and admiration that we nominate Louise Rutherford for this award. Louise is not only an exceptional colleague—she is the embodiment of everything LNER stands for. Her unwavering dedication, boundless energy, and deep compassion make her a cornerstone of our business and a true inspiration to all who have the privilege of working with her.
From early mornings to late evenings, Louise is ever-present—supporting, guiding, and uplifting our onboard teams and the wider organisation. Her passion for delivering outstanding customer service is matched only by her commitment to her colleagues. She leads with heart, always putting people first, and consistently goes above and beyond to make a difference.
Louise’s impact is felt across LNER. She is a mentor, a friend, and a role model—someone who brings out the best in everyone around her. Her knowledge of the rail industry is vast, and she shares it generously, helping others grow and thrive. When I first joined, her warmth and enthusiasm were a breath of fresh air, and her support has been invaluable ever since.
She is the driving force behind initiatives like “Coupling Up,” which introduces new managers to the realities of customer experience. The feedback from participants speaks volumes:
• “Her knowledge, passion, and energy were truly inspiring.”
• “Louise is the perfect ambassador for our frontline teams.”
• “She’s always smiling, full of energy, and deeply committed to our customers.”
• “Her love for LNER is contagious—she’s funny, passionate, and a true embodiment of our values.”
Louise never seeks the spotlight, yet her influence is undeniable. She remembers every birthday, celebrates every milestone, and ensures that everyone feels seen and valued. Even on her days off, she volunteers her time to support others—offering feedback, sharing insights, and simply being there when it matters most.
If our trains run at 125 mph, Louise operates at 150. Her strength, generosity, and relentless positivity make her an irreplaceable part of LNER. She doesn’t just do her job—she elevates everyone around her.
Louise Rutherford is, without question, one of LNER’s greatest treasures. She lives and breathes our values, and her legacy is one of excellence, empathy, and inspiration. I can think of no one more deserving of this recognition
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Michelle Burningham
Company Name
c2c Railway
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For 13 years, Michelle Burningham devoted her career to c2c and the wider railway industry, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to shape its future. Her service was defined by excellence, dedication and an unshakable commitment to people – both colleagues and passengers. Michelle’s influence extended far beyond her job title; she was a leader, mentor and champion for the values that underpin the best of the rail community.
From the Front Line to Resourcing Leadership
Michelle began her journey on the railway’s front line, serving passengers with professionalism, empathy and a genuine understanding of the challenges they faced. This first-hand experience built the foundation for her later success as Resourcing Manager where she combined operational knowledge with strategic vision. She earned respect not through authority alone but by being authentic, approachable and deeply invested in the wellbeing of those around her.
Shaping the Workforce and the Future
One of Michelle’s most remarkable achievements was recruiting approximately 80% of c2c’s current workforce. Her talent for spotting potential, nurturing skills and fostering loyalty has had a transformative effect on the business. Many of those she recruited credit her with giving them not just a job but a fulfilling career. In this way, Michelle’s legacy lives on in every train crew, station team and support staff member who carries forward her values of service, safety and pride in the railway.
Leadership in Times of Challenge
Michelle was never one to stay behind a desk when challenges arose. During service disruptions she was out on the ground, managing passenger experiences with calm authority and compassion. Her ability to lead under pressure, keep passengers informed and support staff ensured that safety and service standards were never compromised. She turned difficult situations into opportunities to strengthen trust between c2c and the travelling public.
A Relentless Driver of Improvement
Throughout her career Michelle championed continuous improvement. She refined recruitment processes, enhanced onboarding and training and mentored new recruits so they could thrive in their roles. Her high standards and focus on people ensured that both staff morale and passenger satisfaction remained at the heart of c2c’s operations.
An Enduring Legacy
In July 2025 Michelle tragically passed away following a battle with cancer, a loss that left a profound void within the company and the wider rail community. Her legacy endures through her son, now a Shunt Driver at c2c, and through the countless colleagues whose careers she shaped. Michelle’s values – dedication, service and care – continue to influence the way c2c operates today.
Why Michelle Deserves the Lifetime Achievement Award
Michelle Burningham’s career embodies everything this award celebrates: a lifetime of service that left a lasting mark on the railway industry. Through her pioneering approach to recruitment, her commitment to safety and service and her ability to inspire those around her, she has influenced not just a company but an entire community. Honouring Michelle ensures her story continues to inspire future generations in rail.
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Mr Alan 'Ernie' Wise
Company Name
Network Rail
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Alan ‘Ernie’ Wise is an exceptional strategic leader whose career spans over three decades in public service, including distinguished roles in the Metropolitan Police, British Transport Police, and Network Rail. His unwavering dedication, operational expertise, and leadership have profoundly shaped the UK’s rail and policing sectors.
Ernie began his career in the Metropolitan Police, serving with distinction across multiple operational departments. In 2010, he transitioned to the British Transport Police, where he led the newly established Force Event Planning Unit. His leadership was instrumental in the successful delivery of major national events, including the London 2012 Olympics, Notting Hill Carnival, and New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Joining Network Rail in 2017, Ernie brought a wealth of experience in crisis management, stakeholder engagement, and operational excellence. He has played a pivotal role in enhancing rail performance, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and implementing innovative technologies to build a more resilient and customer-focused railway.
Ernie’s contributions include:
A key contributor to the development of Rail Incident Command (RIC) and Tactical Incident Leader training.
Supporting major royal events such as the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, funeral, and the King’s coronation.
Establishing and managing Network Alert Coordination Groups (NACGs), including the COVID-19 response NACG.
Driving improvements to the National Operations Centre (NOC), advocating for better facilities and tools for staff.
Mentoring future leaders and championing a culture of collaboration, innovation, and resilience.
His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic was exemplary—personally supporting staff, liaising with unions, and ensuring the railway’s continued operation. Ernie’s qualifications in crowd management have further enhanced the network’s ability to handle major events with professionalism and care.
Ernie is widely respected for his humility, integrity, and approachability. He is a role model whose influence spans all levels of the organisation, from frontline staff to executive leadership. His ability to resolve complex issues and connect people for positive outcomes has made him the go-to person for critical challenges.
As he considers retirement, Ernie remains committed to ensuring his team is well-positioned for the future, particularly in the transition to Great British Railways (GBR). His legacy is one of service, vision, and excellence, and he continues to inspire those around him.
Recommendation:
Alan ‘Ernie’ Wise is a truly deserving recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award. His career reflects a profound commitment to public service, operational excellence, and the development of others. His impact on UK rail operations and his dedication to the railway family make him an outstanding nominee.
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Roy Anderson
Company Name
ScotRail
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I am honoured to nominate Roy Anderson for the Lifetime Achievement Award, in recognition of his remarkable 40 years of service and his outstanding contribution to the railway industry.
Roy’s career is a true example of dedication, professionalism, and resilience. Over four decades, he has not only delivered excellence in his own work but has also inspired, supported, and guided countless colleagues. His influence reaches far beyond day-to-day operations – he has helped shape a culture of teamwork, integrity, and service that will be remembered long after his retirement.
As a manager, Roy is admired for his approachable nature and steady leadership. He is known as the “coolest manager” – someone who is supportive, fair, and always ready to listen. His calm presence has reassured staff during difficult times, while his encouragement has motivated many to achieve more than they thought possible. New recruits, in particular, have benefited from his mentorship and the confidence he instils in others.
What sets Roy apart is the way he combines professionalism with humanity. He has built strong bonds with his teams, created an environment of trust and respect, and reminded everyone that the railway is not just about timetables and operations, but about people. His humour, kindness, and wisdom have left an imprint on those lucky enough to work alongside him.
The Lifetime Achievement Award is designed to honour those whose careers have made a lasting difference. Roy Anderson embodies exactly that. His four decades of service represent loyalty, excellence, and care for both colleagues and passengers. His legacy is one of leadership, inspiration, and commitment that will continue to influence the railway community for years to come.
For his extraordinary service and lasting impact, I am proud to nominate Roy Anderson for the Lifetime Achievement Award.
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Steve Wardle
Company Name
South Western Railway
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Steve Wardle devoted over 40 years to the railway, beginning his journey as a box boy with British Rail. From those early days, he rose through the ranks—becoming a train driver, instructor, and ultimately a Driver Trainer at Basingstoke ROC. His career was marked by dedication, mentorship, and a deep commitment to safety and service.
But Steve’s legacy extends far beyond the tracks. After the heart breaking loss of his son Alex to Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome (SADS) at just 23, Steve and his family founded The Alex Wardle Foundation. Through this, he became a tireless advocate for awareness, fundraising, and action—working with CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young) to bring heart screenings to colleges, resulting in hospital referrals and lives potentially saved.
Steve was instrumental in securing defibrillators at every SWR station—a milestone that continues to protect lives. He offered free CPR and defib training to anyone who wanted to learn, and together we launched staff training sessions that still run across the network. His efforts placed lifesaving equipment in schools, community groups, and public spaces across the region.
In recognition of his impact, SWR named a train after The Alex Wardle Foundation—a moving tribute to his advocacy and legacy. Steve also supported numerous charity events across SWR, including the Great South Run, and extended his compassion internationally by working with charities to deliver warm clothing to communities in Ukraine.
As a Freemason, Steve quietly supported good causes throughout the community, always putting others first. His generosity, humility, and unwavering kindness touched everyone who knew him.
I met Steve six years ago through our shared work with The Alex Wardle Foundation, and I’ve never known a more selfless, caring individual. His sudden passing this month has left a deep void—but his legacy lives on in every life he helped protect, every colleague he trained, and every community he uplifted.
This nomination is not just a tribute—it’s a thank you from all of us at SWR and beyond. Steve gave everything to this mission, and we are better, safer, and more united because of him.
Thank you, Steve.
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Tim Shoveller
Company Name
Freightliner
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Tim’s had a lifetime of dedication to the railway, always driven by a desire to improve how it works for people, customers, and the communities it serves. He started as a Trainee Guard at Guildford in 1992 and has spent over 30 years delivering change across the industry. From the frontline to senior roles at East Midlands Trains, Southwest Trains, and Stagecoach Rail, then MD of Network Rail’s Northwest & Central region, and CEO at Freightliner in August 2023.
Tim’s career reflects operational excellence, long-term thinking, and public service. He led the Southwest Alliance, one of the first attempts to integrate track and train in a single team. It wasn’t easy, but under his leadership it delivered better performance, clearer accountability, and a more joined-up passenger experience. More importantly, it showed that integration worked. That Alliance became the foundation on which the model for Great British Railways is now being built, a sign of his influence shaping not just what rail is, but what it’s becoming.
Tim stands out as a very influential and collaborative leader - not just in what he achieves, but in how he makes people feel. He launched a new freight service between Tilbury and Manchester which was initially unviable. Not one to walk away, he brought people together, dug into the legislation, and found a solution for the industry to temporarily waive access charges to make it work. That solution didn’t just help Freightliner, it’s now being used industrywide to support new freight services and is a key part of Network Rail’s growth toolkit. That’s the kind of leader he is, focused on outcomes, but always through collaboration.
Tim invites people in, empowers them to contribute, and genuinely wants to make things better, for the railway and the staff. He creates a culture where people feel trusted to try, even if they don’t get it right the first time. His motto, “fail fast and move on”. You know he’ll listen to new ideas, back you, and help you learn. He genuinely cares, knows your name, asks about your family, and notices when something’s off. It’s not just good leadership – it’s a reflection of the kind of person he is, making people feel seen, supported, and valued.
Recently stepping down after several years as Chair of the Railway Benefit Fund charity, he brought energy and compassion to the role, helping the organisation modernise and reach more people – the focus always on making sure railway people feel supported when life gets tough. Working with Tim builds your confidence, belief, and pride in making a difference. He has worked with, encouraged, and motivated many Rail Industry professionals in his time who are now senior leaders driving change and making a difference across the industry today.
Tim has shaped the railway’s past, its present, and its future, and those of us who work with him know the personal impact he’s had – changing careers, lifting confidence and making people feel proud to be part of the railway.
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Zoe Vale
Company Name
GTR - Southern
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Zoe Vale is an incredibly valued and integral part of the GTR Southern Rail Enforcement team.
Having started with Southern in October 1999, she has amassed over 25 years of experience and knowledge on the railway.
Zoe began her railway career as a ticket inspector along the Arun and Mole Valley lines. She progressed to a revenue protection inspector at Norwood Junction, before becoming a revenue protection officer in Brighton.
Zoe headed a task force of revenue protection officers (RPO) which included an imbedded police officer. They would be tasked with patrolling areas renowned for anti-social behaviour (ASB) and fare evasion.
Later, as part of a new GTR vision this task force was disbanded and the RPOs became leaders of the newly established Rail Enforcement Team.
Having been on the Rail Enforcement Team since its inception Zoe is the most senior and experienced member of the team. She is a guru and always lends her knowledge to new staff in any way she can.
As a Rail Enforcement Officer (REO) Zoe is out on the network daily, working on the frontline, keeping passengers and staff safe. In addition to being a high visibility deterrent to ASB, Zoe enjoys being involved in community engagement activities across the network. She has passed on her wealth of knowledge to 1000’s of school kids as part of junior citizens scheme and railway safety events over the years. She has helped prevent cycle theft at stations by participating in cycle safety awareness days, and she has been part of numerous events celebrating Brighton Pride.
The below quote from British Transport Police Officer Jason Burton shows how respected she is.
“I have known Zoe for many years initially working with her on the Rail Task Force (STF). She is incredibly hard working and always prepared to go the extra mile to get results.
Zoe is a team player and always willing to assist new members. Not only railway staff joining the STF, but also me as police officer when I first joined as the BTP Sergeant on the team.
As an REO, Zoe’s is always willing to assist on police operations, she is always coming up with new ideas as to how ops could be run better and suggest other outside agencies that may assist.
As an Intelligence officer with the BTP I often approach Zoe when following up leads, this is due to her experience and knowledge. She is invaluable when it comes to identifying wanted suspects.
Zoe is without a doubt a great asset to GTR.”
I think it is fair to say that you will struggle to find anyone on the railway with a bad word to say about Zoe (except maybe the criminals she stops). She is a thoroughly nice person, who is kind, patient, and generous.
Zoe has diligently served the railway for a quarter of a century, and she is still leading the way, with her boundless motivation and enthusiasm.
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15
PROJECT TEAM OR PERSON AWARD (OVER £5 MILLION)
This award recognises individuals or teams who have delivered large railway projects exceeding £5 million in value. Judges will be looking for excellence in planning, execution, innovation, and teamwork, celebrating those whose efforts have led to transformational changes in rail infrastructure, operations, or services.
Annek Panesar
Company Name
OCS Technical Services (Formally FES FM Ltd)
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Annek Panesar is the Regional Commercial Manager for the South England Business Unit within OCS and has been very closely linked to the Elizabeth Line Contract through FES FM ltd and now OCS. Behind the scenes Annek has worked tirelessly to deliver all the commercial and bid requirements of the challenging contract with GTS on the Elizabeth Line. Aligning the commercials and financials with the KPIs on the contract for the second concession his careful, collaborative and considerate planning endeared him to all those is the various elements of the bids project. Annek has developed robust reporting mechanisms including innovative use of Power BI to enable the client to have full visibility of the costs associated with this prestigious contract. We believe Annek is a genuine candidate for the award of unsung hero as he goes about his business quietly behind the scenes in a very busy and highly regulated environment. Whilst his efforts have not gone unnoticed in our organisation wider recognition of his work to the rail industry would be a fitting Tribute to him. We have seen how the Elizabeth Line has been recognised for many outstanding things but in the background the tremendous effort and time Annek has put in to make this part of the project work so well has been invaluable and we would love to see Annek awarded and recognised for the outstanding work he has done
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Beaulieu Park station team
Company Name
JMS, NR, Essex County council, Greater Anglia
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The Beaulieu Park Station project team exemplifies the highest standards of collaboration, innovation, and delivery excellence, making them a standout candidate for the Rail Staff Project Team of the Year award.
From inception through to the final stages of delivery, the team has demonstrated exceptional commitment to overcoming complex challenges while maintaining a relentless focus on safety, quality, and stakeholder engagement. The project, which forms a critical part of the Anglia region’s infrastructure strategy, is now in its final stages of construction, with all major activities nearing completion and the Entry into Service programme well underway.
A key highlight of the team’s performance has been their ability to maintain momentum despite significant external pressures. These included unresolved land transfers, cost uncertainties, and evolving technical requirements. Through proactive engagement and close working with sponsors and funders, including Essex County Council, Chelmsford City Council, Homes England and Countryside L&Q, the team ensured that governance processes progressed smoothly, enabling timely drawdown of essential funding. On this project Network Rail contracted with Essex County Council who were the promotor and funder of last resort and worked closely with the Council’s client side project managers to ensure that the project was delivered in line with the Council’s expectations and to their agreed programme and budgets.
The team’s technical delivery has been equally impressive. They successfully achieved critical path handover dates, enabling downstream activities such as MEP installations and signalling works to proceed without delay. Their coordination with contractors like JMS and Alstom ensured that ancillary civil works and signal base installations were completed to programme, safeguarding the project’s APiS (Authorisation to Place into Service) milestone.
Safety has remained a cornerstone of the team’s ethos. Lessons learned from previous incidents were swiftly integrated into future planning, and fire safety assurance was rigorously managed through regular engagement with BVT. The team’s meticulous preparation of the technical file and supporting documentation—including the Declaration of Control of Risk, Safety Assessment Report, and Project Hazard Record—earned formal endorsement from the Eastern Region System Review Panel, confirming the robustness of their risk management approach.
The human element of the project has been equally inspiring. Individuals such as Ian Bland and Will Ross played pivotal roles in driving the programme and providing specialist input into risk assessments and scheduling. Their leadership, alongside the broader team’s resilience and adaptability, has been instrumental in navigating the project through critical delivery phases.
Moreover, the team’s commitment to operational readiness has been exemplary. They proactively planned and funded simulator-based training for over 40 operational staff, ensuring that signallers and service delivery managers are fully prepared for commissioning.
In summary, the Beaulieu Park Station project team has delivered a complex, high-profile infrastructure scheme with professionalism, agility, and a deep sense of purpose. Their achievements reflect not only technical excellence but also a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. They are a credit to the rail industry and richly deserving of recognition as the Rail Staff Project Team of the Year
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Construction Services Western Track , Jason Pankhurst
Company Name
Network Rail
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Construction Services Western Track and D&P Team delivered an outstanding project in Penzance, constructing three new sidings for Great Western Railway to stable three nine-car trains. This new facility forms part of a wider investment that will create 2,000 extra daily summer seats and 10,000 additional seats on services to and from St Ives, directly improving passenger capacity and experience.
What sets this team apart is their innovative approach to health , safety and inclusivity . The majority of the team lodged away from their homes and loved ones for up to 3 months to deliver this project. Their resilience for safe delivery was outstanding, including engaging with a community project to give something back , whilst in Penzance.
They trialled Reactec watch technology, which alerts wearers in real time when entering machine exclusion zones and records data for structured debriefs. This system also monitors HAVs and silica dust, encouraging safe behaviours, positive communication, and a culture of mutual respect across the workforce.
To reinforce learning, the team produced a video showcasing both their construction success and the importance of exclusion zone safety. This collaborative effort, supported by partners including Quattro, Coyles, Inside Out Group, Balfour Beatty, AMCO Giffen, Hi Motive, and Network Rail, demonstrates a commitment not only to delivery but also to sharing innovation and embedding a leadership culture of mindfulness and psychological safety across all the teams . The team achieved
* Technology trial, for maintaining exclusion zones, and monitoring HAVs, as well as measuring silica dust levels on site.
* Working as One Team with our suppliers
* Site Hazard awareness
* listening to and Hearing from site operatives as part of the educational film
* Ecology monitoring during work
Environment and Social Value goals realised
* Delighting our GWR and local community customers
* adherence to 4 key pillars of safety, Prepare, prevent, protect and respond.
* And engaging the viewers to proactively share their innovations and best practices to support us in collaborative improvements.
By combining engineering excellence with forward-thinking safety practices and true teamwork, the Western Track Construction Services Team has set a benchmark for collaborative project delivery. They are highly deserving of recognition through the Project Team Award.
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CP7 Clifton Rail Bridge Project
Company Name
Skanska
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The Skanska UK construction team are delivering a major railway bridge replacement scheme for Network Rail in Clifton Village, Penrith; this bridge carries the West Coast Mainline over the M6 motorway near Junction 39. The scheme value is circa. £60m and is due for completion in 2026.
A core blockade (railway closure) will take place in early January 2026 for two weeks, including two weekend closure of the M6 to facilitate demolition of the existing bridge, a 1960s post-tensioned cellular box girder bridge (3-spans, total circa. 140m length). The existing bridge is in a poor condition as are many legacy post-tensioned bridges in the UK, therefore this is a safety critical project for Network Rail and the UK Rail network. The second weekend closure involved the installation of a new steel-concrete composite 3-span bridge, formed with weather steel trapezoidal box girder sections (fabricated off-site and assembled in the adjacent fabrication yard next to the existing bridge and M6) with precast concrete deck units that are compositely connected to the steel box girders. The bridge will be moved into place using self-propelled modular transports (SPMTs), a complex engineering task that involves international experts in abnormal and heavy lifting activities (Mammoet).
The design team is formed of Mott MacDonald (lead designer), Ramboll (assessment of existing bridge), Tony Gee & Partners (independent design checker) and Skanska internal design teams (temporary works designs).
The project is being delivered through a truly collaborative approach, under an NEC4 ECC Option C target cost contract, which is on target for budget, with significant efficiencies being achieved through Skanska's application of a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) strategy. The collaboration has been extensive, including involved from:
- Skanska
- Network Rail
- Mott MacDonald
- National Highways
- Environment Agency
- Various utilities providers
- Ramboll
- Mammoet
- Armac/Andun
- J&D Pierce
- FP McCann
- Tony Gee and Partners
- Cementation Skanska
- Private Landowners
- Central Rail Systems Alliance (Rail systems contractor)
The collaborative efforts have led to the formation of seamless programmes and exemplary working relationships, with client and stakeholder confidence levels being significantly high.
The project team have engaged in various social value efforts, including engagement with local communities, careers talks and at local primary schools, community activities and charity fundraising activities.
Environmental and sustainability requirements have been a core focus for this project, with the implementation of Biodiversity Net Gain assessments, targets and design solutions that incorporate environmental requirements and sustainability measures to reduce carbon and embodied energy through the lifecycle of the infrastructure.
The project also included some bleeding edge research and development, where complex and unique engineering challenges are being tackled head on with collaboration between Skanska and the wider project team.
This project currently stands at the single largest value renewal scheme that Network Rail are funding, with Skanska leading the delivery with precise planning and execution, underpinned by an ethos of collaboration, safety, quality and sustainability.
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Diamond Rail Services and Hitachi
Company Name
Diamond Rail Services
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Diamond and Hitachi first began working together in 2023 working on the Class 395, High Speed 1 Refurbishment requirements. 29 trains required a refurbishment and due to challenging budgeting restraints, a new and innovative approach was needed. Projects of this scale are traditionally managed by multiple contractors, with various suppliers and are usually complete at an alternative purpose built facility. This can lead to fragmented communication, delays, and higher costs. Hitachi took a bold step in engaging Diamond Rail, a Sheffield-based SME to act as the sole turnkey partner with their support.
In June 2023, the refurbishment project started with high risks, and an optimistic programme ending in May 2025. The lean approach left no room or time for error in delivery. Thankfully the project ran to programme and budget with the interior works being completed in an impressive 14 day down time. This is for a 6 car unit that receives new flooring, interior paint, floor modifications, full seat refurbishment, powder coating and relabeling throughout. All this work and the performance is exemplary with most of the units receiving as little as 1 and 2 snags! This really is unheard of in the refurbishment world and the praise from Hitachi, Southeastern and Eversholt flows for the work that Diamond Rail are completing.
This really is an innovative approach to working together and delivering a fleet refurbishment. By bringing interdependencies into one supplier, this enables excellent communication and management which ultimately is passed on to the customer. Both businesses share values in customer service and the human factors involved when working as part of a team. It is this that has made a success for the project. Diamond are extremely grateful to the Hitachi team for their open mindedness and unique approach to this project and supporting this new way of working and the customer is grateful for the result because of this.
Hitachi are also testing a new way of working, as their core UK business is the maintenance of their new fleet. This is the first and flagship interior refurbishment that Hitachi have completed and such, the drive to deem it a success and a tangible business model for future has been the focus for all.
This collaboration has set new benchmarks across the industry:
1) The in-depot refurbishment model is now being adopted elsewhere
2) A new SME-led supply chain model has shown how flexibility and innovation can outperform traditional procurement
3) A user-led design approach has set a new standard for accessibility and inclusivity in rail
We didn’t just refurbish a fleet—we redefined how refurbishment is done. That’s why we are not just worthy candidates—but the ideal winners of this team award
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EIS-G
Company Name
Network Rail
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The Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) is the UK’s most ambitious rail infrastructure upgrade programme with the TRU West Alliance team transforming the railway between Manchester and Leeds. The most recent example is the 30-day blockade to deliver Huddersfield Station Phase 1 (EIS-G) in September 2025. Involving civils, track, and signalling teams working around the clock, this complex blockade saw the reconstruction of Platform 1 alongside a wide package of works across Huddersfield. This £multi-million investment is a defining milestone towards a faster, more reliable railway across the North.
The blockade was years in the planning. From readiness reviews and risk analysis to contingency and safety planning, every eventuality was considered, all while facing harsh Pennine weather, supply chain pressures, and the sensitivities of working within a Grade I listed station (even the historic tearooms had to be dismantled for a later like-for-like reinstall). Under the TRU Enterprise model, planning extended beyond the Alliance, engaging train operating companies, freight operators, local authorities, and community stakeholders. The resulting passenger-first approach meant diversions, rail replacement services, and enhanced customer support kept passengers moving - a first for a weekday blockade of this scale.
The scope of work delivered was immense. Platform 1 was demolished and rebuilt, while other platforms were upgraded. John William Street Bridge and Span 29 were demolished and reconstructed using 650-tonne and 1200-tonne cranes in a constrained town-centre environment. At Deighton, platforms were demolished to allow the build of additional tracks and a new future station. Across the corridor, over 3,000 metres of track were renewed, switches and crossings installed, drainage upgraded, and signalling remodelled between Diggle and Hillhouse. A significant station boundary change reconfigured Huddersfield’s signalling control and operational footprint. All works were designed for future electrification, to be delivered in December 2028.
Delivering such breadth in just 30 days demanded flawless execution and teamwork. Civils, track, signalling, and systems specialists, supported by supply chain partners, worked side by side, with roles allocated on a ‘best for project’ basis. Shared digital tools and a common charter of behaviours ensured individuals from different organisations operated as one team.
Innovation was embedded throughout. Digital rehearsals, 4D visualisation, and immersive planning improved sequencing and safety. Temporary and permanent works were designed in parallel, reducing duplication and disruption. The enterprise model integrated engineering and service planning, proving complex works can be delivered while keeping passengers moving.
Alongside the physical works, the Alliance has focused on building a sustainable future workforce. Consistent leadership ensured valuable lessons, and experienced staff, were carried forward from earlier works, while widescale recruitment brought in fresh talent, including over 139 apprentices and 73 graduates. Thousands of schoolchildren are being inspired through STEM activity, and millions invested with local suppliers and SMEs, ensuring a lasting social and economic legacy for the region.
The delivery of Huddersfield Station Phase 1 (EIS-G) on time and budget shows what can be achieved when multiple organisations unite as one team: The TRU West Alliance.
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FERRYBRIDGE TO GOOLE RE-SIGNALLING TEAM
Company Name
ALSTOM TRANSPORT UK&I
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"As railway systems grow increasingly intricate, operators and maintenance personnel require a reliable interlocking system to ensure optimal performance. The new Smartlock and Smartio interlocking systems from Alstom provide user-friendly and cost-efficient solutions, enhancing the resilience of the railway infrastructure and promoting greater availability for sustainable travel and freight transport options. This initiative aims to upgrade outdated signaling equipment to enhance travel experiences in the Ferrybridge to Goole region along the North and East Route, with a target completion date set for the end of 2026. The project is divided into two phases: Phase one focuses on the Ferrybridge Area, where on September 9, 2024, the team successfully completed the commissioning of Smartlock and Smart IO (three units), along with the introduction of Frauscher train detection managed from an NX Panel extension at the Ferrybridge Signal Box. Additionally, two level crossings were renewed to MarkIIOD standards, integrated with Alstom’s VHLC and Smartlock technology. These crossings mark the first implementation of ODMKII using an Alstom solution, necessitating close collaboration with the NR level crossing development team and the OD Supplier IDS for successful execution. The progress of the ODMKII commissioning has surpassed initial expectations, primarily due to the outstanding readiness and construction quality achieved on-site following the main stage commissioning at Ferrybridge. Phase two involves the re-signalling of the Goole Signal Box and its integration into the York Rail Operating Centre, which includes the renewal and re-control of three level crossings: Thorne Moorends (MCB-ODMKII), Boothferry Road (MCB-CCTV), and Snaith & Pontefract (MCB-ODMKII). Work has commenced at Goole, with plans to commission in November 2026. Successfully delivering such a complex scheme necessitates the assurance of safe and efficient train movement through a combination of conventional and digital signalling technologies." said Jo Boocock.
"The F2G Project Team plays a crucial role in the effective planning, coordination, and execution of two project commissioning areas within a single programme. This initiative focuses on upgrading and replacing the outdated signalling system across a 58km railway network to enhance safety, efficiency, reliability, and capacity. The project entails the much needed renewal of aging and degraded signalling assets with modern equivalents, divided into two specific areas: Ferrybridge and Goole. The team successfully implemented three Smart IO Products and upgraded two MCB-ODMKII level crossings, incorporating Alstom’s Smart Lock Technology and Frauscher train detection systems on the North and East Route of Network Rail's infrastructure. This allowed for the assets and signalling system to be put into service on 9th September 2024, with the Obstacle detection going live on 25th October 2024, in collaboration with IDS and Network Rail. Despite facing project challenges and engaging in negotiations with the broader route to establish new commissioning timelines, the team exceeded expectations to ensure a smooth commissioning process for Ferrybridge. The commissioning date was set with only 20 weeks' notice, during which significant unforeseen challenges arose. The team, undeterred by adversity, worked collaboratively to find solutions. The new Obstacle detection technology is vital for improving the safety of personnel, passengers, and freight, while the SMIO technology enhances reliability and maintainability for end users. The Goole end of the programme has undergone a thorough planning and initiation phase, resulting in a well-defined delivery and implementation strategy, with commissioning scheduled for November 2026. This project would not have been feasible without exceptional coordination, collaboration, innovative thinking, prompt responses, and a proactive mindset we have in our fantastic team! " said Annie Waller
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Hitachi 4LM Test & Commissioning Team
Company Name
Hitatchi Rail
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In 2024-2025, the Hitachi 4LM T&C team have achieved some critical milestones in delivering the 4LM project to TFL. The 4 Lines Modernisation Project started initial phase testing in 2016 and has since commissioned 7 Signalling Migration Areas (SMAs) into revenue service. The current core area includes the Hammersmith & City, Circle, District & Metropolitan lines Central. This year introduced a new SMA in the Met North area and dynamic test closures in the District West area along with some critical commissioning's and uplifts.
In March 2025, Hitachi T&C successfully completed the largest ever VCC/SMC software revenue uplift in one shift. There was a CBTC line wide shutdown to facilitate the uplift of 7 VCCs, wayside SCSs and a full SMC suite of software at Hammersmith Service Control Centre. An uplift of this magnitude has never been attempted on LU infrastructure before and the commissioning was successfully delivered before the start of revenue trains on the Sunday morning.
In April 2025, Hitachi T&C successfully completed a Dynamic Systems Test Closure of SMA10+12. This was the first closure in the District West area of 4LM which incorporates the District Line between Earls Court towards Wimbledon and Turnham Green. The closure was incredibly complex as parts of the test area are already CBTC commissioned and significant planning and approvals were needed to move trains in and out of the worksite. An enormous amount of over and backing of wayside assets, wayside software, control room software and data communications architecture was required. Over 200 members of staff were deployed over the weekend with a variety of S-Stock and Engineer Vehicles carrying out dynamic testing throughout. This was the first time on 4LM that 2 new VCCs were introduced for testing at the same time and enormous effort was made in the build up to this closure to enable a 98% completion of high priority testing.
In May 2025, Hitachi T&C successfully commissioned SMA08 into CBTC revenue service to London Underground Passengers. SMA08 integrates the Metropolitan Line, Jubilee Line, the Hitachi PMI depot signalling system with Neasden Depot which is one of the largest depots on the TFL system. The introduction of SMA08 was one of the most complex commissioning's ever undertaken on a Metro Network worldwide. Over 200 staff worked tirelessly throughout the weekend with over 5000 individual changes carried out to the signalling system. The system was handed over to London Underground operations on Saturday evening and after a successfully period of trial operations, the decision was made on Sunday evening to "go-live" with the new CBTC signalling system.
The Hitachi T&C team have put in a tremendous amount of work during an extremely tight time period and have featured in a "first of its kind" IRSE presentation video which has been seen worldwide. The Hitachi T&C team deserve to be recognised for their phenomenal achievements and commitment to delivery for London Undergrounds customers.
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Julie Williams
Company Name
Alstom Transport UK Ltd
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Julie Williams did an absolutely brilliant job as the Project Manager on the Victoria Phase 4 project, worth over £35 million. She managed the project from the GRIP 4 stage all the way through to delivery in GRIP 5-8, steering the project to successful completion, while demonstrating exceptional project management skills. This project was no small task, and thanks to Julies' leadership, the railway is now safer, more reliable, and future-ready, with digital signaling that's already making a difference for operators and passengers. Julie handled all of this while also becoming a new parent. Balancing a high-pressure project with such challenges of early parenthood is no easy feat, and her resilience, empathy and unwavering commitment to excellence make her a role model both within Alstom, and the wider rail industry.
Beyond the delivery of the project, Julie also organised multiple CSR events, giving back to the community and bringing people together. On top of this, she mentored two young apprentices, helping them grow in confidence and capability and fostering the next generation of railway professionals with her encouragement.
She’s gone above and beyond at every stage, and her work has brought real innovation to the railway. Julie deserves recognition not just for delivering a complex project, but for doing it in a way that inspired everyone around her.
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Merseyrail Sandhills Station Crowd Management Zone and New Bridge Project Team
Company Name
Merseyrail Electrics 2002 Limited
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Team: Merseyrail Project Team
Project: Sandhills Station Crowd Management Zone & New Bridge Works
Client Interface: Liverpool City Region Combined Authority / Everton Football Club
Delivery Partners: Merseyrail, Principal Contractor (Morgan Sindall), Design Consultants, Network Rail
Location: Sandhills Station, Merseyside
Executive Summary
We’d like to proposed the Merseyrail Project Team is nominated for the Best Project Team Award in recognition of their exemplary performance in delivering the Sandhills Station Crowd Management Zone and associated bridge works. This high-profile scheme was delivered under exceptional time and budgetary constraints to enable safe and efficient passenger movement for Everton Football Club home fixtures from the start of the 2025–26 season (to support the opening of the new Hill-Dickinson Stadium).
The team demonstrated outstanding collaboration, engineering excellence, and an unwavering commitment to safety, achieving Zero Harm throughout the lifecycle of the project.
Project Overview
• Scope: Installation of a new pedestrian bridge, crowd control infrastructure, and enhancements at Sandhills Station.
• Programme Constraints: Works were completed within a compressed delivery window to meet the operational deadline aligned with the Premier League season.
• Budgetary Discipline: Delivered within a tightly controlled capital allocation, with significant value engineering applied to maintain scope integrity.
Key Achievements:
Engineering Delivery
• Full compliance with Network Rail ES Stages 4–6 requirements.
• Seamless integration of new infrastructure into a live operational railway environment.
• Design and installation of a modular bridge structure with minimal disruption to train services and station operations.
Stakeholder Engagement
• Proactive coordination with Network Rail Route Asset Managers, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, and Everton FC.
• Transparent communication with local residents and matchday passengers.
• Effective interface management between design, construction, and operational teams.
Health & Safety Excellence
• Zero Harm achieved across all phases of the project.
• Compliance with CDM Regulations 2015 and CSM-RA Safety Validation
• Daily Task Briefings, Permit-to-Work protocols, and dynamic risk assessments ensured a safe working environment for all personnel.
• No RIDDOR-reportable incidents or lost-time injuries.
Programme Management
• Agile delivery model with phased commissioning to meet critical matchday milestones.
• Efficient Possession Planning to optimise work windows.
• Escalation Steering Group for swift decision making.
Legacy Impact
• The new crowd management zone has significantly improved passenger safety and flow during high-footfall events.
• The bridge installation enhances accessibility and resilience of the station infrastructure.
• The project sets a benchmark for collaborative delivery under pressure, demonstrating what can be achieved when public service, technical excellence, and safety culture converge.
Conclusion
The Merseyrail Project Team exemplifies the values of professionalism, safety, and public service that define the UK rail industry. Their delivery of the Sandhills Station upgrade is a testament to what can be achieved through disciplined project management, stakeholder alignment, and an uncompromising commitment to safety.
This team is not only deserving of the Best Project Team Award—they are a model for future infrastructure delivery across the network.
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Metro Delivery Unit - PM&C Team
Company Name
WSP
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The nomination highlights Obul Reddy’s significant contributions as a project management professional at WSP, showcasing his leadership, mentoring, innovation, and alignment with organizational values. His efforts extend beyond project delivery, demonstrating a changemaker mindset that drives cultural, operational, and strategic impact across the business.
Professional Qualifications and Mentoring
Obul holds double Chartered status (ChPP and CMgr), positioning himself as a role model for professional excellence. He actively promotes qualifications across WSP GCC and lead regions by conducting sessions in collaboration with APM UK. He currently mentors eight professionals across diverse geographies and disciplines, guiding them toward certifications and memberships. Through his initiatives, 100% of the MDU PM&C team achieved professional membership, with 90% gaining relevant certifications—directly elevating team capability.
Creative Thinking and Problem-Solving
Obul spearheaded a shift from task-based project delivery to a lifecycle-focused, strategic approach, improving collaboration, accountability, cost optimization, and client satisfaction. Key innovations include:
• Implementing Power BI dashboards on global projects (Tel Aviv and Dublin metros) for real-time earned value reporting.
• Introducing a triangulated reporting method for higher accuracy.
• Enhancing earned value management and automating forensic planning tools for delay analysis.
• Automating Primavera P6 updates and developing tailored charging mechanisms to improve revenue.
• Designing Power BI reports spanning the entire project lifecycle.
These solutions streamlined reporting, elevated technical proficiency, and enhanced client confidence in WSP’s capabilities.
Technical Innovation and Processes
Obul championed digital transformation by piloting tools for delay analysis, Primavera automation, and feedback integration. He is developing a global team integration tool to address efficiency losses and cost leaks across multidisciplinary projects. His introduction of the MDU charging mechanism improved revenue realization within GCC. These initiatives reflect his proactive approach to embedding innovation into standard practice.
Upholding WSP’s Guiding Principles
He consistently reinforced WSP’s values—collaboration, integrity, innovation, and client focus—through cross-discipline coordination, recognition of team contributions, and embedding values into onboarding. By challenging legacy models and advocating a digital-first approach, he positioned WSP at the forefront of project lifecycle transparency and accountability.
Stakeholder Engagement and Team Culture
Obul fostered a learning culture by organizing weekly knowledge-sharing sessions and driving cross-regional collaboration on project controls. He standardized WBS structures across global portfolios, improving forecasting and reporting consistency. His passion for accuracy and value-driven delivery strengthened stakeholder trust, demonstrated through zero reporting escalations in a multimillion-dollar project over 18 months.
Adaptability and Resilience
Faced with challenges such as shifting scopes, regulatory uncertainties, and organizational changes, he mitigated risks through agile scheduling, re-baselining, contingency planning, and continuous monitoring. He introduced a cross-regional cost control framework with predictive analytics, improving transparency, forecast accuracy, and stakeholder confidence. His proactive trend analysis framework enabled real-time variance detection and corrective action.
Through professional mentoring, innovative digital solutions, cultural reinforcement, and stakeholder engagement, Obul Reddy exemplifies a changemaker at WSP. His contributions enhanced project delivery, revenue optimization, and team cohesion, leaving a lasting impact on both organizational performance and professional development across global teams.
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Railway 200 'Inspiration' Train Project Team
Company Name
Network Rail
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The Railway 200 'Inspiration' train represents a cross industry effort to conceive, design, and deliver the first exhibition train on the railway in over 40 years. It is an example of how a small team with a clear focus can deliver something really impactful. This project required the team to research, procure, strip and repair appropriate rolling stock, to work with partners to design and install an engaging interactive interior, develop a ticketing and customer engagement system, and engage with colleagues, train planners, and stakeholders to develop a detailed plan for a historic nationwide journey.
All of this was delivered in less than eighteen months with much of the substantive work having to take place in the final six months of this period, leaving little room for slippage or overruns. The team worked within a very constrained set of finances but successfully delivered to time and budget. To support the deliver of the programme, the team sought external funding and successfully managed to bring in both commercial sponsorship and National Lottery funding, both of which will provide a template for future projects and programmes.
'Inspiration is a non-standard project for Network Rail and, as such, does not fit within any pre-defined category. This meant that the project team had to develop new relationships, overcome unforeseen administrative hurdles, push the boundaries of existing knowledge and skills, and create something inspirational and customer-focused which the public would want to engage with.
The exhibition train launched in June 2025 with an event at Waterloo station attended by the rail minister and stakeholders from across the industry. It will run until June 2026 and will visit c.60 locations across Great Britain. To date over 25,000 people have visited the train, including many school children. The train will ultimately result in tens of thousands of young people being inspired to consider a career in rail and will support the industry in developing the next generation of railway staff, helping to address significant workforce challenges. Network Rail estimates that this engagement will save the industry more than £16m in training and recruitment.
In summary, the team conceived and delivered a high-profile project which was both technical, customer facing, and unique, in a very short period of time and to a very limited budget. The work that they delivered will act as a template for future projects and programmes and the subsequent engagement with thousands of young people will ultimately help the industry to overcome significant long-term workforce challenges. The team deserve to be recognised for the hard work, partnership approach, and ingenuity that they brought to the project and for the success that they achieved.
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Telent Project Team - Metrolink Communication Network
Company Name
Telent
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Metrolink Communication Network (MCN) – Returning a Challenged and Complex Technology Project into a Successful Future-Ready Network
The Metrolink Communication Network (MCN) project marks a major achievement in leadership, stakeholder collaboration and cross-party teamwork by an integrated multi-disciplinary delivery team.
The MCN programme was originally mobilised at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic with the goal of replacing TfGM’s legacy transmission infrastructure with a modern fibre-optic network including new cable route, new control centre servers, firewalls and switches across the entire Metrolink estate which is the largest light-rail network in the UK.
This £8.4 million investment was to maintain reliable passenger services and enhance resilience on the UK’s largest light rail network and enable future smart technologies to be deployed further improving passenger experience.
The complexity of the project cannot be overstated. Over 600 hours of design engineering and more than 200 installations were delivered across TfGM’s live Tram network. More than 200 legacy network interfaces were replaced. Over 90 kilometres of new fibre-optic cabling were installed along with 25km of new cable route, dramatically extending the network’s reach and resilience. Crucially, this was all done with the least amount of planned disruption to passenger service.
Programme and delivery challenges as a consequence of Covid-19, and the technical complexities around legacy system integration issues causing the wider project team to re-think its overall delivery plans. The impact of these issues meant programme delays and cost challenges to both Telent and TfGM.
As a direct result of these impacting issues, an Executive Board between Telent and TfGM was established to understand and oversee the critical activities needed to drive the project forward and address several complex delivery challenges that were mutually accepted.
One of the core decisions from the Executive Board was to establish an Integrated Project Team (IPT) with Telent (lead), TfGM, KAM and Hitachi. This approach helped re-energise the programme and supported much of the problem solving through daily stand-ups, weekly governance reviews and open, cross-partner collaboration workshops. This was not simply a technical fix, but a cultural shift - rebuilding confidence, trust, and shared accountability across all stakeholders.
In July 2025, the IPT successfully completed the migration from legacy TfGM infrastructure to the future-ready MCN fibre transmission network.
For TfGM, delivery of MCN means a modern network that is fit-for-the-future to maintain and grow. The new infrastructure will support innovations such as the Bee Network travel app, contactless ticketing, real-time diagnostics and automated system updates. For the rail industry, it offers a case study in how true leadership, collaboration and teamwork can re-focus and recover complex technology projects that have incurred unforeseen technical challenges.
This nomination recognises not only the Telent technical achievement of modernising Manchester’s light rail communication network, but also the leadership, cross-party collaboration and teamwork that returned the project to being a success.
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Victoria Phase 4
Company Name
Alstom
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I would like to take the opportunity to nominate the Alstom Victoria Phase 4 project team for the Project Team (Over £5m) award. The project scope included resignalling, relock and recontrol of the Tulse Hill, Crystal Palace and Peckham Rye areas to Three Bridge ROC, installing 65no. new signal heads (inc 2 gantry structures at Tulse Hill Station), 10no. reused signals, 7no. new SmartIO equipment housings (aka REBs), 2no. Auxiliary Supply Points (ASPs), 3no. new DNOs, 23km of new cabling for signalling, telecoms and power, and recovery of over 140 location cases and redundant cables for recycling and reuse. The contract value was £52m at completion, having successfully commissioned on 2nd November 2024.
Throughout the project life cycle spanning from Grip 4 in 2020 through to early contractor involvement in 2021 and full Grip 5-8 completion in 2025, Alstom has maintained a high safety record, with zero accidents of incidents incurred during the 27, 400 work hours completed in the 7 day commissioning blockade in Oct-> Nov 2024.
The project successfully introduced two new Alstom products to the southern regions in the forms of SmartIO and MCS-I which work in conjunction to improve passenger service reliability across the network as well as improving the signaller operators interface at the control centre. The projects target was to replace outdated and obsolete equipment which had been installed on the network since the 1980s and was reaching the end of its reliable design life. The project team worked to interface with the previously completed Victoria Phase 3 project by Siemens which commissioned in 2023 and our sister project Victoria Phase 5 by Alstom to be commissioned in 2027.
These interfaces posed challenges of integrating different technologies to seamlessly transition between interlocking areas and ensure full control is maintained at all times.
The introduction of SmartIO across the rail network has successfully reduced the number of lineside equipment housings by interfacing directly with the lineside equipment, which has reduce the maintenance requirements and relieved pressure on the Network maintainer.
During the project lifecycle the team have strived to champion CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) through 3no.local litter picking events, 2no. local primary school (Hitherfield Primary School, Tulse Hill) events which included a tour of Alstoms's adjacent New Cross Gate maintenance depot and a rail industry awareness day held at the school, Movember fundraiser, McMillan Coffee morning, volunteering days for Lewisham Foodbank at Lewisham Tescos and christmas collections every year and funding for local charity Besson Street Community Garden to obtain an eco toilet, maintain their facilities and provided upcycles benches and tables made from spare cable drum cores.
The project team has worked collaboratively with the Client Network Rail to achieve the successful commissioning of Victoria Phase 4, working to reduce costs were possible whilst maintaining a high quality of deliverables for the end user, the public. We look forward to seeing the continued improvement across the network and the fruition of the teams efforts.
Supporting Articles: https://www.alstom.com/press-releases-ne...
https://www.railpro.co.uk/news/alstom-co...
https://www.networkrail.co.uk/running-th...
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Westbury South renewal team at SRSA
Company Name
South Rail Systems Alliance (SRSA)
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Over the Christmas and New Year of 2024/2025, the South Rail Systems Alliance (SRSA) team worked at Westbury South to improve outcomes for passengers, freight, and the industry as a whole - completing vital rail systems upgrade with minimal disruption to the local community.
Context:
Westbury Junction is a critical hub on the Great Western network, serving as a key interchange for routes connecting London, the Southwest, South Wales, and the South Coast. With a high volume, both passenger and freight, it is a vital artery for national rail operations. Any infrastructure failure at this junction poses a significant bottleneck risk, with the potential to disrupt services across a wide geographic area. Recognizing this strategic importance, Network Rail’s Western and Wales Region prioritized Westbury South as the largest and most complex track renewal in Control Period 7 (CP7). The project involved a broad scope of technically demanding works, including track, signalling, drainage, lineside civils, and platform upgrades.
Complexity:
This project renewed 30 units of S&C, 2000m of plain track, and a modern signalling interlocking upgrade controlled by 14 new-build and 22 existing location cases. It introduced a new route, 20 new speed boards, 15 km of new cabling, 500m of new cable containment, 220m of new drainage, platform coper adjustments and resurfacing, and 22 new sets of points heating and transformers. The renewal was further complicated by the complex layout of the junction, which incorporates multiple turnouts, crossovers, and signalling interfaces, making the work technically challenging to deliver without compromising safety or future flexibility.
Key ingredients of the success were:
1. Rigor in Planning and execution
The scheme’s success demonstrates how complex projects can be delivered within tight timeframes through exceptional collaboration across design, construction, testing, and assurance teams, highlighting the value of alliance in streamlining delivery models. Some of the key enablers were:
•Design & Construction Interface– Regular meetings enabled integration of multi-disciplinary designs and resolution of site challenges.
•Progressive Assurance– Designs were assured throughout development, ensuring build readiness.
•Early Manufacturer Engagement– Early planning and approval of manufacturer’s S&C panel drawings supported critical path activities.
•Detailed Logistics Planning– Large mobilization of over 15000 hours, 68 engineering trains, two Kirow cranes, pre-build of S+C panels ahead of main possession, and an hour-by-hour blockade plan ensured smooth execution.
2. Engineering and Innovation Excellence
•Modern track renewal techniques, including modular installs, pre-planned logistics hubs, and digital tools, improved efficiency and ensured timely delivery.
•The project showcased high safety standards, workforce planning, and environmental considerations — aligning with modern infrastructure goals.
Outcome and Impact:
By implementing a full blockade strategy over traditional possession, the SRSA team compressed delivery to 30 days—avoiding six months of disruption and achieving £11 million in efficiencies. This accelerated approach minimized impact on passengers and freight, while future-proofing a critical junction on the network for atleast next 3 decades.
Conclusion:
The scheme showcases best practice in large-scale rail delivery, demonstrating engineering excellence, strategic value, and exemplary collaboration—making the SRSA Westbury South Team a strong contender for an award nomination.
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15
PROJECT TEAM OR PERSON AWARD (UNDER £5 MILLION)
This award celebrates individuals or teams who have successfully delivered projects within the rail industry, with a total value under £5 million. Judges will be looking for excellence in planning, execution, innovation, and teamwork, celebrating those whose efforts have led to transformational changes in rail infrastructure, operations, or services.
Charleston Drainage Syphon Renewal
Company Name
Network Rail
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The Charleston site on Scotland’s Highland Main Line has faced recurring slope instability and flooding, which has necessitated an integrated geotechnical and drainage engineering response. This project addressed historic drainage inadequacies and built climate resilience through innovative asset management, design, and infrastructure upgrades.
The Highland Main Line, spanning approximately 190 km from Perth to Inverness, boasts significant heritage and engineering features, including both single and double track sections, key passing loops, and stations. It serves around one million passengers annually. The site is located approximately 8 miles north of Perth, within a soil cutting characterised by steep slopes and a complex drainage system comprising crest ditches that feed into a syphon and cess drainage, areas which are historically prone to blockages and slope failures. The site’s Victorian-era inverted syphon—a critical U-shaped drain transferring water beneath the track—requires regular maintenance to remain effective.
Severe weather events such as Storm Darcy (2021) and Storm Babet (2023) caused slope washouts and track flooding at this location, further exposing the vulnerabilities in the existing system. With the increasing frequency and severity of such storms, the urgency for a robust, future-proof solution became ever more apparent, aligning with the broader context of climate adaptation across the UK’s rail infrastructure. The project team undertook investigation to accurately characterise subsurface conditions, informing targeted interventions for both short- and long-term stability.
Following detailed investigations, a coordinated approach in line with Network Rail’s Water Management Strategy was adopted. This expanded the drainage and geotechnical scope to improve asset resilience through stability assessments, ground investigations, and comprehensive earthworks strategies. The drainage system was found to be undersized for current and future climate conditions, leading to the design of a twin-bore inverted syphon to handle increased runoff, alongside extensive upgrades to ditch and track drainage. These interventions not only address the immediate risks but also embed flexibility for future enhancements, ensuring the continued safe and reliable operation of this vital rail corridor for generations to come.
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Depot Upgrades Programme Team
Company Name
East Midlands Railway
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This nomination recognises a team that has consistently delivered exceptional results through collaboration, professionalism, and outstanding stakeholder management. Over the past few years, the team has taken on some of the most complex and high-profile projects within the organisation, balancing technical challenges with the need to maintain seamless daily operations and strong relationships with key partners.
A standout achievement has been the successful delivery of the significant works at Etches Park South shed. Despite the scale and complexity of the project, the team ensured completion without any operational disruption, demonstrating meticulous planning, proactive risk management, and clear communication. Every stage of the works was coordinated to maintain day-to-day operations, highlighting the team’s ability to deliver ambitious objectives while safeguarding critical services.
Central to this success has been the team’s exemplary stakeholder management. By cultivating strong, collaborative relationships with Network Rail, Siemens, the Department for Transport, and internal colleagues, they created an environment of shared purpose and trust. This approach enabled early identification of potential risks, smooth resolution of challenges, and efficient decision-making, ensuring that all stakeholders were aligned and confident in project delivery.
Alongside this, the team has also made a significant impact by leading the organisation’s safety programme. Delivered as a standalone workstream, this programme has improved the performance of the Health, Safety and Wellbeing plan and ensured investment was targeted where it delivered the greatest benefit. Their drive resulted in the highest utilisation of the SIF budget in recent years, maximising opportunities to deliver meaningful safety improvements. While safety runs through everything they do, the ability to take ownership of the safety programme and achieve such tangible outcomes is a clear demonstration of the team’s commitment to protecting people and raising standards across the business.
The team has also demonstrated a commitment to continuous improvement and capability development. They identified key skills gaps, particularly around construction contract management, and implemented training and mentoring to upskill team members. This investment in people has strengthened the team’s resilience, enhanced overall performance, and left a lasting legacy of knowledge and expertise within the organisation.
Their achievements have delivered measurable operational and financial benefits. Through successful negotiation and efficient delivery, they secured significant cost savings while keeping projects on schedule. Lessons learned from these works have informed wider programme delivery across the business, improving processes and approaches for future projects.
What sets this team apart is not just what they deliver, but how they deliver it. Their professionalism, foresight, and people-centred approach create an environment where challenges are met collaboratively, and successes are shared across the organisation. They have shown that even the most complex infrastructure projects can be delivered without compromise to safety, operational continuity, or stakeholder confidence.
For all these reasons, this nomination celebrates a team whose leadership, innovation, and dedication have made a tangible difference to the railway. They exemplify the values of excellence, collaboration, and impact, and are a deserving contender for recognition at the RailStaff Awards.
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Engineering Sales Suppression (ESS) Team
Company Name
Network Rail / Rail Delivery Group (Smarter Information, Smarter Journeys programme)
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ENGINEERING SALES SUPPRESSION
The nominated team is the Engineering Sales Suppression (ESS) team for the work undertaken to ensure customers cannot book onto train services the industry already knows will be cancelled due to all-line engineering works.
Customers can currently book onto train services the industry knows in advance will be cancelled due to all-line engineering works. Annually, two million email notifications are sent to customers notifying them of a change or cancellation to their service. Of that an estimated 80% of cancellations were related to planned engineering works, and all-line engineering works would have been a major contributor.
This creates poor customer experience; damages trust/harms the industry’s reputation. This has been a long-standing customer and industry pain-point which the industry found too challenging to tackle until the cross-industry Smarter Information, Smarter Journeys (SISJ) Programme accepted the challenge.
Engineering Sales Suppression was developed to resolve this problem by automatically detecting these affected services and preventing them from being sold on retail sites and journey planners.
By ensuring customers cannot buy a ticket for a service that will later be cancelled, ESS improves customer confidence and reduces the frustration and inconvenience associated with refund requests and amended journeys. A tailored bulletin message can be applied to explain why services are unavailable, helping customers understand and trust the information provided.
To deliver ESS, representatives from train operating companies (TOCs), Transport Focus, the ORR, Network Rail, and RDG shaped the requirements together. Feedback from TOCs and third-party retailers was gathered throughout development to ensure the solution worked effectively across all retail environments.
Strong collaboration between the SISJ project team, technical supplier (SilverRail), and industry stakeholders allowed issues to be identified and resolved quickly, ensuring the solution met the requirements and could be implemented smoothly. The team also made adoption simpler by providing practical support, including webinars, recorded demonstrations, user guides, and a dedicated portal.
ESS will form part of the industry retail accreditation standards, meaning that all retailers must implement it, so that all customers receive the benefit.
Once implemented, ESS will reduce the number of journey change notifications sent to customers and help operators open ticket sales earlier than the twelve-week window. This gives customers greater certainty at the point of purchase and reduces the likelihood of disruption later. ESS will also help minimise the administrative burden caused by refund requests for cancelled services.
Introducing ESS represents a significant operational improvement for retailers and long-distance operators. By addressing this long-standing pain-point, the project improves customer experience, strengthens trust in rail services, and supports the industry’s ambition to offer a more reliable and customer-focused service.
“For years, Transport Focus has been pressing the rail industry to stop selling tickets on trains that it knows cannot run. The Smarter Information, Smarter Journeys programme has rightly worked to solve this. The ‘engineering sales suppression’ tool has great potential to avoid it happening in the obvious scenario of a line being shut completely for engineering works.” Guy Dangerfield, Head of Strategy and Intelligence, Transport Focus
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Facilities Team
Company Name
GTR
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I have nominated the Facilities Team at GTR; as in my role as the Community Engagement Manager for GTR, I work with a range of station partners, charities and other voluntary sector groups who are all contributing to the improvement of the station environment; supporting positive mental health; driving environmental sustainability; creating educational and employment opportunities and increasing accessibility and diversity & inclusion across the railway and in the wider society. The Facilities team have always been enthusiastic in not only participating in these schemes, but also facilitating the development of projects such as the creation of a Pocket Park at Coulsdon South, community murals at numerous stations and the distribution of abandoned bikes to selected charities. The knowledge, experience and expertise the Facilities Team brings to projects has helped guide the projects by adapting and refining plans to deliver better outcomes; and manage the costs to the groups involved. This is all done with good-humour, a smile on their faces and a real dedication and commitment to contributing to improving the world around them; as well as managing the day-to-day work they have to do, to help keep the railway running - as examples of the work they have done I have added a file below
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George Barratt
Company Name
Network Rail
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I am proud to nominate George Barratt for recognition of his outstanding leadership in the successful delivery of the Chipping Sodbury Resilience Scheme. George has demonstrated exceptional commitment to delivering a safer and more reliable rail service for passengers, adopting a truly holistic systems engineering approach that addresses not only the technical challenges of climate resilience but also the wider social, environmental, and operational impacts.
Central to George’s achievement has been his ability to deeply understand the underlying issues affecting the resilience of the route and to design solutions that respond to both present and future climate pressures. His work has incorporated the pioneering use of monitoring technologies to generate real-time insights into asset performance and vulnerabilities, enabling proactive interventions that strengthen reliability under conditions of extreme weather.
Equally impressive has been George’s emphasis on collaboration and partnership. Recognising that climate resilience cannot be delivered in isolation, he has worked constructively with local government, the Environment Agency, and community stakeholders to align objectives, share data, and secure outcomes that deliver both operational safety and broader environmental benefits.
Through his dedication, technical excellence, and collaborative ethos, George Barratt has set a benchmark for how infrastructure resilience schemes should be conceived and delivered. His leadership of the Chipping Sodbury project not only safeguards passengers today but also establishes a model of good practice for future resilience projects across the rail network.
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GTR Infrastructure Project Team
Company Name
GTR
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I would like to nominate GTR Infrastructure Project Team for continuing to deliver exceptional projects, across our network, over the past 12 months the Infrastructure Project Team has been focussing on staff wellbeing, looking at under utilised space or space deemed unuseable to introduce wellbeing gardens at engineering depots, driver depots and stations, Selhurst, Three Bridges, St Albans this new innovation is looking at ways of improving staff personal and mental wellbeing, using outdoor areas, this also includes looking at preserving wildlife, by installing bug houses and bird boxes. A big part of the success for the project team is the involvement from all staff, with them contributing with the designs of the gardens, choosing and planting seasonal flowers and shrubs, its been an amazing experience and rewarding for those that have been involved station staff, depot staff, project team and contractors, morale has been lifted and a very positive outlook for future outdoor schemes, to make our workplace a better place The team planned for the seasons and already planning for next summers flowers.
Delivering a Smart Meter programme at all GTR stations, making these transformational changes benefits our retailers and the business, the new digital devices, automatically sends electricity consumption data to the energy supplier for accurate billing, enhances sustainability by providing real-time energy data, the complex programme works alongside Utility providers within several regions, looking at tong terms gains and savings.
GTR introduced the Class 379 trains into its fleet to support its Great Northern and Thameslink services, adding 30 four-car units originally built for the Stansted Express, this in utilising existing stock from another TOC reduces waste and carbon footprint whilst benefiting the passenger. This has been a collaboration of teamwork spanning over multiple teams within GTR and NR.
The team shows commitment and enthusiasm at all levels which makes them a deserving candidate for 'Rail Team of the Year Award'
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GWR Somerset Alliance, Dwain White, Paul Cadwallader, Louise Lucas.
Company Name
Great Western Railway
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Youth Anti-Social Behaviour Reduction: Taunton to Bristol Corridor
In May 2024, Great Western Railway (GWR) initiated a collaborative response to a growing problem of youth anti-social behaviour along the Taunton to Bristol corridor. This issue had led to service delays, cancellations, and a negative impact on both staff and customers. GWR reached out to Network Rail, British Transport Police (BTP), local police forces, schools, Pupil Referral Units (PRUs), the Severnside Community Rail Partnership, local authorities, charities like Unique Voice and Railway Children, and other agencies.
This corridor had seen rising levels of youth-related incidents including abuse, assaults, and unsafe behaviour at stations and on trains. These incidents caused concern for the safety of young people, led to staff sickness, and disrupted operations. In response, the multi-agency initiative was launched to tackle the problem holistically.
Since the start of this collaboration, incident reports have significantly decreased. Staff who were previously anxious or fearful now report improved working conditions. Youth behaviour has improved, allowing for constructive conversations about safety and appropriate public conduct. The initiative has not only addressed immediate concerns but also fostered strong partnerships between organisations, laying the groundwork for sustained safety and community outreach.
Community Engagement and Behaviour Management
Leadership & Staff Support:
Paul Cadwallender and the Taunton Revenue Protection Inspectors (RPIs) took a leading role in building positive relationships with the young people involved.
Dwain White offered frontline support to on-board and station staff, addressing concerns directly.
The Revenue Protection Team handled several serious incidents, including one in Nailsea where a young person had to be restrained for their own safety.
Louise Lucas set up meetings with Network Rail and BTP have ensured information sharing and strategic alignment with local police and agencies.
Youth Engagement & Prevention:
Large group sessions were delivered in local schools, alongside smaller, targeted sessions in four PRUs, including ongoing work with Bridge PRU.
One-on-one meetings with identified youths helped reflect on behaviour and promote positive change.
Intelligence-sharing with BTP and PRUs helped track individuals' movements and identify patterns of behaviour.
For the first time, PRU students were allowed supervised train travel as part of a behavioural awareness programme.
Group sessions and workshops were held at Bridgwater Community Room, led by Unique Voice, focusing on respect and positive behaviour.
The Way Forward
The team remains committed to preventing further incidents and sharing successful practices with other train operating companies (TOCs) across the network. Staff now confidently engage with young people without fear of abuse or service disruption. The team regularly attends working groups and safeguarding conferences, sharing their experiences and promoting a new way of addressing behavioural challenges.
Relationships with local schools and PRUs continue to strengthen, providing long-term impact. The success of the initiative reflects the importance of collaborative, community-focused approaches.
"If we keep doing things the same way, we’ll always get the same results. Try something different."
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IT Mobile Team
Company Name
ScotRail Trains Ltd
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Transforming ScotRail's Mobile Estate:
The ScotRail Mobile team deserves recognition for the outstanding delivery of a complex and high-impact project that transformed our mobile estate and the way colleagues across the business use technology every day. Faced with an outdated system of deteriorating devices, limited storage, slow performance, poor battery life, and reliance on an external provider, the team took ownership of the entire mobile estate to deliver a modern, secure, and business-driven solution.
In just six months, this small team of four successfully refreshed over 5000 mobile devices across Scotland, moved 4000 connections to a new provider, introduced a new device management solution, and created new roles within the team to support the long-term strategy. They overcame significant logistical and technical challenges while ensuring every colleague was supported and engaged throughout the process.
To ensure the project delivered real value, the team placed colleague input at the heart of their approach. They organised mobile roadshows at more than 30 stations and depots, showcasing device options and capturing feedback on what would best meet operational needs. This collaborative approach not only ensured the right solutions were chosen but also built trust and buy-in from staff.
The team then carried out a detailed evaluation of devices, network providers, and mobile solutions, balancing technical performance, network coverage, security, customer service, and cost. The final decision delivered a reliable, secure, and best-value solution for the business.
Execution of the rollout was a major undertaking. Every driver tablet and phone was individually configured with the new Intune management system, Zscaler, and authenticator for enhanced security. The team managed the administrative complexity of transferring thousands of mobile numbers within strict time limits, avoiding costly expirations. Communication was carefully coordinated with each area to make sure staff knew what to expect, and additional temporary staff were recruited and managed to support deployment.
Despite these pressures, the team also supported a high intake of new colleagues joining the business, ensuring they were equipped with devices from day one. Even after the rollout, they demonstrated their commitment to continual improvement by launching a feedback survey and visiting locations again to provide tailored support. They also arranged the recycling of old devices, generating revenue and ensuring environmental responsibility.
This project has delivered tangible benefits across the business: faster, more reliable devices; improved colleague satisfaction; stronger data security, and significant cost savings. Most importantly, it has put control of our mobile estate back into ScotRail’s hands, building in-house expertise for the future.
The Mobile team’s achievement is a clear example of initiative, collaboration, and dedication going far beyond day-to-day responsibilities. The project has made a real difference to thousands of colleagues and to the business as a whole.
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James Allman-Wright
Company Name
Network Rail
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James Allman-Wright has made an outstanding contribution to sustainability by tackling one of the railway’s hidden challenges — unused and “offline” stock sitting in depots. His innovative approach has not only reduced waste and unnecessary procurement but also delivered significant financial savings and efficiency gains.
James recognised that millions of pounds worth of materials and equipment were sitting idle in depots, often surplus from past projects or held for “just in case” scenarios. Left unnoticed, this stock frequently perishes, becomes outdated, or is replaced unnecessarily, leading to wasted money and resources.
Through determination and ingenuity, James created a system to identify, recover, and re-allocate this “lost” stock. By finding a new home for materials across the business, he ensures that components are used where they are needed rather than being left to deteriorate. This approach has directly reduced procurement of new stock, cutting waste and lowering the organisation’s carbon footprint.
It is estimated that more than £50 million worth of stock sits unused across Delivery Units nationally. Thanks to James’s persistence, a new trial has now been established to allow Delivery Units to list their offline stock, making it visible and accessible across Network Rail. This breakthrough means that teams can source what they need from existing resources, rather than buying new materials.
James has been described as the “Network Rail version of eBay” — hunting down surplus or hidden stock, identifying opportunities for reuse, and transferring it to teams who need it. His efforts have turned waste into value, supported sustainable resource management, and saved his DU thousands of pounds that can now be reinvested into frontline delivery.
This is more than just stock management: it is a cultural shift in how we think about resources. By challenging the status quo, James has shown leadership, innovation, and vision, proving that sustainable practice can be both environmentally responsible and financially smart.
In summary, James Allman-Wright is driving sustainability from the ground up, reducing waste, cutting carbon, and ensuring that valuable resources are put to use. His initiative is a model of how the railway can become more efficient, responsible, and sustainable for the future.
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Jane White (Customer Experience Training Team) Pam Byrne (Retail Team), Jacqui Bennett (Retail Team) Peter England (Audit Team) Michelle Trevena (Learn Team) Barbara Harahwa (Learn Team) Cintia Menezes (L&D Admin) Kerryn Howard (L&D Admin)
Company Name
South Western Railway
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I am honoured to nominate Jane, Pam, Peter, the Learn Team, and the CEx Admin Team for this award. This incredible group, representing five different SWR teams, designed and delivered an industry-first Retail Refresher course that has already benefited over 150 colleagues, with a goal of reaching more than 300 annually. Their collaborative spirit has not only addressed a critical business need but has also set a new standard for training and engagement across the entire organisation.
While our SWR retailing colleagues receive thorough initial training, an opportunity to refresh their knowledge had never existed. With the rail industry's ever-changing ticketing landscape, a clear need to update their skills was identified. The biggest challenge was the sheer number of colleagues requiring this vital training, which had to be managed alongside a significant increase in SWR’s regular training schedule. The team was tasked with finding a solution that was not only effective and engaging but also cost-efficient and minimally disruptive.
The solution came from a powerful cross-functional collaboration. Jane, Pam, and Peter, from separate teams, dove into the project to design a course specifically for our experienced Retail colleagues. The goal, to make the training relevant, supportive, and informative. Boosting colleague engagement, reducing audit red flags, and, most importantly, improving our customers' experience.
Jane, only two months into her role, designed a full-day workshop based on real-world feedback. To gain crucial buy-in, the course was trialled with SWR Retail Coaches. This is where the Customer Experience Training Admin Team proved indispensable, expertly handling the massive logistical challenge of arranging rooms and coordinating colleague releases across the entire network.
Using feedback from the coaches, the course was refined and also introduced collaborative delivery — a Customer Experience Trainer would lead the session, while Peter, a Retail & Audit Trainer, would deliver the critical PCI compliance. This innovative approach ensured the training was practical and immediately applicable.
The project also pioneered a new use for the SWR Learn system (LMS). The Learn Team went above and beyond, pushing the system's capabilities to enable pre-course work and automated learning records—a feat that had never been accomplished before.
The official launch of the course was on January 9, 2025. Since then, 24 refresher sessions have been held, with over 150 colleagues receiving the training.
The results are already tangible. SWR's Audit Team has seen a significant decrease in Audit "Red Flags" (over 25% in areas specifically targeted by the course content) since the trials in October 2024.
The entire project, from its conception to its official launch, took five months and was completed at minimal cost. Everyone involved incorporated this demanding project into their existing duties, showcasing extraordinary commitment.
The project's success has created a powerful ripple effect. It has not only established a permanent annual refresher course, but its success has also inspired a similar Rail Operator Refresher, set to launch in January 2026. These teams' dedication and innovative thinking have set a new standard for collaboration within SWR. They truly deserve this award.
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Jenny Dempsey
Company Name
Diamond Rail
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Heathrow Rail are proud to nominate Jenny Dempsey, Managing Director of Diamond Rail, for her outstanding contribution and dedication to enhancing the passenger experience and improving the operational efficiency of seat maintenance on our POD vehicle fleet.
Jenny led a comprehensive review of the seating across our 21 POD vehicles. Under her leadership, Diamond Rail carried out a full refurbishment of every seat, replacing the foam and leather to significantly enhance comfort and aesthetics. They also identified and resolved a long-standing bracket issue on the seat bases, improving durability and reliability.
Demonstrating forward-thinking innovation, Jenny proposed a clever solution to make the seat fabric removable. This enables our team to quickly and easily replace damaged covers, reducing the likelihood of taking vehicles out of service, improving turnaround times, and ensuring our fleet consistently meets high standards for our passengers.
Jenny and her team at Diamond Rail are now supporting the refurbishment of an older POD vehicle, with the aim of bringing it up to the same standard as the rest of the fleet. She has been instrumental in driving continuous improvement through her collaborative and solution-focused approach.
Thanks to Jenny’s vision, expertise, and hands-on involvement, the POD system has seen a tangible uplift in quality and efficiency. We have formed a fantastic partnership and look forward to further collaboration with Diamond Rail at Heathrow.
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Laura Quinn
Company Name
Transport for London
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I want to recognise Laura Quinn, A young Project Manager is someone who truly driven and is always delivers. She is not the type of person who promotes herself but having worked alongside her, she really strives to succeed, is focused and is a joy to work with! She boosts everyone’s morale, who works with her. I've been working in the rail industry for 18 years and out of all the people I've worked with, and I've worked with a lot of fantastic people, Laura is my favourite colleague! And she is early on in her career showing a lot of promise and potential.
Although she successfully delivered many projects, I want to showcase Laura's Shirley Hills Road Crossing project which was constructed in April 2025, a project under £5m. The project is located on the London Trams network between Coombe Lane and Gravel Hill Tram stops. The works consists of road crossings renewal, ballasted track renewal and drainage renewals works. Other Key features within the site extents are a pedestrian foot crossing and the highway crossing.
I had a unique opportunity to be a small part of the project during delivery whilst Laura took some time off for paternity leave. The delivery came with its challenges but everyone working on that project has said it was a pleasure working on Shirley Hills which I whole-hearted agree with.
She is excellent at building rapports with key stakeholders and suppliers; she on-boarded a new Principal Contractor, Trackwork Ltd, to London Trams and I could see the open and honest relationship that she had built with that contractor.
The Shirley Hills project had logistical constraints due to the site being on the out skirts of Croydon located on a busy main road. Laura began consultations with key stakeholders early on, to ensure the optimal way to construct the project whilst minimizing disruption to the travelling public.
Laura hosted value and sustainability workshops working with designers, TfL Engineers, suppliers and Principal Contractor to seek innovative solutions and modularise as the road crossing by building the road crossing off site and installing them on site as panels to ensure a more sustainable solution and a method of delivery which minimised disruption to the travelling public by speeding up the installation. She further challenged the designers for sustainable solutions in her workshops, doing value engineering optioneering to promote TfL’s Carbon Capital Challenge.
I just wanted to reiterate Laura’s talent, as her peers has had many years in project management, and Laura is still very early on in her career but you would not know this. I started working with Laura in March 2024 where we she was given the opportunity to lead the delivery one of London Trams’ biggest projects, East Croydon and George Street Embedded Track Renewal in two closures, a 14 day blockade and 26 days blockade. And since then, she has been entrusted to deliver multiple projects concurrently. I also would like to mention Abdul Karama who is her Assistant Project Manager.
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TfW's On-Board Catering Team
Company Name
Transport for Wales
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Background:
Between April and June 2025, Transport for Wales’ onboard catering team delivered an innovative project, bringing Michelin-level dining to First Class passengers on Wales’ train network (Cardiff-Manchester and Cardiff-Holyhead). Working with the acclaimed Michelin-starred chef James Sommerin, the team introduced an eight-week bespoke menu celebrating the best of Welsh cuisine.
This was never simply about food. The project was designed to give passengers a reason to elevate their journey – to see First Class as a treat worth taking. By offering a fine-dining experience unique to Wales, the catering team were tasked with transforming the journey itself into something memorable, while also showcasing the strength of Wales’ modern culinary scene.
The challenge:
Delivering a fine-dining menu on a moving train is no ordinary task. The onboard galleys are compact, with limited storage, restricted equipment, and the constant unpredictability of working in motion. Unlike a restaurant kitchen, there was no room for error and no luxury of time or space. Yet the TfW catering team were tasked with delivering a fine-dining menu created by a Michelin-starred chef, upholding his exacting standards of flavour, presentation and consistency. Meeting that expectation required technical skill, resilience, adaptability and exceptional teamwork.
Teamwork in action:
Preparation was meticulous. TfW’s Head Chef, Mark Roberts, worked one-to-one with James Sommerin at his Michelin-starred restaurant, Home in Penarth, to refine a menu that could be realistically delivered in the unique conditions onboard. Mark’s role was critical in bridging the gap between representing James’ Michelin brand and operational feasibility, ensuring the dishes could be mastered within the team’s skillset and the physical constraints of an onboard kitchen.
He then led his colleagues through intensive training with James Sommerin at TfW’s prep kitchen in Newport. Here, chefs mastered each dish, honed fine-dining presentation, and adapted cooking methods to work with onboard equipment.
The catering team embraced the challenge wholeheartedly. Because of the menu’s complexity and the limited galley space onboard, Head Chef Mark Roberts led extensive preparation in TfW’s prep kitchen before each service. Sauces, desserts and vegetables were carefully crafted in advance, allowing final elements such as searing, reheating and plating to be completed onboard without compromising quality or freshness.
Still, a large amount of work was needed to do onboard the trains. Chefs demonstrated skill and precision in preparing intricate dishes under difficult conditions, while the service team delivered them with warmth, professionalism, and pride. Despite the pressures of long shifts and varying routes, the team consistently maintained standards, showing resilience and commitment from start to finish.
Achievement and impact:
This project was more than a limited-edition menu – it was a milestone for rail hospitality.
The catering team not only upskilled to meet Michelin-level expectations but also elevated the reputation of rail dining in Wales and the UK. Their efforts directly contributed to increased First Class uptake (up 32.6% YOY), improved customer satisfaction, and pride across Transport for Wales. They demonstrated that with passion, training, and teamwork, even the most ambitious projects can succeed onboard.
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The Greatest Gathering
Company Name
Alstom
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The Greatest Gathering (1-3 August 2025) was a landmark celebration held at Alstom’s Derby Litchurch Lane Works, marking 200 years since the birth of the modern railway. For three days, the UK’s largest and oldest operating train factory transformed into a family-friendly festival site, welcoming over 40,000 visitors. The event presented the world’s largest-ever gathering of historic and modern rail vehicles, including steam engines Locomotion No. 1, Furness Railway No. 20 and Flying Scotsman, alongside cutting-edge rolling stock built in Derby today. It also marked the first time in almost 50 years that the UK’s largest train factory had opened its doors to the public.
Organised entirely in-house by a small team working alongside their day jobs, the execution of the event was supported across the three days by over 350 Alstom volunteers and several hundred more from the wider industry and heritage sector.
In addition to the exhibits, there was a whole host of other events and activities that took place across the 90-acre site, including immersive science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) activities for youngsters, rides behind steam, diesel and electric-hauled trains of various gauges, and talks from industry experts in the purpose-built Mobility Theatre. The event drew national and international media attention, reaching a combined audience of over 12 billion from almost 500 outlets in 23 countries.
Praised for its scale, organisation and inclusivity, The Greatest Gathering united the rail industry and public in a celebration of heritage, innovation and future possibilities. As part of the broader Railway 200 festivities, it stands as a defining moment in British history and also showcased the 'railway family' at its best. Furthermore, the sold-out event raised over £60,000 for Railway 200's charity partners (Alzheimer's Research UK, Railway Benefit Fund, Railway Children, Railway Mission and Transport Benevolent Fund).
What further set it apart to similar events was its emotional depth and community spirit. The Greatest Gathering brought together people from all background – from senior industry leaders to families living close to the factory – all linked by one thing; a love of the railways. Organisers aimed for the event to be as welcoming and inclusive as possible, highlighted by the fact that it also featured the world’s first Pride parade on a train. In addition, fairground attractions, street food vendors and live music performances took place across the three days, further adding to the festival feel.
As the flagship of the national Railway 200 programme, The Greatest Gathering united history, innovation and storytelling – transforming a working rail site into a living celebration of the past, present and future of mobility.
Watch a highlights reel from the event here: https://youtu.be/ZMMo5jdadFY
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The Mor Brook landslip team
Company Name
Severn Valley Railway
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When a catastrophic landslip at Mor Brook bridge struck the Severn Valley Railway (SVR) in early 2025, it left the heritage line unable to operate a full service, running only 12 of its 16 miles. Passenger numbers plummeted, with a direct impact on revenue. For a heritage railway run on tight margins, this was an existential threat.
The challenge ahead was immense: a collapsed wing wall, 1,500 tonnes of displaced material, complex engineering in a watercourse requiring Environment Agency approval, and almost no spare money or manpower. Yet the solution was delivered in just six months, against all odds, thanks to a remarkable team effort and innovative cross-industry collaboration.
From the outset, SVR’s internal teams (Engineering, Operations, Permanent Way, and Finance) pulled together to assess damage, secure critical insurance support, and determine a path forward. Their early work gathering evidence ensured the insurance claim could be validated quickly, enabling works to begin without delay.
Once appointed, external contractor CML was fully integrated into the SVR team. A shared commitment to the railway’s future fostered seamless coordination, with CML even adjusting its work programme to accommodate an ambitious reopening target with the presence of the iconic Flying Scotsman. This deadline was both a motivator and a logistical challenge, requiring significant weekend and out-of-hours working.
When unforeseen flooding threatened to halt work at a crucial stage, the team responded with resilience and agility, diverting resources, adapting the plan, and maintaining momentum.
The final, transformative phase of the project saw the assembly of a 50-strong volunteer workforce, affectionately dubbed the ‘Orange Army Volunteer All-Stars’, drawn through sheer goodwill from across the UK rail industry. Main line companies stepped forward with equipment, personnel, and expertise at no cost to the SVR, allowing track reinstatement that would have taken three weeks to be completed in just a few days.
There were invaluable contributions from: A P Webb, AWE Technologies, Balfour Beatty, Central Rail Systems Alliance, CML, Colas, Crown Group, Forestry Rail & Civils Ltd, Ganymede Solutions, Interflon, Network Rail, Rail Power and Construction Ltd, Shannon Rail, Staytite, Vital, and VP Rail.
The SVR’s Communications team ensured all-important public engagement throughout, sharing progress, telling the story, and attracting widespread attention, including a visit and viral video from TikTok legend Francis Bourgeois, bringing the project to the attention of millions. This activity galvanised public support and donations, and kept the community invested in the line’s future.
In just six months, through exceptional teamwork, tight coordination, and sheer determination, the bridge was rebuilt, the line reopened with ‘Flying Scotsman’ at the head of the first service, and the SVR’s future secured. For the Severn Valley Railway, this was not just a project, it was survival.
A project of modest financial scale, yet enormous strategic importance, the team delivering the reinstatement of Mor Brook bridge demonstrated the very best of planning, innovation, and industry-wide teamwork, achieving results far beyond expectations and delivering lasting impact for heritage rail and the wider rail community.
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15
RAIL AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR AWARD
This award honours an individual who has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to promoting and advancing the rail industry. Established in memory of Tom O’Connor, the founder of Rail Media and the RailStaff Awards, it celebrates those who champion the industry, inspire others, and drive positive change through advocacy and leadership.
Example job titles in this category:
Everyone!
You can see all the past winners here.
Abu Siddeeq
Company Name
c2c
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Nomination: Tom O’Connor Industry Champion Award – Abu Siddeeq
This award celebrates individuals who champion the rail industry, inspire others and drive positive change through advocacy and leadership. Abu Siddeeq exemplifies that spirit. In his leadership roles at c2c, Abu has consistently promoted the value of rail to society, strengthened public trust and led with integrity through significant organisational change.
Abu is widely regarded as a guardian of the sector’s values, balancing commercial focus with public accountability and inclusion. During the TUPE transition to public ownership in early 2025, he led with transparency, empathy and rigorous stakeholder engagement. His approach ensured a process that was not only legally robust but emotionally intelligent, minimising disruption, sustaining morale and retaining talent while strengthening trust with unions, colleagues and partners. Post-transition, he guided sensitive pay discussions across all staff groups, achieving agreements that balanced fairness with fiscal responsibility.
As a visible advocate for rail’s purpose and potential, Abu regularly represents the industry in national and regional forums. He represented c2c at its first Parliamentary Reception at the House of Commons, hosted the Rail Minister’s first visit to the route since 2018 and frequently engages at Essex Chamber of Commerce events, in Westminster and on-route, most recently at the Chamber’s AGM. His community-facing advocacy is equally impactful: marking 30 years of Chafford Hundred station with Fatima Whitbread MBE, speaking at Southend Youth Council, launching the Kick4Kindness football tournament, serving as a male ally at International Women’s Day events in 2024 and 2025 and supporting Thurrock Council’s Fostering campaign by openly sharing his and his wife Rhukshanda’s family experience to inspire others to step forward.
Abu couples advocacy with tangible outcomes that advance the sector’s reputation. Under his leadership, c2c delivered a new Customer Experience strategy, with Net Promoter Score (NPS) averaging +42 against an industry average of -20, and a 16.5% year-on-year increase. Transport Focus placed c2c in the top three for overall customer satisfaction. Internally, customer satisfaction rose by 1.5%, complaints reduced by 18% year-on-year and the people survey saw “Customer experience taken seriously” rise by 11 points. Over three years, Customer Experience engagement scores increased by 14%, reflecting frontline empowerment and service innovation that translate into better journeys and stronger public confidence.
Abu’s move to interim HR & Communications in 2025 demonstrated agile, values-led leadership. He unified teams around a shared purpose, reinforced open communication and embedded inclusive practices from reverse mentoring and open forums to regular one-to-one coaching so colleagues at every level could thrive and lead. Externally, his calm, candid communications with media, government bodies and passenger groups have helped demystify complex issues and reframe rail as a resilient, customer-centred public good.
In the spirit of Tom O’Connor, Abu’s record shows unwavering commitment to promoting and advancing rail. He champions the sector in Parliament and communities alike, inspires colleagues and citizens through visible allyship and mentorship and delivers positive, measurable change through principled leadership. Abu is not only a leader within c2c, he is a steward of the industry’s future.
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Ben Goodwin
Company Name
Alstom
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Ben Goodwin, Communications Director UK and Ireland at Alstom, has redefined what it means to be a rail ambassador through his visionary leadership of The Greatest Gathering – the flagship event of Railway 200 and one of the most ambitious public celebrations in the history of our railways.
Held at Alstom’s historic Litchurch Lane site in Derby, The Greatest Gathering marked the first time in nearly 50 years that Britain’s largest and oldest operating train factory had opened its doors to the public. Over three days, more than 140 iconic rail vehicles from past, present and future were showcased across the 90-acre site, drawing more than 40,000 visitors from around the world. The record-breaking event not only celebrated 200 years since the Stockton & Darlington Railway opened, but it also inspired a new generation of rail professionals and enthusiasts.
Ben’s role was pivotal. Among other responsibilities, he was the architect of the event’s communications strategy, where he led cross-functional teams, coordinated regional, national and internation media, and secured high-profile coverage across platforms including BBC Breakfast, BBC Radio 2 and The Telegraph. In fact, coverage from The Greatest Gathering reached a combined audience of over 12 billion from almost 500 outlets in 23 countries. Meanwhile, his behind-the-scenes interviews and public engagements positioned Alstom as a proud custodian of railway heritage and a champion of its future.
For example:
BBC News: www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cg50d4p4dnpo
Green Signals: www.youtube.com/live/wlUjGOJv6Ec?si=ORu-...
Geoff Marshall: https://youtu.be/9K-e5Cr62vg?si=VlbOY9Gs...
Beyond media, Ben’s leadership extended to operational excellence. He played a central role in safety planning, stakeholder engagement and volunteer coordination. In the final weeks, he helped steer critical decisions on crowd management, train movements and safeguarding, ensuring a seamless and secure experience for all. His attention to detail and calm under pressure were instrumental in managing the complexities of a live rail environment transformed into a public festival.
Ben also ensured the event had lasting impact. As well as inspiring the next generation of rail leaders through its science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) offering for younger visitors, all profits were donated to Railway 200’s partner charities. Plus, he personally engaged with heritage groups, industry partners and international organisations to foster collaboration and inclusivity, with the world’s first Pride parade on a train being one of the many initiatives he initiated as part of the festival.
What sets Ben apart is his ability to connect people to purpose. Whether briefing volunteers, liaising with the press, or welcoming guests, he embodies the spirit of the railway community – passionate, professional and profoundly people-focused. His nomination for the RailStaff Awards 2025 is not only well-deserved but emblematic of the values this award seeks to honour.
Ben Goodwin is not just a communications leader, he is a rail ambassador in the truest sense. Through The Greatest Gathering – the world’s largest-ever railway festival – he has delivered a legacy event that celebrated the past, energised the present and continues to inspire the future of rail.
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Bessie Matthews
Company Name
GB Railfreight
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I’ve known Bessie since our school days, and now, as a mum to two young boys, I see her in a whole new light. She’s not just the girl I sat next to in class anymore, she’s someone my kids can genuinely look up to.
My boys are both obsessed with trains, and I can honestly say a big part of that comes from Bessie. When they watch her videos or see her children’s book, Arlo’s Adventures, they’re captivated. She doesn’t just show trains as machines; she brings them to life. She makes the railway feel like an exciting, magical place that’s also full of real people doing important jobs. For my sons, seeing someone I can proudly say is “my friend from school” makes it even more special.
What makes Bessie stand out is her ability to connect. She speaks to people with the same passion she shows when explaining her job to kids. She can make a six-year-old excited about freight trains, and she can make adults rethink how vital rail is to our country. That’s a real gift.
She’s always been creative, but the way she channels that into rail is amazing. From painting ballast to raise money, to designing things that end up on real trains, to climbing mountains with the Railway Children charity, she gives her whole heart to every project. She does it all while making rail feel open, especially for women and young people who might not have seen a place for themselves in it before.
As a mum, I want my boys to grow up believing they can achieve anything, and seeing someone like Bessie proves it’s true. She’s shown that with determination, kindness, and a bit of imagination, you can carve out a space in a tough looking industry and make a real difference.
Bessie is more than just a brilliant driver. She’s an ambassador in the truest sense of the word: someone who represents rail with pride, who inspires the next generation, and who does it all with warmth and authenticity. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award.
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Camille Parchment
Company Name
Avanti West Coast
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Amongst the hustle and bustle of Birmingham New Street station, one of the largest interchange stations in England, Camille Parchment works as a Customer Service Assistant – primarily based in the ticket office – going above and beyond for customers daily.
But her commitment to making a difference doesn’t end there. Often described by her colleagues as the heart of the New Street community, Camille works tirelessly to inject positivity and purpose into both the back-of-house employee area and the customer facing concourse.
Driven by the power of inclusivity, Camille’s focus is to make sure that everyone – colleagues and customers alike – is recognised and heard through a combination of community projects, charity work and organising events. Her edge is the knowledge that her role isn’t just about helping people get from A to B, it’s about using her determination to ensure every voice is heard to create a lasting impression in customers’ minds as they travel.
Her most notable achievement is managing the Black History Month event for colleagues that happens once a year in October. With the help from others in her team, Camille focuses on a different culture each year, celebrating its heritage through decorations, music, authentic food provided by local caterers and raising funds for local charities. The most recent event in October 2024, saw local Birmingham businesses donating prizes for a raffle that raised over £660.00 for O.S.C.A.R Sandwell, a local charity in West Bromwich that supports those affected by Sickle Cell Anaemia and Thalassaemia.
Always focusing on championing the diverse culture of the UK’s second city, Camille is frequently decorating the New Street ticket office with displays to raise awareness for other celebrations such as Eid, Diwali and Chinese New Year.
Alongside this, you will frequently find banners erected in the ticket office that have been donated off the back of the relationships Camille has built with local charities, including Love Brum, Feedo Needo and the Birmingham Hospice.
Approaching each day with a “what more can we be doing?” frame of mind, Camille has also raised money for charities that support elderly and vulnerable individuals with food hampers, and for Age UK.
Her commitment to ensuring everyone has a voice is infectious and led to her being named Community Champion at Avanti West Coast’s internal Excellence Awards in May 2025, where she was recognised by Managing Director, Andy Mellors, as having received the most nominations of everyone throughout all the categories.
Camille deserves to be recognised within the industry as positively as she is within Avanti West Coast. She is always very expressive that her efforts aren’t a solo project, recognising that she has an extremely supportive team around her and a manager that allows her to bring her visions to life within the station. As a business we believe she needs to be awarded, which is why we are nominating her for Rail Ambassador of the Year.
Supporting media coverage for Camille Parchment:
• Rail Business Daily: https://news.railbusinessdaily.com/life-...
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Douglas Thomson
Company Name
ScotRail
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Douglas or Dougie as he likes to be called, has a passion for all things railway,
He started working with ScotRail 9 years ago as a GPR and has proven to be a brilliant team member, being totally flexible with his roster even at short notice. He has worked in the ticket offices at 12 different stations working on his own and adapting to every situation with immense confidence and control. He has recently taken on the role as SGC at Dumfries and his training skills are second to none and always at the end of the phone for advice and assistance. He's a great favourite with passenger passing through the station.
Last year he expanded a small museum display in the old kiosk at Dumfries railway station into an exhibition where people can visit to learn about the wonderful railway history in this area and nationally too. The "Dumfries railway heritage centre" has a fantastic array of books, DVDs, pictures and railwayana on display as well as a working model railway display. It has become a very popular attraction for the station and it's achievements is being noticed nationally through Facebook, YouTube and on TV. Borderlife did an presentation in May about the heritage centre and showcased his passion for everything railway. https://www.itv.com/watch/news/catch-up-...
His unwavering passion for his work in both the railway and related interests is unwavering and his dedication to teach and encourage others is unrivalled.
I believe he deserves recognition for his efforts to promote the railway, not only for it's future but for it's past as well.
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Gregory March
Company Name
Network Rail
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I am pleased to nominate Gregory March, Freight Business Development Manager South for Network Rail, for the Rail Ambassador of the Year Award. Gregory exemplifies the dedication, passion, and leadership that this award seeks to recognise. His unwavering commitment to advancing the rail industry, particularly the rail freight sector, makes him an ideal candidate for this honour. Through his efforts, he has made significant contributions to shaping the future of rail freight in the UK.
In his role at Network Rail, Gregory plays a pivotal role in driving rail freight growth. His proactive approach to business development sees him continually pursuing new opportunities with both existing and potential customers, working tirelessly to expand freight traffic across the rail network. Gregory’s work has been crucial in delivering numerous new freight sites and flows, greatly increasing the capacity and capabilities of the sector.
Gregory stands out as an advocate for rail freight, often the "forgotten partner" in the railway network. Rail freight, while crucial to the UK’s economy, frequently receives less attention than passenger services. Gregory passionately promotes the importance of rail freight, reminding stakeholders, policymakers, and the public of its vital role in maintaining supply chains, driving economic growth, and reducing the environmental impact of road haulage. His advocacy is key to raising the profile of rail freight, ensuring it receives the recognition and investment it deserves.
What distinguishes Gregory is his broader vision for the future of rail freight. He has been instrumental in authoring and promoting industry commodity digests, which provide valuable insights into emerging opportunities for rail freight. These digests enable businesses to identify new ways to utilise the network and ensure the sector’s continued growth. Gregory’s work not only promotes the current benefits of rail freight but positions it as a vital player in future supply chain solutions.
Gregory is also deeply involved in industry forums, both within Network Rail and externally. He advocates for rail freight’s role in the economy and the environment, inspiring others to engage with and support the sector. His leadership and insights have shaped strategic initiatives, helping secure increased recognition and support for rail freight. As a keynote speaker at events such as TransCityRail Midlands, Gregory highlights the crucial role regional infrastructure and freight networks play in economic growth, job creation, and sustainability.
Beyond his advocacy, Gregory is committed to inspiring the next generation of rail professionals. He actively promotes careers in rail freight by presenting to project management apprentices and working with Generation Logistics to encourage young people to pursue rail freight careers. His dedication to nurturing talent ensures the future success of the industry.
Gregory March’s dedication to rail freight, his advocacy, and his leadership make him an outstanding candidate for the Rail Ambassador of the Year Award. His tireless efforts have positively impacted the rail freight sector and inspired others to contribute to its continued growth. Gregory’s contributions have left a lasting mark on the sector, and he is truly deserving of this recognition.
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Jon Bradley
Company Name
GTS
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Jon Bradley exemplifies everything the Rail Ambassador of the Year award stands for. His unwavering dedication to the rail industry, combined with his passion for mentoring and inspiring newcomers, makes him a standout candidate for this recognition.
Jon has consistently gone above and beyond to support those entering the industry, helping them develop a genuine love for rail through his guidance, encouragement, and infectious enthusiasm. He is a proud and active member of CIRO (South East Area Council), demonstrating his commitment to professional development and industry standards. His own journey of personal growth from performance improvement roles to a pivotal, operational role within control reflects his relentless focus on the customer and his drive to make a meaningful impact.
Jon’s contributions extend far beyond his day-to-day role on the Elizabeth line. He played a key part in organising the farewell tour for the Class 315 stock, a heartfelt tribute that resonated with colleagues and rail enthusiasts alike. Through this initiative, Jon showcased his deep respect for rail heritage and his ability to bring people together to celebrate it.
A true ambassador, Jon uses his social media presence to promote transparency and share insights into the rail industry. His posts are informative, engaging, and always aimed at showcasing the value and excitement of working in rail. He has become a trusted voice, helping to demystify the industry and attract new talent.
Jon’s story is one of passion, leadership, and service. His tireless efforts to uplift others, his commitment to continuous improvement, and his ability to connect with people make him an ideal candidate for Rail Ambassador of the Year. He doesn’t just work in rail he lives and breathes it, and he inspires others to do the same.
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Jonathan 'Gus' Dunster
Company Name
Severn Valley Railway
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Jonathan ‘Gus’ Dunster exemplifies everything this award seeks to recognise: visionary leadership, advocacy, and a lifelong dedication to advancing the railway industry.
With a 39-year career to date, Gus brought extraordinary industry expertise and credibility to the Severn Valley Railway (SVR) when he became Managing Director in 2023. He joined at a time of acute challenge for the organisation, which was financially stretched, recovering from the post-Covid downturn, and facing questions about its long-term sustainability. Since then, he has led a transformative turnaround that has stabilised the SVR, rejuvenated its purpose, and elevated its standing within both the heritage and national rail sectors.
At the heart of Gus’s impact is his unwavering belief that heritage rail is not an isolated niche but an integral, living part of the broader UK rail ecosystem. Under his leadership, the SVR has forged groundbreaking partnerships with Colas, GB Railfreight, Harsco, Rail Adventure and others, opening up new opportunities for mutual training, testing, infrastructure sharing and knowledge exchange. The landmark collaboration agreement with Network Rail Central Route, which Gus personally fostered and co-signed in 2023, is now regarded as a national exemplar of what cross-sector collaboration can achieve.
When the catastrophic Mor Brook landslip struck in January 2025, severing the northern section of the line, Gus’s leadership proved pivotal. Faced with a potential existential threat, he led a calm, strategic and highly effective response, negotiating with insurers, coordinating contractors and volunteers, and securing wide-ranging public and financial support. His leadership galvanised the sector, turning crisis into opportunity. The successful reopening in July, heralded by Flying Scotsman, was not just an engineering victory but a powerful demonstration of the SVR’s resilience, built on the trust and respect Gus commands across the industry.
Equally groundbreaking is his leadership of the SVR’s One Railway restructure; a bold and inclusive transformation of governance and operations to create a more sustainable future. Gus drove this initiative with transparency and conviction, engaging members, shareholders and volunteers through open consultations and clear communications, earning overwhelming support.
Beyond structural reform, Gus is a passionate advocate for people. As a long-time volunteer diesel driver, he leads by example; reinvigorating volunteer recruitment and placing young people at the heart of the heritage rail movement. His belief in developing new talent, creating opportunities, and inspiring the next generation is not a side project, it’s central to his vision for the future of rail.
Most recently, Gus played a leading role in organising The Greatest Gathering in Derby for Railway 200. His industry-wide connections and relentless drive helped bring together the largest-ever assembly of UK rail vehicles, uniting history, innovation, and community in a landmark event that celebrated the rail industry’s legacy and future.
Gus Dunster is far more than a leader; he is a visionary connector, a moderniser, and a tireless ambassador for the railway. His impact will resonate far beyond the SVR, shaping how the heritage and mainline sectors move forward together, with purpose and pride.
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Marc Webber
Company Name
Avanti West Coast
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Marc, through his social media output as a part time BBC celebrity. Always promotes the positives in the industry, both for Avanti, and any other TOC which is doing something worth shouting about. From new rolling stock, to celebrations of long service and charity work. Nothing is considered too minor for him to crow about to his substantial online following.
Combined with this is his effervescent personality, where he's affectionately known as 'Marc the video guy' to the staff on the west coast mainline. Whom he has developed a real bond. Creating a positive image of all of us through the internal coms.
Marc is both enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the railway, and this enthusiasm is difficult to ignore and not get wrapped up in when he's seeking help with one of the projects he does to promote the staff and company alike.
Marc makes us all realise how fortunate we are to work in this fabulous industry.
I think you'd be hard pushed to find a more worthwhile winner of this category.
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Maro Sakpere
Company Name
GTR
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I am proud to nominate Maro Sakpere for Rail Ambassador of the Year. Few people embody the spirit of this award as much as he does. His journey, passion, and tireless advocacy have not only inspired those around him but have also contributed to driving real change across the rail industry.
Maro’s career is the definition of growing from the grassroots. He began his journey as a station assistant and train dispatcher, working on the front line where safety, performance, and customer service intersect. He then progressed into engineering, building his technical expertise while never losing sight of the people at the heart of the railway. Today, as a Service Engineer, Maro combines this deep, hands-on experience with a vision for how the industry can grow more inclusive and supportive.
Maro is more than a dedicated rail professional. He is a role model and mentor. During his GTR Level 4 Passenger Transport Operations Manager Apprenticeship, he used his platform to motivate and support underrepresented groups within the industry. Having personally benefited from the Chartered Institution of Railway Operators (CIRO) program, he actively encouraged colleagues to pursue it too, showing them how it could open doors and build confidence in their own abilities.
What made this particularly powerful was who he is: a visible presence of someone from an underrepresented background, achieving success in spaces where diversity has too often been lacking. His authenticity and openness encouraged others across the industry, not just within his own company, to see that they too could progress, belong, and thrive. This visibility and advocacy were amplified after he won the Multicultural Apprenticeship Award in 2022, proving himself as both an achiever and a champion for change. His dedication to mentoring has also been recognised on a national stage. He was a finalist for the Young Rail Professionals Mentor of the Year 2025, as well as a finalist at the National Rail Awards 2025 for Outstanding Personal Contribution. These accolades reflect the many lives he has touched through his encouragement, leadership, and example.
Maro’s influence reaches beyond mentoring. He has led initiatives championing equality, equity, diversity, and inclusion within his depot, and as an Employee Voice Panel representative, he worked to ensure every colleague feels heard, valued, and empowered. His efforts are not token gestures but focused on creating lasting cultural change, building workplaces where everyone can bring their full selves to the job.
The Rail Ambassador of the Year award, in memory of Tom O’Connor, celebrates those who champion the industry, inspire others, and advocate for positive change. Maro is all of this and more. His journey shows what is possible, his mentorship opens doors for others, and his advocacy makes the industry stronger and more inclusive.
By recognising Maro, we honour someone who embodies the very best of rail. A leader who uplifts others, a mentor who gives back, and an ambassador who proudly champions the future of our industry.
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Martin Howard
Company Name
Chiltern Railways
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I would like to nominate Martin for recognition due to his unwavering dedication, selflessness, and passion for his role. Martin consistently goes above and beyond what is expected, often volunteering personal time to help with Customer communication, such as delivering and collecting posters and putting them up at weekends, checking CIS screens, passenger counts and reports (getting up at 5am to do this) and generally supporting staff across stations to help live one of the companies’ values ‘Making things better’ very often in his own time.
Martin supports our events team, helping with Customer information control when we host sporting events and concerts at Wembley stadium. When there are engineering works, he helps customers by getting on the trains and guiding them with their onward bus journeys.
Martin is also widely known as the “go-to” person on our team—the one you turn to when you’re stuck, need advice, or just want to make sure something is done right. Martin is our oracle, and ‘our secret weapon behind the scenes’—calm under pressure, incredibly knowledgeable, and always willing to support others no matter how busy he is.
More than just a hardworking colleague, Martin has been a mentor to me personally. His guidance, encouragement, and willingness to share knowledge have had a lasting impact on my growth and confidence in my role.
He leads with integrity, patience, and a deep sense of responsibility, always putting the Customer at the heart of what we do.
Martin is also no stranger to recognition and has received multiple awards for outstanding contributions, which is a true testament to the respect Martin has earned from colleagues across the organisation. Even with such accolades, Martin remains humble, approachable, and always willing to help.
Bringing so much wisdom and dedication into the team, we would be lost without Martin, and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.
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Mel Clarke
Company Name
East Midlands Railway
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I have nominated Mel for her great work in promoting the railway as a great place to work for all but in particularly women. Mel with her Instagram profile - thattraindrivermum has 11k followers who follow her and her experiences as a working mainline driver on the busy East Midlands mainline and connect network out of St Pancras and a mum and wife to Phil and her two great kids Max and Mia. Mel shows all the positive things on the railway such a the 200 year event currently and other open days.
She is a positive role model for any women who are interested in a career on the railway and is happy to speak to anyone in her own time to offer assistance in recruitment advice.
She networks with other staff who promote themselves on the railway and often meets up with them making great photo opportunities.
As well as the positives, Mel has also highlighted the lows. After being involved in a fatality incident, she has promoted mental health wellbeing and has been involved in podcast show detailing the highs and the lows of being on the railway.
On a personal level, Mel is a great person to have a chat with, her bubbly personality and kind nature make her a great friend and I'm really happy to nominate her for this award.
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Nathaniel Arthur
Company Name
GTR
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Nat, as affectionately called is a true Ambassador in the rail industry. Highly recommended and recognised by many with his influence and knowledge touching many lives in the industry.
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Sheree Whetren
Company Name
SWR
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Sheree Whetren embodies everything the Rail Ambassador Award stands for—dedication, compassion, and a tireless commitment to making the railway a kinder, safer, and more inclusive place.
Over her 7 years at South Western Railway, Sheree has journeyed from the gateline to customer ambassador, and now into her third year in the wellbeing team. Her impact spans far beyond her role: she serves on the charity panel, the incident care team, and co-chairs MIND, a voluntary network group supporting mental health. She also partners with Berrywood Primary School in Hedge End, bringing community spirit and railway outreach to life.
Sheree is the driving force behind wellbeing events across the network, curating experiences that blend practical support with emotional resonance. Her partnerships with external organisations have elevated health and wellbeing visibility across SWR, making these events not just informative—but memorable.
One of her most transformative contributions is the rollout of defibrillator training. Recognising that newly installed defibs at every station were only as powerful as the confidence of those nearby, Sheree created accessible, empowering training for colleagues. Her foresight and empathy have undoubtedly saved lives.
What sets Sheree apart is her warmth, creativity, and unwavering belief in people. She is known and loved across the organisation—not just for what she does, but for how she makes others feel. Whether comforting a colleague in crisis, planning a legacy event, or designing symbolic tokens of care, Sheree brings heart to everything she touches.
She gives her time freely, leads with kindness, and uplifts others with quiet strength. For her legacy of compassion, her tireless advocacy, and her ability to turn ideas into action, Sheree Whetren is a truly worthy Rail Ambassdor.
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Sophie Green
Company Name
East Midlands Railway
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Sophie has a long and varied railway career, starting in the ticket office in 2006 before transferring to an On Train role. She is currently starting her journey towards becoming a train driver.
In addition to delivering a great service and being a well-respected colleague, she's taken the initiative to showcase her railway career on social media, amounting to over 18,000 followers on Instagram and TikTok.
She candidly shares her career journey, balancing work and family life, and what she loves about her role as a Senior Conductor.
During the quiet moments of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sophie began sharing more of their work online. Over time, by steadily growing her online following, she has built a strong platform to showcase careers in the railway industry and connect with both customers and the wider railway community in an authentic and innovative way, with impressive reach and impact.
She regularly engages with people interested in railway careers, offering a personal, relatable perspective that puts a face and name to our company and shines a light on lesser-known aspects of the industry.
Proactively seeking ways to improve customer experience, she has submitted several valuable "Lightbulb Moments" ideas to the Customer Experience team at EMR. Sophie's creativity stands out in the way she helps us connect with customers through social media. Thanks to one of her suggestions, we developed a series of engaging online travel disruption videos in collaboration with EMR's official social media channels. This content reaches a wider and more diverse audience than our traditional communication methods, making a meaningful difference in how we engage with the public.
She has also taken part in recruitment videos, to further help promote railway careers to the next generation. By actively promoting careers in rail, especially as a woman and working mother, she is inspring future generations and more women and girls to consider the railway as a career path.
Her reach of 18,000 followers is greater than some of EMR's official social media channels! She's using her platform to promote the positive sides of her role, in a thoughtful and engaging way that benefits EMR and the wider industry.
Alongside this, she is fantastic at her role and it's clear she really loves her job and helping customers is important to her. She is a real ambassador and role model who deserves recognition for her efforts.
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15
RAIL ENGINEER OF THE YEAR AWARD
This award recognises an exceptional engineer whose expertise, innovation, and problem-solving skills have significantly contributed to the rail industry. Whether in design, maintenance, safety, or project delivery, nominees will have demonstrated technical excellence and a commitment to improving rail infrastructure and services. Judges will be looking for individuals who showcase leadership, creativity, and a passion for advancing railway engineering.
Example job titles in this category:
Lead Fitter, Pway Designer, Fleet Engineer, BSL Signalling Engineer, Signaller, Structure Examiner, Engineering Contracts Director , Senior Surveyor, Senior Project Engineer, Technical Engineer, Construction Management, Chief S&T Engineer, ATME...
You can see all the past winners here.
Alan Anderson
Company Name
Network Rail
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Alan Anderson has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership and technical excellence in his role as Infrastructure Maintenance Engineer for Overhead Line Equipment (OLE) across Scotland’s Railway. His strategic vision, operational delivery, and commitment to continuous improvement have directly contributed to the exceptional performance of Scotland’s OLE infrastructure — even in the face of significant challenges.
Under Alan’s leadership, the OLE asset in Scotland has been benchmarked nationally and is now recognised as one of the best-performing in the UK. This achievement is particularly impressive given that much of the infrastructure he manages includes some of the oldest equipment in the country, including legacy Mark 1 systems. Despite these constraints, Alan has driven a culture of innovation, resilience, and high performance across his teams.
Alan leads not only on the day-to-day maintenance of Scotland’s OLE but also on the planning and delivery of heavy refurbishment projects. These are delivered annually through a structured work bank, which Alan has helped shape and mature over time. His approach has delivered significant financial savings by reducing reliance on external contractors and instead building internal capability. This has not only improved cost efficiency but also strengthened the long-term sustainability of the organisation.
A passionate advocate for asset improvement, Alan is actively involved in national workstreams and the introduction of new technologies. His forward-thinking mindset ensures that Scotland’s OLE strategy remains aligned with industry best practice and future-ready. Whether it’s trialling new materials, adopting smarter inspection techniques, or contributing to national standards, Alan is always at the forefront of progress.
Alan’s leadership extends beyond technical delivery. He has recently recruited and mentored a number of newly graduated engineers, helping them transition into the industry and develop their careers. His guidance, encouragement, and technical mentorship have been instrumental in shaping the next generation of engineering talent within the business.
The performance of the OLE asset in Scotland is a direct reflection of Alan’s leadership, dedication, and deep-rooted passion for improvement. His ability to inspire teams, deliver results, and drive innovation makes him a standout leader within the infrastructure community. Alan’s work not only enhances the reliability and safety of the railway but also contributes to the long-term growth and capability of the organisation.
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Antony Bartlam
Company Name
Severn Valley Railway
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Antony Bartlam, a Civil and Structural Engineer and long-standing volunteer on the Severn Valley Railway, has been the driving force behind one of the most complex and high-stakes heritage rail engineering projects in recent years: the reinstatement of the Mor Brook embankment and bridge, following a catastrophic landslip in January 2025.
The landslip jeopardised not only the northern end of the line but the operational and financial viability of the entire railway. In the face of this, Antony’s immediate and sustained response brought clarity, control and calm leadership to a crisis. Acting largely in a voluntary capacity, he dedicated countless hours as SVR’s consulting engineer. His expertise was instrumental in rapidly assessing the failure, coordinating urgent ground investigations, navigating the insurance process, evaluating contractor bids, and identifying the safest, most cost-effective solution.
Antony’s deep understanding of both engineering and the realities of a volunteer-led heritage organisation enabled the project to move at exceptional speed. His rigour and foresight allowed critical decisions to be made quickly, ensuring a fast-track design and build process that minimised disruption and enabled the SVR to fully reopen in time for its peak season. This fast turnaround was vital in restoring lost revenue streams, crucial at a time when the organisation was already under intense financial pressure due to post-Covid visitor decline and sharply rising costs.
Despite the urgency, Antony ensured costs were tightly controlled. He carefully balanced technical requirements with budget realities, leveraging his professional judgement to avoid unnecessary spend while still delivering a permanent, high-quality solution. His ability to coordinate with insurers, statutory bodies, contractors, and volunteers kept the project on track and on budget—an extraordinary achievement under such strained circumstances.
The engineering challenges were formidable: rebuilding a failed wing wall and embankment under high-voltage cables, protecting ecological assets, and liaising with multiple regulatory authorities. Antony led this with tireless energy, designing a solution involving massive interlocking Legato blocks and geogrid matting—a sophisticated reinstatement described by contractors CML as one of the most complex they’ve ever undertaken.
But Antony’s leadership went far beyond the technical. His exceptional communication, through internal briefings, public YouTube updates, and press engagement, built trust and maintained transparency. His passion and clarity inspired confidence among staff, volunteers and supporters, helping the SVR weather months of uncertainty.
Perhaps the most poignant moment came when Antony, having led the entire project, drove the first test train across the rebuilt section. Just days later, the line triumphantly reopened with 60103 Flying Scotsman, marking not just a technical achievement, but a powerful symbol of recovery.
Antony Bartlam exemplifies every quality this award seeks to honour—technical excellence, innovation, leadership, and unwavering commitment. His work didn’t just rebuild a bridge; it safeguarded the SVR’s future and proved what heritage railways can achieve with engineering vision and determination.
Here’s one of the YouTube updates showcasing Antony’s communication skills and the complexity of the repair: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZY0WwpyX...
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Bartosz Gapsa
Company Name
AECOM
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Nomination Recommendation – Rail Engineer of the Year
I am honoured to nominate Bartosz Gapsa, Senior OLE Engineer at AECOM, for the Rail Engineer of the Year Award. Bartosz has played a pivotal role in the Old Oak Common Rail Systems Project. This once-in-a-generation infrastructure programme is creating one of the UK’s largest rail hubs, linking HS2, the Elizabeth Line, Great Western, and future high-speed services. OOC is not just another electrification project — it is a highly constrained site with multiple live interfaces, staged construction, and the need to integrate temporary and final OLE designs without disrupting critical rail operations. Bartosz led the design for the eastern station packages, developing innovative steelwork and wiring solutions that allowed safe transfer of existing wires onto new structures while maintaining compliance with evolving OLE standards.
The challenges at OOC have been immense — from accommodating complex track geometry, to ensuring electrical clearances within over bridges, and platform canopies, all while coordinating with civil, track, and systems teams. Bartosz introduced advanced 3D modelling and pantograph simulation methods to prove the safety of sectioning arrangements and clearances where tolerances were extremely tight. He also developed bespoke loading and geometry calculation templates that not only improved design efficiency but also gave clarity to the wider Rail Systems Alliance teams when resolving foundation, structural, and wire clash issues. His proactive identification of risks, such as potential collisions with section insulators, and his ability to redesign under pressure, prevented costly rework and safeguarded the programme.
In parallel, Bartosz has contributed to High-Speed OCS design in terminal station environments, where contact system arrangements must withstand the demands of high-speed pantograph interaction within restricted spaces. His ability to adapt high-speed principles to the UK context reflects both technical mastery and engineering creativity.
At OOC and beyond, Bartosz combines deep technical knowledge with collaborative leadership, mentoring junior engineers and championing lessons learned across projects. His work embodies the innovation, resilience, and commitment that define the very best of our rail engineers, making him an outstanding candidate for Rail Engineer of the Year.
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David Jones
Company Name
London Northwestern & West Midlands Railways
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Dave was visiting Snow Hill station to carry out a meet and greet when he noticed an engineer which seemed to not have the usual 172 Mercedes 1800 purr, he then met the suspected engine for a closer listen to which he found an abnormal knock. Dave isolated engine to save any further damage. Engine was inspected on depot to find that Dave has saved a catastrophic engine failure. His experience and proactive nature prevented a big failure.
In another instance, Dave noticed that some pigeonholes had been removed from the mess room and posed a health and safety risk to customers on the platform. Dave assisted the station team to drag them to a safe store. Over the following two days, in his own time, Dave brought in his tools from home and dismantled them so they could be transported to a disposal compound, saving the business a lot of money on a contractor to dispose of them. This proactive offer of help was very much appreciated and was excellent teamwork.
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Desmond Cardoso
Company Name
AECOM
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Des is an exceptional engineer within AECOM's Rail team in Swindon and is an extremely committed member of the team. Six months ago Des became a Chartered Civil Engineer with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), and his professional journey has been particularly inspiring- progressing from Technician Member, to Incorporated Member and now Chartered Member, and Des has achieved this through the experiential learning route. This remarkable achievement has required exceptional determination, discipline and perseverance and stands as a testament to his dedication to both his professional and personal growth.
Des is an integral part of Aecom's Swindon civils' team and he is a critical member of the Old Oak Common Rail Systems (OOC RS) Project team, where he has undertaken a civils' Contractor's Responsible Engineer (CRE) role on this project for the past two years. Since stepping into a leading role within the civils' team following the departure of a previous civils' CRE in February 2024, Des' contribution has been pivotal to the project's success. Des' technical expertise, leadership and commitment have ensured that the civils' design delivery has remained of the highest standard on this complex multi-disciplinary project.
Des consistently strives to raise the bar in everything he does. He actively shares his excellent technical knowledge with the wider team, proactively develops innovative solutions to design challenges and maintains vital inter-disciplinary relationships. Within the South Rail Systems Alliance (SRSA), of which OOC RS is a part, Des is highly respected, not only by his colleagues across the various disciplines within AECOM, but also by Colas (as Contractor) and Network Rail (as Client). His collaborative approach, professionalism and ability to bring teams together make him a trusted and valued engineer.
As a team leader, Des is diligent, organised and inclusive. As well as managing his local team, Des has successfully managed an off-shore design team- overcoming time zone and communication challenges to successfully integrate this team as a critical part of the project delivery structure. Des' leadership has directly enhanced the performance and confidence of the off-shore team, improving efficiency and strengthening project resilience.
One of Des' most notable contributions has been the introduction of a design checklist initiative on the OOC RS Project. This tool has significantly improved consistency across work packages, enhanced overall quality, reduced errors and ensured timely deliverables. Its success has had such an impact that the Railway Professional Head of Discipline for Civil Engineering is looking to roll it out across the wider AECOM business, demonstrating the lasting value of Des' innovation.
In every respect, Des exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding rail engineer- technically excellent, committed to quality, collaborative in approach and inspiring as a leader. Always ready to help solve problems and encourage his colleagues, Des would be a thoroughly deserving winner of the Rail Engineer of the Year Award.
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Douglas Shields
Company Name
AtkinsRéalis
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We are proud to nominate Douglas Shields, known affectionately as Dougie, for the Rail Engineer of the Year Award, recognising his exceptional contribution to railway engineering over a career spanning more than 25 years. Dougie represents the very best of our industry – a technically brilliant engineer, an innovative problem-solver, and a compassionate leader who inspires those around him.
Dougie’s career is grounded in technical excellence and delivery across some of the UK’s most significant rail programmes. His past contributions include leading signalling design and engineering on the Edinburgh to Glasgow Improvement Programme (EGIP), the North London Line Resignalling works (critical infrastructure for the London Olympics), and the Norwich-Yarmouth-Lowestoft Resignalling, the first major deployment of Advanced Signalling Method (ASM) a novel approach to signalling delivery introduced into the UK rail market. He played a crucial role in delivering Network Rail’s Anglia route portfolio delivery during CP5 & CP6, consistently demonstrating innovation and collaborative leadership.
Today, Dougie continues to shape the future of railway engineering through his leadership on some of the most complex and high-impact projects in CP7. He is guiding multidisciplinary teams on the Sizewell C Rail Systems works and leading delivery within Network Rail’s Eastern Renewals Partnership (ERP). In these roles, Dougie’s steady leadership and expert knowledge empower teams to overcome obstacles and deliver outstanding results in safety, reliability, and innovation.
Dougie is also a go-to engineering mind within AtkinsRéalis, his strategic thinking and technical depth make him an invaluable contributor to bidding and client support, where his ability to translate complex engineering requirements into compelling, deliverable solutions consistently strengthens our position. His input is often the difference-maker in securing work, thanks to his clarity, pragmatism, and deep understanding of client needs.
A client recently remarked: “Dougie exemplifies what we look for in a highly skilled engineer. His ongoing contributions have been instrumental to the successful development and delivery of multiple projects, consistently driving innovation and value for our organisation. We are particularly impressed by his ability to maximise client satisfaction while navigating complex challenges and changing requirements.”
Dougie is more than a technical expert; he is a mentor and role model who champions early careers talent. From recruitment through to career progression, he empowers junior engineers to develop both confidence and capability, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone is encouraged to think for themselves and flourish.
One newly turned Project Engineer (formerly Graduate) shared: “I am lucky to have Dougie as my manager since day one in this industry. A genuinely approachable person who always has time for you and truly sees the potential in you. He truly cares about making sure you pursue the career path you want, and he'll support you all the way to help you get there.”
Dougie’s legacy is not only in the infrastructure he helps deliver, but in the people he empowers and the culture he creates. He is a driving force for excellence in railway engineering, and we believe he is a truly deserving recipient of this award.
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Harry Williams
Company Name
Network Rail
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Harry Williams has demonstrated exceptional engineering leadership in the delivery of track renewals across the Central Route. His tenacity, technical expertise, and “get up and go” attitude have been pivotal in driving forward complex programmes under challenging conditions, ensuring that the railway is safer, more resilient, and better performing for years to come.
Harry’s approach to renewals is truly inspiring – he brings laser focus to improving the asset, always thinking beyond immediate delivery to how maintainers will manage the railway in the long term. His ability to develop innovative, practical solutions to everyday engineering challenges, while balancing strategic trade-offs, has delivered a lasting legacy for both the infrastructure and the teams who work on it.
He has been at the forefront of shaping renewal strategies, leading optioneering for high-output delivery, and managing difficult trade-offs to protect volumes in the face of funding constraints. Thanks to his leadership, critical renewals have been successfully delivered at locations such as Malvern, Worcester Shrub Hill, and Abbotswood, while safer and more efficient designs have been implemented at Washwood Heath.
Harry leads from the front. His proactive, solution-focused approach and commitment to continuous improvement are transforming asset condition across Central Route. He is not only delivering outstanding results but also inspiring those around him with his drive, resilience, and technical vision. For his exceptional contribution to engineering, asset improvement, and the future of the railway, Harry is a worthy candidate for the Rail Engineer of the Year Award 2025.
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Liam Ody
Company Name
Network Rail
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I have nominated Liam for the following reasons:
Technical Excellence
Liam has demonstrated outstanding technical acumen and initiative in challenging the limitations of traditional On-Track Machine (OTM) operations. In 2023, he proactively engaged with the Route Works Planning Manager to explore more effective methods of delivering OTM work, recognising that the existing Rule Book constraints were hindering productivity and track quality.
Rather than accepting the status quo, Liam sought collaborative solutions across Network Rail functions to improve outcomes. His commitment to technical excellence has led to the successful implementation of Protection Zone (PZ) working, which is now gaining interest across other Delivery Units and Routes nationwide. His leadership in this area has set a new standard for OTM delivery.
Innovation and Creativity
Liam has been a key driver in the evolution of PZ (Protection Zone) working, embracing innovation with an open and forward-thinking mindset. He has consistently contributed to the development of this method, engaging constructively with colleagues and stakeholders to assess and refine new approaches.
His willingness to explore alternative delivery models and his ability to see beyond traditional constraints have been instrumental in establishing PZs as a preferred method of OTM operation. Liam’s creativity lies not only in technical solutions but also in his ability to foster a culture of continuous improvement.
Impact on Maintenance
The impact of Liam’s work on maintenance outcomes has been both measurable and significant:
• Productivity has increased by approximately 75%, with nightly outputs rising from 35–45 chains in a 6-hour T3 possession to 80 chains (1 mile) in a PZ.
• Track quality has improved markedly, with reductions in Level 1 and Level 2 faults and bump reports.
• Financial efficiencies have been achieved through better resource utilisation and reduced rework.
• Operational performance has improved, with enhanced train reliability and increased productivity across other worksites due to the separation of OTM operations from T3 possessions.
These results reflect Liam’s ability to translate innovative thinking into tangible improvements for the railway network.
Leadership and Mentorship
Liam has shown exemplary leadership in championing PZ working within Central Delivery Unit. He has worked tirelessly with planning teams, SCO, and the RWPM to embed robust processes that support successful delivery. His proactive planning ensures that all necessary information is submitted ahead of lockdown dates, reducing late changes and improving coordination.
As a mentor, Liam has led by example—personally undertaking Engineering Supervisor roles on PZ shifts, coaching his TQS team, and liaising with OTM crews to ensure safe and efficient delivery. His dedication to supporting others and fostering confidence in new methods has been a cornerstone of the successful rollout of PZ working.
Liam’s professionalism, resilience, and unwavering commitment to improvement make him a standout candidate for Railway Engineer of the Year. His ability to lead change, inspire others, and deliver real benefits to the industry exemplifies the highest standards of engineering excellence. Without doubt he would be a worthy winner
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Luke Marsland
Company Name
Network Rail
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Luke played a vital role in the successful delivery of the Colton Jn to Church Fenton electrification and line speed increase as part of the Transpennine Route Upgrade.
Acting as Designated Project Engineer, Luke led the TRU East engineering team's delivery of the E1 project which included 17km of track renewals, a 65-metre wide under-track crossing, 270 new steel masts and 37 miles of overhead line. A more challenging element was the industry first use of tangential wiring on mark 3B Overhead Line for an equal split 125mph double junction at Colton - a challenge not to be taken lightly. Luke's ability to provide technical and behavioural leadership shone through and was critical to its success.
Luke's leadership extended beyond the usual infrastructure engineering. When faced with difficulties in securing the regular rolling stock for test trains, Luke stepped up and lead in procuring, specifying and implementing test train running using alternative rolling stock - this was well beyond the requirements of his role and reflects his determination and willingness step out of his comfort zone to get the job done.
An example which stands out was when the need to undertake compatibility assessments for underbridges evolved with little time remaining before the entry into service date. Luke took the lead in liaising with experts, key stakeholders and TRU's in house engineering teams to define the scope of the necessary assessments and map out a route to success. As it was apparent that the full assessments wouldn't be in place prior to go-live, he successfully delivered a plan for controlling risk while minimising disruption to the train operators and travelling public, requiring the buy in of multiple cross-industry stakeholders. This was successfully managed and closed out in a matter of weeks with minimal disruption to passenger services.
He received praise from both within and outside Network Rail, with one senior person noting he "regularly provided confidence within multi-organisational meetings with TOCs, TPE, the Technical authority and various teams within TRU… the confidence that Luke provided enabled the group to progress quickly against a tight timeline."
Luke's commitment to the project culminated in the successful authorisation and entry into service of the new and upgraded infrastructure, enabling the project to delivery on budget and ahead of schedule.
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Luke Swain
Company Name
Network Rail
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Luke manages the Earthwork and Geotechnical assets on the West Coast South Route at Network Rail. He consistently shows engineering excellence in his management and decision-making of this particularly high performing part of the UK rail network. His diligence, safety leadership and technical engineering management ensures the railway remains safe and available no matter what the UK weather throws at it - from huge convective rainfalls to exceptionally dry summers. Luke consistently engages with other engineering teams across the route to manage risks associated with mining, landslips, 3rd party land owners and vegetation. His collaboration with track maintainers, OLE teams and structures colleagues is leading the way towards breaking down many of the silos which exist in the industry, improving our management and response to emerging risks as well as exploiting all opportunities to deliver infrastructure improvements faster, easier and cheaper.
Luke has recently spearheaded the development and introduction of digital twin modelling for several major earthwork features on the West Coast South Route - enabling more accurate monitoring, management and risk reduction of this high-risk, severe consequence assets. His efforts in this endeavour have resulted in a reduction of on-site examination man-hours - improving safety for frontline workers - and has shown his industry-leading approach to adopting and exploiting new technology to better manage the railway in the modern world.
During recent emergency works at Polesworth on the West Coast Mainline, when the failure of an OLE gantry foundation risked collapse of the structure and a closure of the line, Luke was instrumental in making the railway safe and maintaining rail operations - attending site during storms and over the festive period to immediately direct contractors in making the necessary repairs. This is typical of his approach to engineering and managing - doing both from the front, leaning into the problem and using expert knowledge and pragmatism to deliver for our passengers.
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Mark Walsh
Company Name
Hitachi Rail
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In the digital backbone of the UK’s rail ecosystem, where real-time information powers millions of journeys daily, Mark Walsh stands as a beacon of engineering excellence. As Hitachi Rail’s lead engineer on the Rail Delivery Group's (RDG) transformative National Rail Enquiries Management (NREM) project, Mark played a vital role in the modernisation of a critical piece of UK rail’s digital infrastructure.
The National Rail Enquiries (NRE) website and app are indispensable tools for UK travelers, serving as the primary platform for journey planning. Handling millions of queries daily, they provide live train times, ticket bookings, and disruption alerts, enabling seamless travel for commuters and tourists alike.
Under Mark's leadership, the NREM project modernised this vital digital ecosystem, replacing outdated legacy monolithic systems with scalable cloud-native solutions that have reduced costs and improved services for the traveling public, handling over 2.5 million daily requests.
Managing the migration from a decades old legacy system to a new technology stack, demanded steep learning curves, yet Mark's design passed AWS architects' scrutiny without changes—a rare endorsement.
The overhaul slashed operating costs, freeing resources for frontline improvements and under Mark’s stewardship, both Phase 1 and 2 of the project were delivered on time and within budget. Phase 2's bespoke UI console also boosted usability, empowering operators with intuitive real-time oversight.
Reliability improved: the new backend boasts an unprecedented low bug rate, eclipsing the old system and any from Mark's 25-year career. The code was so robust that during extreme load testing by infrastructure provider Nasstar, it required zero modifications to withstand simulated extreme peak traffic while consistently achieving sub-second responses. a testament to his meticulous attention to detail.
Innovation extended to alerting systems, where Mark retired a complex legacy setup, engineering a brand new design from the ground up. The new design was vetted and approved by RDG's Enterprise-Technical-Design-Authority and Architecture-Review-Board, subsequently becoming a blueprint for sector adoption with Mark's architecture being emulated by firms like Valtech, affirming Mark’s top class design and execution skills.
Mark and his team are RDG's go-to subject matter experts, consulted by customers and partners on challenges, amplifying his strength in collaborating with his customers.
"Mark has worked on several major programmes for us and has played a significant part in the success of these activities. He is recognised as an expert and goes above and beyond when delivering for his customers. Thank you Mark." — Nicole Jennings, Chief Delivery Officer, RDG
“Mark provides highly expert advice and engineering, with which RDG and customers of rail are significantly better for. Mark exceeds our expectations in his delivery. And as, if not more importantly, his professionalism, conduct and exceptionally high service levels, make him a go to person and pleasure to work with.” — Matthew.Burrough, Head of Digital-NRE, RDG
Mark Walsh has demonstrated exceptional vision, technical expertise, and leadership in transforming the rail industry’s digital infrastructure. His achievements have set new benchmarks for reliability, efficiency, and innovation and as such we are proud to nominate him for engineer of the year
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Mohammed Al-Sharif
Company Name
Skanska
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I would like to nominate Mohammed Al-Sharif for Rail Engineer of the Year at the RailStaff Awards 2025. Mohammed has been leading complex railway station and major bridge projects as an Engineering Lead (CEM) for several years across the UK, whilst achieving major personal recognition as a Fellow of the ICE at a very young age (33). Alongside his engineering leadership on projects, he has created and run a pro-bono organisation (The Chartership Forum), which he has utilised to promote professional development internationally and mentored people from across the UK and beyond to achieve professional registration as Chartered Engineers. He has provided guidance and advice on best practice across the UK Rail sector and helped countless people, teams, projects and organisations to improve their project delivery for the benefit of the public end users of tax payer funded infrastructure projects and programmes." said Shafiq Haq.
"I will like to nominate Mohammed Al Sharif for the Rail Engineer of the Year Award.
I have known Mohammed for over six years, first working with him on the HS2 Enabling Works package for Area Central, and later on projects including the Transpennine Route Upgrade West and Camp Hill Stations. During this time, Mohammed has consistently impressed me with his exceptional technical acumen, his talent for solving complex problems, and his unwavering dedication to safety and Network Rail standards, which ensures that all projects are delivered without disrupting railway operations.
In addition to his technical skills, Mohammed has significantly influenced others as a mentor and leader. He has supported engineers who are new to the rail industry, helping them gain the skills and self-assurance needed to advance their careers. Impressively, several of these individuals have achieved ICE membership. I can personally attest to his impact, as his guidance and encouragement were invaluable in my own journey to achieving Chartered status.
Mohammed’s commitment to professional development extends to the Chartership Forum he founded, which has already facilitated the chartership of more than five members in the past year. His achievements have been formally acknowledged through his election as a Fellow of the ICE.
In conclusion, Mohammed is an outstanding engineer and mentor, making him an ideal candidate for this award." said Ogbemudia Nosakhare.
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Nigel Taylor
Company Name
Translink
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Nigel has been the driving force of change within the NIR telecoms department, dealing with multiple issues in a professional manner. He has taken the telecoms department from reactive with limited competency & commitment, growing levels of degradation, obsolescence of telecoms assets, minimum planning for future development, cyber security governance and regulation, with growing performance challenges, against a backdrop of funding constraints and the increasing critical role telecom systems play in delivering a reliable service; to a professional level with growing commitment . He spends the majority of his time, both at work and at home looking for opportunities for improvement within the telecom department( it would be normal to receive a text or WhatsApp from Nigel at 23:30 starting with...i was just thinking!) and he has taken his role as the manager of telecoms maintenance to a level where his staff feel both supported, and challenged in equal measures. His team are equally enthusiastic about delivering a high performing digital railway and have taken telecoms performance and competency to a high level. Some of his achievements include
Identifying a recognised bespoke training programme for telecom technicians
building a suitable telecoms training facility with minimum costs, and providing telecom technicians an opportunity to learn through simulation in a safe learning environment
applying safety initiatives which allow staff to gain knowledge and competency without the risks normally associated with this task
identifying innovative solutions to immediate performance issues and presenting these in a professional manner providing senior management with assurances
taking telecom apprentices on a journey where they both learn and enjoy the experience and feel part of a team
identifying the talents of his team and giving them opportunities to present these to the benefit of all
leading from the front and displaying leadership qualities despite the pressures of raising a young family
he has responded to the new challenges of asset management taking the SICA tool for signalling and developing a bespoke tool(TICA) to identify future challenges within telecoms
working with other partners and providers ensuring innovative solutions are identified
His modest approach is both assuring and refreshing, doing the exceptional and treating it as the norm, responding day and night to telecom issues and taking the performance of the telecom department as personal, seeking to give performance recognition even if it is only a fish supper for good and challenging poor . He has done so much in developing a department for today and tomorrow. remembering his team was small with limited competent technicians, this is against the transition from legacy (jurassic) to modern telecom systems, requiring a suitable level of competency for both. His team has more than doubled in size and includes 4 apprentices, who have recently started the journey with NIR telecoms. He has recognised weaknesses within telecoms records and design compliance and has worked with the design office to address both. So in summary, I feel Nigel shows the power of good leadership, supporting his teams development, whilst continually challenging and improving performance
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Phil Doughty
Company Name
Network Rail
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I am proud to nominate Phil Doughty for the Rail Engineer of the Year award. A Chartered Engineer, member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMECHE), and a Fellow of the Permanent Way Institution (PWI), Phil exemplifies technical excellence, and inclusive people-first leadership. He is deeply committed to improving the safety, cost, and performance of the railway.
A recognised authority in railway electrification, Phil plays a pivotal role in shaping national and European standards. As convener of the EN 50119 working group, he has influenced critical frameworks for overhead contact line safety, directly impacting operational reliability and reducing risks for passengers and staff across the UK and Europe.
Phil’s leadership of the Reliable and Sustainable Power research and development portfolio has delivered over £300 million in benefits for the industry, with innovations such as advanced contact wire inspection, Overhead Line Equipment (OLE) dynamic modelling, and pattern recognition, integration of renewable energy sources, and cost-efficient electrification driving significant improvements in asset reliability and operational efficiency. These advancements have enhanced safety, reduced maintenance costs, and supported the rail industry's transition to a more sustainable and interoperable electrified network.
Under Phil’s sponsorship of the Electrical Safety Delivery Programme (ESD) he has cultivated a culture of continuous improvement and secured long-term investment in electrical safety. ESD is the biggest change in electrical safety in a generation, introducing new technologies, competence, processes, and culture. Just in the last couple of years the ‘Make a Challenge, Save a Life’ campaign initiated proactive safety interventions across the sector, harnessing the power of industry collaboration to ensure everyone goes home safe every day.
Furthermore, the Single Approach to Isolations (SAI25) has revolutionised electrical risk assessment. These changes have resulted in a 18% reduction in isolation irregularities, demonstrably improving safety for frontline workers, and a 4 % reduction in work requiring an isolation where they have been deployed. Similar improvements are expected when deployment is completed in 2026.
Phil’s drive for innovation is matched by his passion for developing future talent. He’s leading the industry wide E&P strategic workforce plan, including the competence development programme addressing critical gaps in skills, defining routes to competence, and enhancing the quality of learning interventions. He actively supports the E&P graduate scheme, blending traditional expertise with emerging technologies, to inspire the next generation of engineers. Phil’s also a dedicated supporter of key interest groups as a regular speaker at the PWI and Rail Industry Association seminars.
Through leading E&P standards, Phil continues to challenge the norms and embrace the use of new technology to improve safety, performance, and sustainability. Some key changes include replacing low-level OLE patrolling with AI-powered video inspections, redefining risk-based maintenance regimes, and balancing electrical and system risks to keep the railway running.
Phil is not only a technical expert but a strategic leader whose work continues to shape the future of railway engineering across the UK and beyond. His influence spans policy, standards, and frontline operations, making him a truly exceptional candidate for Rail Engineer of the Year.
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Robbie Mecrow
Company Name
Morson Praxis
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Robbie is the Lead Control Systems Engineer on the national TPCMS SCADA upgrade project, a groundbreaking step change in the control of railway traction power. TPCMS manages both AC and DC electrification networks, including system-derived supplies. The rollout of TPCMS is already complete across significant parts of the network, and TPCMS is planned to connect to more than 1,200 outstations across the country once complete. Robbie has been at the heart of the project’s success.
From the outset, Robbie has brought vision and technical excellence. He architected several of the project’s most innovative features, most notably the intelligent electrical network model. This dynamically tracks the flow of electricity across Network Rail’s entire electrification system. By combining live circuit breaker data with predictive modelling, TPCMS can determine the energisation state of the railway within milliseconds. This enables the system to automatically detect unexpected or unsafe conditions and warn operators immediately, a leap forward in safety, speed, and reliability compared with legacy systems.
Robbie’s impact extends well beyond his technical contributions. He leads a team of around fifteen engineers, providing day-to-day mentorship, fostering collaboration, and inspiring confidence in junior engineers. At the same time, he interfaces seamlessly with the wider delivery team of over one hundred people, bridging technical detail with the goals and expectations of the stakeholders. His ability to communicate complex ideas with clarity and enthusiasm has been instrumental in driving the project forward.
What separates Robbie is his blend of deep technical expertise, leadership, and unwavering positivity. His commitment to excellence has ensured the TPCMS system not only meets requirements but exceeds them, delivering improvements that will have a lasting impact across the rail industry.
Robbie, pictured centrally in the enclosed picture, won the admiration of the Brighton Electrical Control Room operating staff during the commissioning of the TPCMS system in Brighton, so much so that they gifted Robbie a mimic control panel (pictured) from the legacy Brighton rail control system. This is an amazing piece of rail history that now takes pride of place in Robbie's home.
For his innovative technical contributions, leadership, and the enduring legacy of his work on the UK’s railway infrastructure, Robbie is deserving of the Engineer of the Year award.
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15
RAIL MANAGER OF THE YEAR AWARD
This award recognises an outstanding manager who demonstrates exceptional leadership, professionalism, and dedication to their team. The ideal nominee goes beyond expectations to support their colleagues, improve performance, and drive excellence in the rail industry.
Example job titles for this category:
Duty Engineering Manager, Section Supervisor, Programme Manager, Customer Service Manager, Area Manager, Station Manager, Train Driver Manager, Retail Audit Manager, Senior Engineering Manager, Customer Delivery Manager...
You can see all the past winners here.
Alex Cooke
Company Name
Grand Central
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Alex Cooke is one of the most respected figures at Grand Central. Known and admired across the entire business, he is someone colleagues consistently describe in the most positive terms. Nothing is ever too much trouble for Alex, who always goes out of his way for people – and he has a tangible love for the railway and for Grand Central.
Whether it’s stepping in personally to drive services or moving fleet stock and coaching drivers through difficult operational decisions, Alex helps prevent disruption and keeps the railway moving at all times. He has consistently put the business first whenever asked to take on new responsibilities, from joining the management team to becoming route driver manager for both West Riding and Sunderland.
Alex always shows empathy and understanding to his colleagues and those outside the business. During this summer’s heatwave, when drivers were facing failing air conditioning and technical difficulties, Alex consistently made himself available in person to support and listen.
Alex’s contribution goes beyond operational skill. He develops his driver management team, provides visible leadership and is trusted as a deputy head of drivers. He is one of the best operational managers on the railway.
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Anne Taylor
Company Name
Network Rail
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Anne exemplifies excellence in her role as On Track Machine Manager for Scotland’s Railway. Her unwavering commitment and technical expertise ensure the consistent performance of a complex and diverse maintenance fleet, often under demanding time constraints.
Her leadership and passion have a direct and positive impact on operational success, particularly in supporting my own Multi-Purpose Stoneblower fleet. Anne’s proactive approach, often starting early or finishing late, demonstrates her dedication to maintaining a 24/7 operation and delivering results beyond expectations.
Her contribution is invaluable, and this nomination recognises the outstanding professionalism, reliability, and drive she brings to the Scotland's Railway. Anne is truly deserving of this award.
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Brinsley Gordon
Company Name
Govia Thameslink Railway
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I am nominating Brinsley Gordon for Rail Manager of the year as he constantly goes above and beyond and has proven to be the true definition of a Leader and Manager.
Having recently rejoined the wider team of Thameslink South, Brinsley has taken the time to get to know his team at Farringdon to understand their frustrations, challenges, strengths, and weaknesses.
Since the opening of the Elizabeth Line, Farringdon has become a constant hub of activity facing many challenges outside of the direct control of the station team. Passenger numbers have increased significantly, and the layout of the station has required a robust operating model to ensure the safe management of the Platform Train Interface at our busiest times.
He has made himself available for his team when they need him and will always be seen leading from the front during challenging times. He is often seen undertaking passenger assists, making announcements and monitoring the platform train interface to ensure our people are kept safe.
He has built strong relationships with colleagues at TfL and continues to collaborate with them working towards us being stronger together.
Being open and receptive to constructive criticism, he will always look at ways to improve a situation ensuring the business needs and those of his team are taken into consideration.
He is not afraid to have difficult conversations and will challenge those not performing as required to reflect on their actions to recognise what they could do better.
Not wanting to let his team down he has been there during hectic evening peaks, industrial action, events and general disruption. His high level of flexibility and willingness to go the extra mile has earned him huge respect from his direct reports and trust.
I would love for him to be recognised for the fantastic work he does day in and out making it all look effortless.
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Ian Mundy
Company Name
GWR
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Ian leads a team of 4 Project Managers as The Head of Third-Party Delivery at GWR. He leads this team with dedication, integrity and honesty, supporting us all to deliver in our roles everyday. Ian has been integral in forming this team to interface and integrate with Network Rail, ensuring the infrastructure they're building meets every need of our business and passengers.
Ian has successfully managed his own rail projects over the years - The Dartmoor Line project, Portway Park & Ride Station and Marsh Barton Station, as well as many other projects. Ian uses this knowledge and experience to support us in the delivery of our projects, overseeing a portfolio. Ian drives performance through his own commitment to governance, research, efficiency and accountability. Through portfolio management Ian is able to bring about real change for passengers and colleagues, helping make people's everyday lives easier through accessible infrastructure that's designed to last longer than a lifetime. For colleagues, Ian has brought about process and policy to make their business-as-usual roles easier when our project deliverables are handed back to them, this commitment to improving all of our roles and jobs makes Ian a prime candidate for Rail Manager of the Year.
My professional relationship strongly contributes to this nomination too. Ian mentored me when I started as an Aspire Apprentice Project Manager in his team, giving me the time, commitment and trust I needed to develop and learn this crucial role in our industry. Ian has supported me with every element of the transition from on-board Guard to Apprentice Project Manager. I have recently secured a permanent Project Manager role in Ian's team and again, his support has been unwavering in helping me do my job to the very best of my ability. Without Ian's contribution to my professional development I wouldn't be where I am today.
Ian's rapport with the rest of the team matches my experience. He can always make time to support us, backing us when we need to escalate issues or problems through the hierarchy and making problems feel easy to overcome. The team are confident, knowledgeable and approachable because Ian leads us and sets the bar high for our standards. We pride ourselves on a reputation of professionalism, efficiency, consistency and being fantastic communicators because Ian is able to demonstrate those values and lead by example.
In summary, Ian's own track record of project achievements, as well as a career in this industry have given him a huge amount of knowledge and wisdom in the world of project and portfolio management, Ian is able to take this and match it with soft skills and people skills to manage our team to the very highest standard, giving us all opportunities & successes to be proud of ourselves, Ian is able to step back and celebrate the team, putting others in the spotlight. I am proud to work for Ian and hear only positive comments from colleagues across the network when his name is mentioned.
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Jodie Slater
Company Name
LNER
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I am honored to nominate Jodie Slater for the Manager of the Year Award in recognition of her exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and transformative impact on the railway industry.
Jodie is the epitome of consistency and excellence, always striving for the very best in her employees. She fosters an environment where progression, innovation, and change are not just encouraged but celebrated, ensuring that the railway remains at the forefront of new ideas and industry advancements.
As a champion for women in rail, Jodie is a true advocate for diversity and inclusion, continuously working to empower and elevate women in the industry. She leads by example, ensuring that every individual she manages feels valued, supported, and motivated to reach their full potential.
Jodie masterfully balances both safety and customer experience, ensuring that neither is compromised but instead held in the highest regard. Her leadership ensures that teams remain customer-focused while maintaining the highest safety standards, reinforcing the core values that drive railway excellence.
One of Jodie’s standout qualities is her ability to positively challenge the status quo. She actively encourages her team to disrupt, question, and push boundaries, fostering a culture where innovation thrives and the railway continues to evolve for the better.
Jodie’s impact is not just seen—it is felt across the entire industry. Her leadership, vision, and dedication make her a truly deserving recipient of this award.
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Jyoti Chander
Company Name
Heathrow Express
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Nomination Title: Championing Performance Excellence and Stakeholder Collaboration at Heathrow Express
Nomination Statement: Jyoti Chander has been instrumental in driving performance improvements at Heathrow Express through her exceptional leadership, analytical expertise, and collaborative approach. As Planning and Performance Manager, Jyoti has consistently gone above and beyond to ensure that operational decisions are informed by robust data and aligned with strategic goals.
Over the past year, Jyoti has led a series of performance analysis initiatives that have directly contributed to measurable improvements in service reliability and punctuality. Her ability to translate complex data into actionable insights has empowered frontline teams and senior leaders alike to make informed decisions that benefit both passengers and operations.
What truly sets Jyoti apart is her proactive engagement with stakeholders across the rail ecosystem, including Great Western Railway, Network Rail, train operators, and internal departments. She has fostered a culture of transparency and shared accountability, ensuring that performance challenges are addressed collaboratively and solutions are sustainable.
Jyoti’s work has not only improved operational outcomes but also strengthened Heathrow Express’s reputation for excellence. Her dedication, professionalism, and strategic mindset make her a standout leader in the rail industry.
For these reasons, I am proud to nominate Jyoti Chander for the Rail Manager of the Year Award. Her contributions exemplify the values of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement that the RailStaff Awards seek to celebrate.
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Karl Hatala
Company Name
AECOM
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Karl Hatala is an exceptional leader whose leadership of the AECOM Rail Team in Wales and the Western Region has set a benchmark for excellence across the industry. As Regional Director, he leads a team of 140 and oversees an annual portfolio of work exceeding £30 million. His leadership blends strategic foresight with a people-first approach, ensuring strong business performance alongside staff development, wellbeing, and retention. Under his guidance, the region has a reputation for delivering in line with if not exceeding client project expectations, consistent positive staff engagement, and industry-leading safety performance.
What truly sets Karl apart is his commitment to people and culture. He has championed mental health and wellbeing initiatives, supported staff throughout the COVID-19 pandemic with weekly calls, and embedded a strong safety culture through regular safety briefs. He has also created opportunities for early-career professionals by championing a shadow board within the business, giving future leaders a platform to influence decisions. His role in developing AECOM’s Global Technical Hub further demonstrates his impact on both regional and international platforms, extending opportunities for collaboration and knowledge-sharing worldwide.
Karl’s influence extends far beyond day-to-day operations. As Project Director for the Southern Rail Systems Alliance (SRSA), he has played a central role in delivering Network Rail’s £5 billion programme of track and rail system renewals across the UK. He has successfully directed transformational projects including Westbury at Christmas 2024, Old Oak Common Rail Systems, Wixams Station, and the Mid Cornwall Metro. More recently, Karl secured and now leads the HS2 Overhead Contact System project, a £300 million investment that will define the future of UK high-speed rail. His unique ability to combine technical oversight with commercial acumen ensures efficient delivery, robust risk management, and the highest levels of client satisfaction.
Through his vision, energy, and dedication, Karl exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding rail manager. He balances operational excellence with client trust while fostering the growth of people who will shape the future of the rail industry. His leadership continues to inspire both his immediate team and the wider rail community, making him a truly deserving nominee for Rail Manager of the Year.
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Nathan Sobers
Company Name
Chiltern Railways
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Nathan has been an valuable part of Chiltern Railways as Regional Manager for the past four years. What truly sets Nathan apart is not just his impressive track record of improvements, but the genuine care and dedication he brings to every challenge he faces.
Throughout his time with us, Nathan has transformed multiple areas within the company to make the railway a safer and more welcoming place for both staff and passengers. He championed the introduction of body-worn cameras—a move that not only improved safety but also gave our frontline teams greater confidence and reassurance in their daily work.
Nathan’s eye for detail and commitment to continuous improvement led him to update a number of procedures including the overcrowding and evacuation procedures. Rather than accepting the status quo, he dug deep to identify weaknesses and worked tirelessly to create safer, clearer protocols that everyone can rely on. This hands-on approach shows how much he truly cares about people’s wellbeing.
One of Nathan’s standout achievements has been the development of crowd management plans for high-traffic event days at London Marylebone. His thoughtful planning and coordination have been crucial in helping the team manage large crowds efficiently, keeping passengers and staff safe and calm during some of the busiest times.
Beyond his operational successes, Nathan is a true inspiration to his team. He constantly pushes everyone to be their best, encouraging growth and development at every level. Personally, Nathan has played a pivotal role in my own career journey, supporting me through development plans that helped me progress from working at the gate line to becoming the Customer Experience Manager at London Marylebone. His belief in his team and commitment to nurturing talent is a testament to his exceptional leadership.
Nathan’s leadership style is both inspiring and approachable. He listens, supports, and leads by example, showing passion and dedication in all that he does. For these reasons and many more, Nathan is a truly deserving candidate for Rail Manager of the Year." said Andrew Dale.
"I would like to nominate my line manager (Regional Station Manager) Nathan Sobers for his exceptional leadership, consistent support, and genuine dedication to both his team and the wider railway operation. His kindness, patience, and ability to bring out the best in people are truly remarkable.
From day one, Nathan has gone above and beyond to ensure that every team member feels heard, respected, and supported. Regardless of how busy or high-pressured the environment may be, he always take the time to listen attentively, offer clear and constructive guidance, and ensure no one ever feels overlooked or rushed. His calm, encouraging presence fosters a positive, solution-focused work culture where everyone feels empowered to contribute.
What truly sets him apart is not just his people skills, but his proactive support for innovation and operational improvements. When I proposed the Body Worn Camera (BWC) roadshow to promote awareness and best practices across the country, Nathan immediately recognised its potential and offered his full support helping turn a simple idea into a successful, impactful initiative. Nathan also implemented practical, forward-thinking solutions such as the efficient queuing system now used at Marylebone during major disruptions, significantly improving customer experience and crowd management.
His commitment goes far beyond standard expectations. Whether day or night, he is always available to support the team and respond to any urgent issues particularly during critical situations at Marylebone. I have never worked with a manager so consistently present, approachable, and deeply committed to both staff and passengers.
It is rare to find a leader with such a balance of empathy, innovation, and operational excellence. I am proud to nominate him for this award not only because of what he does, but because of how does it: with integrity, humility, and a constant focus on making things better for everyone." said Ingrid Hrehova.
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Peter Finch
Company Name
Chiltern Railways
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Peter is one of those diligent, hard working managers that the industry relies on without being fully aware of his impact. He leads by example, supports his team and gets things done properly through sheer hard work. At a Chiltern Management conference attendees were advised to "Be more Peter", which indicates the regard that his peers have for him.
Recent examples of his work at Chiltern include; the performance aspects of the highly successful May 23 timetable, independent reviews of fleet delivery and safety incidents, and joint project work with the Central Route Performance Team.
The title Manager of the Year implies an award for one specific piece of work that year; however in this case the nominations is for the hard work in every year.
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Przemek Lastun
Company Name
WM Trains
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Przemek (Sham) Consistently fosters a positive and collaborative team environment. He is always willing to lend a helping hand, leading by example, he is a great mentor for team members regardless of grade, and does not shy away from providing constructive feedback. Sham's dedication to team development has led to increased morale and improved performance across the board, which is refreshing to see.
Beyond his technical skills and leadership qualities, Sham demonstrates a strong commitment to our company values.
He consistently prioritises ethical conduct, strives for excellence, and inspire others to do the same.
Sham will constantly take a holistic view and will think outside of the box for what is best for the business and for his teams/stations and customer experience, striving for ways to improve.
Sham is often asked to regularly assume many more roles than can be listed in this submission. In most cases, Sham recognises what needs to be done prior to being asked and completes these tasks in a timely and thorough manner.
Sham has a cheerful attitude, a calm presence, and a can-do attitude,
If you were to look up positive culture, perseverance, accountability or loyalty to team – you would find Sham in the definition.
I am confident that Sham is an outstanding leader and a true asset to our organisation."
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Richard Jones
Company Name
Greater Anglia
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Richard is the Depot Operations and Depot Development Manager at Crown Point Depot, for Greater Anglia. He has been in this role since 2020 after many varied roles beforehand, all within the Engineering Department. He has worked within the railway setting for 36 years in total.
Richard has been a stalwart, dedicated member of our team for many years, and his experience is second to none. As an engineer, his background allows him to be inquisitive and detailed but as a people manager he is fair and kind. He gives feedback constructively, guidance when needed and he makes me and others smile daily. It is quite a unique to have that balance and that serves him very well in his role but also also reflects in the staff he manages. He has unwavering support for depot activities and his knowledge about our depot, trains and operations are second to none.
Over the past month Richards health has deteriorated which has meant he has been unable to do some of the things he loves as part of his role, but he has been stoic, jolly and really pushed through to ensure he can help the team in as many ways as possible. His latest success has been creating huge amounts of safety documentation and making sure everyone within the depot stays safe. It has been a massive success and it is lovely to see him still leading from the top and being so adaptable.
He really is a credit to our yard team, to our Engineering team and to Greater Anglia, and would be genuinely worthy of winning this award.
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Richard Tandy
Company Name
GTR
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Richard is the epitome of what an exceptional leader should be - dedicated, driven, compassionate and consistently focused on excellence. As the On Board Supervisor Manager at Horsham, Richard brings together operational precision and inspirational leadership in a way that delivers real results for colleagues, customers and the wider railway.
His leadership is marked by an unrelenting attention to detail and a deep-rooted pride in getting things right. Richard doesn’t wait for problems to arise, he actively seeks out opportunities for improvement and acts quickly to implement practical changes that make a positive difference. His focus is always on supporting his team and our wider team, ensuring they have the tools, information, and confidence to deliver their roles to the highest standards.
Richard’s dedication to his team is nothing short of exemplary. He leads with care, integrity and has a genuine desire to see others succeed. His calm reassuring presence and ability to prioritise under pressure makes him a pillar of strength for those around him. His colleagues often look to him not only for answers but for clarity, perspective and sound judgement which he offers consistently and without hesitation.
Uniquely, Richard also leads our On Board Coordinator team within Three Bridges ROC. This team is responsible for real time coordination of all Southern and Gatwick Express On Board Supervisors, ensuring coverage across the network to avoid cancellations. This is a high pressure responsibility, yet Richard leads this with absolute professionalism and poise. His leadership in this area is second to none and he consistently strives to make the process more efficient, resilient and fair for all involved.
In addition to his core duties, Richard volunteered to take on responsibility for the coordination of GTR’s On Board Mystery Shopping results. Thanks to his efforts, feedback is shared quickly and with the wider On Board team, enabling timely awareness and support. This initiative, led entirely by Richard, has already helped to deliver measurable year on year improvements in customer service performance across the On Board team.
His impact doesn’t stop there. Richard also led our summer preparedness for the On Board team and he is now involved in our autumn and winter readiness. His diligent proactive approach ensures our teams have the information they need to be ready for whatever challenges the seasons bring.
Richard is widely respected as an expert in multiple areas of our operation although never seeks the spotlight. He is one of our true unsung heroes - he gets the job done, supports others and drives progress quietly and powerfully behind the scenes.
His ability to calmly manage competing priorities is an inspiration. He is not just a manager, he is a leader, a mentor and is a vital part of what makes our On Board operation succeed. For all of these reasons and more, Richard is a thoroughly deserving nominee for Rail Manager of the Year.
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Sheree Whetren
Company Name
SWR
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
For engaging the local primary school and wider community through
events and displays and raising the profile of the station, encouraging more young families
to use rail transport.
● Allowing and organising the waiting room to be used as a gallery to display the children’s firework artwork. The locals (especially parents and grandparents) made special trips to view this art.
● Arranging and supporting at a trip for Year R children to meet Santa and have a story read by him in the waiting room. The children hung their homemade, recycled decorations on the community tree, after learning about sustainability. Sheree bought and wrapped gifts for Santa to give to each of the 90 children who attended. They were delighted and say it was the highlight of their year.
● Arranged a Christmas fayre held at the station - craft stalls, mulled wine, the school choir sang, Rotary club sleigh and charities represented - good attendance by local families.
● Again liaised with school to use the waiting room as gallery for whole school Valentine artwork, generating footfall.
● Organising Spring planting by groups of children known as The Green Heroes, from Berrywood Primary - they planted bulbs and
bedding plants to form the word BEE. Supervised by Nick, a valued volunteer that Sheree co-ordinatates.
● Organising a Year 2 trip to find out about the Strawberry train line. Classes of 32 children took a train to Eastleigh (and back) where Sheree, Chris and the Community Rail Officer spoke to them about the history and safety of the station. This was educational and GREATLY appreciated, some children had never been on a train before.
● Facilitating the Green Heroes group of 10 year olds to litter pick at station.
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Simi Tinubu
Company Name
Greater Anglia
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I would like to nominate Simi for the Leader of the Year Award in recognition of her exceptional leadership, unwavering support, and the genuine care she shows to everyone she works with.
Simi is not only an outstanding manager — she is also a deeply compassionate and thoughtful person. She has played a pivotal role in my own development, shaping me into the manager I am today. Through her consistent guidance, constructive feedback, and ability to adapt her leadership style to meet individual needs, she has helped me grow with confidence and clarity.
What sets Simi apart is her humanity. During challenging times, both professionally and personally, she has been a constant source of support — steady, understanding, and present. Her ability to lead with empathy while still holding high standards creates a safe, motivating environment where people can thrive.
Simi truly embodies the values of our team. Whether it's "Hare to Care," "Proud to be Hare," or "Hare Today and Tomorrow," Simi lives these every day — not just in words, but in her actions. Her leadership doesn’t just get results; it builds people, nurtures culture, and inspires loyalty.
For her exceptional leadership, integrity, and compassion, I wholeheartedly nominate Simi for Leader of the Year.
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Stu Vinten
Company Name
GB Railfreight
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Stu Vinten has been with GB Railfreight for over 20 years and is currently the Regional Manager at its Operational HQ in Peterborough. Starting out as a train driver, Stu brings a practical understanding of the railway to his leadership. For the past 10 years, he’s managed one of the company’s largest depots, always focusing on supporting his team and keeping operations running smoothly.
Stu is known for his steady, approachable leadership and his willingness to get involved in all aspects of the job and will always step in to help anyone with anything. He’s played a key part in delivering important projects, such as setting up the RHTT site and launching rail services for East West Rail. Stu has also worked closely with contractors at the Maintenance Hub and is a trusted mentor to Train Managers and Operations Managers. Most recently, he helped bring GBRf’s newest locomotive, the Class 99, into service.
What really stands out about Stu is the way he looks after his team. He’s approachable, fair, and genuinely cares about people’s wellbeing. When colleagues have faced difficult family situations, Stu has been flexible with working patterns and leave, making sure people get the support they need. His team know they can rely on him to listen and help.
Stu also recognises the value of diversity in the rail industry. He’s made a real effort to recruit people from a wider range of backgrounds into Regional Operator and Train Manager roles, helping to make the team more representative and welcoming.
Outside of work, Stu shares his own story—having built his career without going to university—to encourage young people in local schools. He’s also mentored a pupil from a disadvantaged background in Peterborough, showing that there are many ways to build a rewarding career in rail.
Stu’s people-first approach and commitment to helping others make him a great example of what a rail manager should be.
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15
RAILWAY DEPOT TEAM OR PERSON AWARD
This award recognises individuals or teams working in railway depots who go above and beyond in maintaining, operating, and managing rolling stock, freight services, and depot operations. It celebrates those who ensure trains are safe, reliable, and ready for service, keeping the rail network running efficiently. Nominees may include engineers, technicians, freight coordinators, depot managers, or any team member whose dedication, problem-solving skills, and teamwork contribute to the seamless functioning of rail services.
Example job titles in this category:
Section Planner, Operations Supervisor, Regional Support Assistants, Maintenance Delivery Team, Resource Planner, Train Presentation Supervisor, Production Manager, Freight Manager, Depot Manager, Shunter, Freight Forwarder, Rolling Stock Field Engineer, Rolling Stock Approvals, Electrical Engineer - Rolling Stock, Fleet Performance, Field Maintenance, Signaller..
You can see all the past winners here.
Allerton TCC Depot Driver and Movements Team
Company Name
Northern Trains
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
When safety comes first, excellence follows.
At Allerton Train Care Centre, the Driver and Movements Team lead by example. Safety isn’t just a priority it’s part of who they are. Through disciplined routines, proactive reporting, and a strong sense of ownership, they’ve built a culture that delivers consistent, incident-free performance and sets the standard across the network.
Introduction
The Depot Driver and Movements Team (consisting of Movement Supervisors and D.P roles) are at the heart of safe train operations. On a typical night they manage arrivals consisting of up to 123 train vehicles, keeping everything running smoothly and safely. Their calm, professional approach ensures every move is made with care, and their commitment to doing things properly has shaped a culture where safety is second nature.
How They Deliver
Starting Strong: Every shift begins with booking-on; rested, equipped, and briefed, it sets the tone for the shift.
Clear Communication: The Method of Work is followed without exception; everyone knows what’s expected and that builds trust.
Close Call Culture: Reporting is proactive and taken seriously. Feedback from the front line has led to real changes in how the Train Care Centre operates.
Safe-to-Move Mindset: Every movement is made with safety front and centre. The team’s discipline and accountability have helped maintain a strong track record of incident-free performance.
What People Say
• Mainline Driver: “Allerton’s approach to safety is proactive, not reactive. They’ve built a culture where doing the right thing is second nature.”
• Mainline Driver: “The Operational Team were excellent, really professional, approachable and easy to get along with but at the same time it’s obvious they don’t overlook safety, and things are taken very seriously which gave me a lot of confidence in how the depot is managed.”
• Allerton Driver Team Manager: “Driver Team Manager: “Clear procedures and mutual respect give staff the confidence to take ownership. It’s driving real results.”
• Liverpool Lime Street Driver Manager: “I’ve worked with Allerton since day one. The team is consistently professional, clear in communication and always supportive. Their collaborative approach makes a real difference.”
The Human Side
This team doesn’t shout about what they do, they just get on with it. There’s a quiet confidence in how they work, built on mutual respect and high standards. They hold each other accountable, support one another, and never cut corners. As one colleague put it, “The Operational Team were excellent, really professional, approachable and easy to get along with, but at the same time it’s obvious they don’t overlook safety and things are taken very seriously.” - It’s this balance between teamwork, trust, and a shared commitment to doing things properly that underpins the consistent high performance of the Allerton Depot Driver and Movements Team.
It is for these consistent high standards, proactive attitude to safety and the culture the team has created, that Allerton Depot Driver and Movements Team deserve to be recognised as Depot Team of the Year.
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Andy Booth, Driver, Southport TCD
Company Name
Merseyrail
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Andy Booth, Driver, Southport TCD
We are thrilled to nominate Andy Booth for Driver of the Year. Andy stands out as a dedicated and hardworking driver who brings exceptional skill - and a brilliant sense of humour - to every shift. Outstanding performance - Andy performs his duties to a high standard always putting safety first and following the rule book. He is enthusiastic about delivering on time, improving customer service, and achieving the goals of Merseyrail. Spark of Morale and Encouragement - What truly sets Andy apart is his sense of humour - he lightens up the cab and lifts everyone's spirits. His good-natured jokes and upbeat attitude make long shifts enjoyable, and he never fails to spread positivity across the team. Mentorship and Support - When other colleagues were considering joining Merseyrail, Andy offered genuine encouragement and confidence - and reinforced his reputation as someone who brings out the best in others.
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Andy Turton
Company Name
Southern
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Andy is a Driving Instructor at Eastbourne Depot and has been nominated for this award for his consistent hard work and dedication to his job and colleagues and ensuring the best service possible is available for our passengers. For the second year running Andy has gone out of his way to support and assist during fatal incidents. Not only has Andy managed the scene until emergency services arrive, but an incident occurred last year where he came out to support a driver who had witnessed a fatality and spent the next few hours with him, providing crucial post incident support to help with limiting the anxiety and stress the driver was beginning to experience.
Andy frequently goes above and beyond to help the depot in times of disruption and is quick to offer his help before he's even been asked. During a period of severe disruption last year, Andy offered his services after he had finished driving to help shunt units back into the yard. These actions not only helped us return units to where they were meant to be, but helped both the shunters and the station staff to maintain the service for our passengers. This year, Andy played a crucial role in keeping the depot moving when he was ready and willing to step in at short notice to plan and deliver briefings at short notice to enable services to continue to run.
As a Driving Instructor Andy is incredibly supportive of his trainees and always goes the extra mile to understand them and put together a training plan that works for each individual. Andy's willingness to consider the depot as a whole is also seen here, as he frequently changes his schedules to suit his trainees and ensure he can get them back on track as safely and quickly as he can.
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Carstairs Track Team
Company Name
Netwrokrail
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Ive nominated my Track Maintenance Team :Carstairs Pway..Throughout the past 12 months we have had massive challenges like no other but we still deliver safely and keep the train performances to a high run rate on the west coast main line..
With a great Section Planner and Supervisor we have Renewed 8 xings..4+1/2 set of switches..Miles and miles off rail defects...Renewed defective Ibjs..Imposing Speed restrictions... Geometry defects/Weld repairing xings/Renewing sleepers/Insight defects/Responding to flooding/Earthworks slippages onto the track/Bumps on the line all controlled in a proper manner to maintain safety and train performance
All achieved with 82% off my section Saturday night only access......Running with staff turnaround losing 93years experience and bringing new members into the team..Vacancies/sickness/restricted duties all add up but still deliver safely
Heartbrokenly losing one of my most senior team leaders who passed away at Newton platform during the shift last November..Staff on site tried there best by delivering CPR they were trained to do but unfortunately it was to late...To deliver what we have especially still grieving and hurting is a credit to my team making sure the West coast mail line is compliant and fit for the millions and millions off the traveling public that use the network each year
My staff have went above and beyond showing great NWR values...Dedication..Communication and most off all working together as a team to get through not just the unmanageable workload on my shoulders but to lose one of our own at site at Newton was heart-breaking and still is...Testament to the Loyal team i have
All to keep the West coast running to schedule
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Central Rail System Alliance Eastern S&T Team
Company Name
Central Rail Systems Alliance
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The CRSA East S&T team are the unsung heroes of Eastern Track Renewals, the attention to detail and dedication & team ethos to providing S&T Installation & Testing Cover is unquestionable. They often go about their business unnoticed but also have to react to late change or provide incident response and are often the saviour to the travelling public by mitigation of situations outside of their control on site and providing solutions for right time handback - recently the team provided full S&T cover including Points Fitting to 12 S&C deployments over an 8 week period, a monumental feat given the size of the team.
Led by Jason Dunscombe - CRSA East's Head of Signalling, the team go about their business with enthusiasm, and an unrivalled level of professionalism.
They collaborate positively with every aspect of the wider business including P-Way Delivery, Design and New Works Testing Engineers to ensure that their part of the programme is efficient and within budget.
A true credit to the industry and far too often not given the credit they absolutely deserve.
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Cheryl King
Company Name
GTR
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As Team Leader for the Administrative Support Team, Cheryl brings calm, clarity, and a consistently positive attitude to every challenge — always ready with a listening ear, a cup of tea, and a helping hand wherever it’s needed.
Her positive attitude is infectious, and her ability to stay composed under pressure makes her a trusted and respected figure across Thameslink & Great Northern. Throughout Cheryl's long railway career she has constantly demonstrated her strength in building relationships, anticipating the needs of her colleagues, and delivering for all her stakeholders. She’s the kind of person who makes a team stronger simply by being part of it.
Emma Pickard, Joint Network Operations and Performance Director, describes Cheryl as “a dedicated member of the team who quietly and efficiently delivers solid outcomes whilst working to our values and behaviours.” Emma adds, “She builds great relationships and brings confidence through her calm and knowledgeable approach.”
Her foresight and responsiveness are equally valued. Sam Benson, Employee Relations Manager, highlights Cheryl’s proactive support and ability to anticipate needs, noting that her contributions “significantly enhance the team's efficiency and effectiveness.” He adds, “Her overall work ethic is remarkable, and she is an asset to the team.”
Richard Clark, Area Operations Manager, calls Cheryl “the anchor that keeps us organised and pointed in the right direction.” Her leadership in coordinating timetable changes and other critical processes ensures that operations remain smooth and coordinated. “Her calm and positive demeanour result in her being respected and appreciated by all that come into contact with her,” Richard adds. “Frankly, without her I feel I would be significantly less productive in my own role.”
Scott Milne, Head of Driver Operations notes "Cheryl is an absolutely integral part of the Kings Cross support team and I'm incredibly grateful for the support she provides to me and the wider Train Services team every day"
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Dai Robinson
Company Name
Network Rail
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Throughout his 18 year rail career Dai has been the backbone of any team he has worked in.
Starting on the tools as an operative, He has worked his way through the grades and since November 2019 has been a Section Manager in 2 Track sections within Cardiff Delivery Unit leading his teams by the example he sets.
At every opportunity Dai spends time on site and gets his hands dirty, mentoring junior staff who are new to the industry. Coaching and encouraging them to perform at their best through leading by example and on site learning, Always available for advice.
Over the past 2 years Dai has been instrumental in driving improved train performance through the introduction of new technology and methods of working. Actively promoting the use of RCM technology to eliminate Service Affecting Track defects such as Broken crossings and Point Failures (None since technology has been deployed within his section) Utilising Insight which is a decision support tool and promoting its use within the section to reduce Cyclic Top faults which when found introduce Emergency speed restrictions for freight which causes congestion on busy mainline routes. It has been over 12 months since the last recorded actionable cyclic top ESR was detected on Cardiff Track Section through the proactive approach to the utilisation of this new technology.
The next generation of rail staff and engineers are a key priority for Dai, implementing a programme of training and holding career conversations with all his staff to enable those who want to strive the best opportunity with continued support.
In terms of Performance metrics Dai has reduced the number of delay minutes by over 75% within Cardiff from 7.6k to 1.5k in the past year. Service affecting failures which stood at 40 in 2021 and 24/25 were at 9. This is an incredible improvement in train performance and demonstrates the true meaning of putting passengers first!
He also isn't shy to taking on the bigger projects - Leading and delivering on small scale renewal items to improve relations with key stakeholders, Back in July 2024 undertaking a S&C and 120m Plain Line renewal which was of key importance to a TOC at short notice to enable their fleet transformation project, and most recently in September 2025 a S&C renewal on one of the most critical assets on approach to Cardiff station which takes the majority of train services West of Wales to Newport and beyond on the SWM2, The most critical ELR within the Wales Route. Meticulous planning and preparation by Dai in the lead up to this work ensured smooth and safe delivery Dai took ownership of the whole project from Site Visits personally holding all whiteboard meetings and site visits, involved in all prep works prior and then delivery on multiple shifts. An excellent piece of work that is well and truly above the grade but is done through a passion and pride for his section to deliver the best possible service for TOC's & FOC's.
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Hannah Butler
Company Name
Govia Thameslink Railway
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I’d like to nominate Hannah for Depot Person of the Year. Working in the same team, I’ve seen first-hand the how hard she works and the impact she has across her depots and the wider business.
Hannah has worked in rail for over 10 years, starting in stations before moving into operations. That has given her an all-round view of the customer need and shows in the strong relationships she has built with every team across GTR. She doesn’t just focus on her own patch — she connects people, shares ideas and makes sure everything she does benefits the whole business. Shown recently in her drive to improve information during disruption, which has had cross-business benefits and is already delivering excellent results.
As AOM for Thameslink, Hannah is responsible for nine managers and more than 250 frontline staff across some of the busiest parts of the network. It’s a huge responsibility, but it never phases her. She never loses sight of the people behind the numbers, often joining staff on cab rides or taking time to stop and chat on platforms. She balances performance with making sure staff feel supported, motivated and proud of their work, while always keeping passengers at the heart of her everything.
Hannah is innovative, constantly creating new processes and fresh approaches to old problems. She has transformed communication within our teams by adding to Teams chats for every depot, keeping drivers and managers connected in real time. She also launched quarterly Virtual Team Briefs, which can be joined live or watched back anytime of day. These changes have modernised communication, made it more inclusive and strengthened trust. This was reflected in the “Your View” staff survey, where her depots achieved the highest line management index score and response rate across TLGN depots, with a huge increase from the previous year.
Ask anyone… what really makes Hannah stand out is her drive. She’s the force that pushes things forward — nothing would move without her motivation, bravery and determination to try new things. She doesn’t accept “that’s how it’s always been done,” and she inspires her managers to think differently too. You only need to walk into one of her depots to see the difference: colours, murals, plants, wellbeing spaces — small touches that show care and lift morale.
Her leadership is also defined by recognition. Whether through gold coins, Star Awards, cakes or a simple thank you, she makes sure people feel appreciated. Her team know they can count on her in any situation, and that consistency builds loyalty and pride.
Her influence also extends beyond GTR. Recently, she represented the company on a national pilot training course with RDG and CIRO, helping shape how future train crew managers will be trained while building new relationships and sharing best practice.
The railway needs people like Hannah — passionate, innovative and determined to make things better. She inspires her team and everyone around her to do better every day, no one is more deserving for this.
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Ian Johnson
Company Name
GTR
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Ian leads the team of managers in the Thameslink North Area he pushes us to deliver High Levels of reports and inspections he leads from the front and is always availabe to help the other managers in his team . he keeps the pressure from above off his team and is in constant touch locally in regards to local Management issues.
He drives us hard but celebrates as a team when we achieve our goals
Ians greatest asset is his team and he recognises it and the individuals that form part of the team He help them develop and encourages them when they take the lead in anything
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Jack Farley
Company Name
Great Western Railway
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Jack Farley consistently goes above and beyond in maintaining and managing rolling stock, ensuring trains are safe, reliable, and ready for service. As a Shift Technician at Reading Train Care Depot, Jack has demonstrated exceptional dedication, problem-solving, and leadership across multiple high-profile projects, playing a key role in keeping GWR’s rail operations running smoothly.
Jack began his journey with GWR as an engineering apprentice and quickly proved his capability and commitment. When the Class 387s were introduced in 2016, Jack volunteered to work at North Pole Depot—away from his home base and on unfamiliar rolling stock. Despite being new to the role, he delivered maintenance to the highest standards, enabling reliable service and increased passenger capacity. His adaptability and professionalism inspired colleagues and set a benchmark for excellence.
In 2017, Jack again stepped forward to lead operations at West Ealing Light Maintenance Depot as Person In Charge. Managing train movements and maintenance, he ensured safety KPIs were consistently met and trains entered service clean and dependable. His leadership in this role was particularly impressive given the complexity and responsibility involved so early in his career.
Jack’s contributions to the Class 769 project further highlight his impact. He led the engineering workstream, coordinated with suppliers, and represented GWR at senior-level meetings which was well above his grade. His work directly supported the safe and efficient rollout of new fleet capabilities. Jack also advocated for customer focused enhancements, such as improved seating features, demonstrating his commitment to service quality.
Jack took a leading role on the Class 230 Battery Train project where during his time on this project continued to deliver outstanding results. His proactive approach, technical expertise, and collaborative spirit have made him a linchpin in depot operations.
Recently Jack has led heavy maintenance delivery of the Class 387 fleet which involved planning out the activities and streamline and productionised the activities which is an heavily intrusive maintenance activity. Jack engaged with the train planning team to ensure that whilst this took place that there were enough trains to continue to deliver trains for service, he also engaged with other stakeholders to successfully deliver.
Jack’s unwavering focus on safety, reliability, and teamwork has had a tangible impact on colleagues and customers alike and his attitude continues to elevate team morale.
Jack Farley exemplifies the spirit of this award. Through his dedication, initiative, and consistent delivery, he has helped ensure GWR’s trains are maintained to the highest standards, supporting seamless rail service and setting an example for others across the industry.
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Jodie Lund, Katherine Braybrook, Rebecca Jacobs
Company Name
GTR
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Katherine Braybrook, Rebecca Jacobs, and Jodie Lund – Roster Production Team
I am delighted to nominate Katherine Braybrook, Rebecca Jacobs, and Jodie Lund for the Depot Team Award. As the Roster Production Team for London Bridge and Victoria traincrew depots, they have transformed depot performance through innovation, collaboration, and exceptional dedication.
Over the last three years, their expertly crafted rosters directly contributed to 2024 seeing the best summer and Christmas performance periods since before COVID. By carefully analysing duty allocations, they reduced inefficiencies across diagrams, achieving average weekly savings of £4,500, equating to approximately £234,000 per annum.
Katherine, Rebecca, and Jodie’s work goes far beyond cost efficiency. They have worked closely with local staff representatives and depot management to deliver rosters that significantly improve compliance with safety standards, demonstrating a genuine commitment to colleague wellbeing and operational excellence.
This team embodies the Rail Staff Awards’ values of excellence, collaboration, and safety. Their meticulous planning, innovative thinking, and unwavering dedication have not only driven measurable financial and operational impact but also fostered a safer, more sustainable working environment for all depot colleagues.
Katherine, Rebecca, and Jodie are a model of what a high-performing depot team can achieve. Their achievements deserve recognition at the highest level.
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Prosecutions team
Company Name
South Western Railway
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It is with immense respect and admiration that I nominate the South Western Railway prosecutions team for their exceptional performance in a demanding and often underappreciated role. This nomination is a tribute to their outstanding ability to balance legal enforcement with human empathy, navigate significant industry changes, and maintain a culture of excellence and mutual support.
Mastering the Emotional Spectrum
The prosecutions team operates in a truly unique environment, one where they are on the front lines of human emotion. From the moment they engage with a customer, they must be prepared for a wide range of reactions—from intense anger and deep distress to complete emotional detachment. The team’s skill in de-escalation is paramount. They handle heated confrontations with remarkable poise and professionalism, ensuring that even the most upset individuals feel heard and are treated with respect. Concurrently, they must also deal with those who show little emotion, expertly explaining the gravity of a situation and the available options without coming across as uncaring or bureaucratic. This ability to adapt their approach to everyone’s emotional state is a core component of their great customer service, building trust and ensuring a fair process for all involved.
Navigating a Sea of Change
The railway industry has undergone monumental shifts, particularly the transitions between privatisation and nationalisation. These changes have brought about a complex and ever-evolving landscape of new policies, procedures, and legal requirements. The prosecutions team has not only kept pace with these developments but has done so with a remarkable level of proficiency. They have consistently adapted to new frameworks, ensuring that their work, whether dealing with a low-level settlement or a high-stakes prosecution, remains consistent, fair, and legally sound. Their resilience and dedication to continuous learning are a testament to their commitment to their roles, allowing them to uphold the integrity of the railway’s revenue protection efforts regardless of the prevailing political or corporate structure.
A Foundation of Support and Collaboration
What truly distinguishes this team is the robust culture of support they have cultivated. They understand that the challenging nature of their work requires them to be a strong, cohesive unit. This is evident in the way they support each other, offering guidance on difficult cases and providing emotional backup in stressful situations. This collaborative spirit extends beyond their immediate team, fostering strong and productive relationships with the revenue department and other key stakeholders. This seamless cooperation ensures that the entire process, from initial ticket inspection to final resolution, is efficient and effective. This internal strength is the bedrock upon which their external success is built.
In recognition of their exceptional professionalism, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to both customer service and each other, I believe the South Western Railway prosecutions team is a truly deserving candidate for this nomination.
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Sab Oueslati, Train Manager, Birkenhead Central Depot
Company Name
Merseyrail
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Sab Oueslati, Train Manager, Birkenhead Central TCD
What a fantastic individual Sab Oueslati is within the mess room environment and Train Crew office at Birkenhead Central. Sab is such a kind, warm and supportive colleague. He’s gentle, friendly and always makes time for all employees. He is sincere and genuine and has amazing ethics and morals. He treats everyone with respect and is a fantastic addition to the team at the depot. Sab has time for everyone and will always ensure that all colleagues are acknowledged and appreciated. He’s polite, caring, and courteous. Sab would certainly be a worthy winner of this award.
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Scott Rankin
Company Name
Freightliner
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I have nominated Scott, because he is always very helpful and always on the other end of the phone whenever I have needed help in the past. He is always happy to jump in and assist with last minute problems and offer fantastic solutions and assist us in getting everything boxed off. He is also pivital in making sure all of our shunt drivers at Crewe are trained up on the required traction and making sure the yard is fully manned.
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Walter Wright
Company Name
Network Rail
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Walter Wright has proven himself to be an exceptional planner within the Delivery Unit, consistently demonstrating professionalism, commitment, and a genuine willingness to support colleagues. Planning is one of the most challenging and critical roles in the railway — ensuring that people, plant, and materials are in the right place at the right time to keep the network safe and operational. Walter excels in this role, balancing complex demands with calm efficiency and an unfailing positive attitude.
Walter is always ready to assist, sharing his extensive knowledge of the railway and stepping in to cover for his section manager when needed. His ability to manage workloads and maintain continuity during these periods has been invaluable, ensuring that operations continue seamlessly and that teams on the ground are properly supported.
What sets Walter apart is his helpfulness and reliability. He is approachable and responsive, always willing to go the extra mile to solve problems, clarify details, or provide guidance. This not only supports his colleagues but also strengthens delivery outcomes across the DU.
By consistently ensuring that resources are in place, Walter plays a vital role in enabling safe and efficient maintenance of the railway. His planning expertise reduces disruption, supports frontline teams, and contributes directly to keeping passengers and freight moving.
In summary, Walter Wright is an outstanding planner whose dedication, knowledge, and collaborative approach make him an asset to both his team and the wider railway. He is highly deserving of recognition in this award category.
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15
SAFETY TEAM OR PERSON AWARD
This award honours an individual or team who has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to safety within the rail industry. Whether through innovative safety initiatives, maintaining high safety standards, or fostering a culture of risk awareness, nominees will have played a pivotal role in protecting passengers, colleagues, and the public. Judges will be looking for those who lead by example and actively contribute to making rail operations safer for all.
Example job titles for this category:
Signalling, Signaller, HSQE Advisor, Operations Standards Manager, HSEA Manager, Possession & Rimini Planner, Safety and Compliance Controller, COSS, Training Specialist, Infrastructure Maintainer, Maintenance Workforce Safety Advisor, Workforce Health Safety & Environment Advisor, Incident Response, Competence Manager, Transport Police, SQE Advisor...
You can see all the past winners here.
Alstom RSC EHS Team
Company Name
Alstom
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
The EHS Team at Alstom Derby demonstrated outstanding leadership, coordination, and commitment to safety in delivering The Greatest Gathering—the first time the Derby site opened its doors to the public in over 50 years. Their work ensured that this landmark event was not only a celebration of rail innovation and community engagement, but also a model of operational safety and risk management.
Their contribution exemplifies what it means to lead by example—protecting colleagues, visitors, and the public through meticulous planning, proactive communication, and a deeply embedded safety culture.
Safety Contributions
Event Safety Planning & Execution
The EHS team played a central role in preparing the site for thousands of visitors, including families, local officials, and industry partners. Their responsibilities included:
• Conducting risk assessments across all public zones.
• Coordinating emergency response protocols with local services.
• Managing crowd control, signage, and safe access routes.
• Overseeing contractor compliance and site readiness.
Their planning ensured that every aspect of the event—from interactive exhibits to live demonstrations—was delivered safely and professionally.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
The EHS team worked closely with engineering, facilities, communications, and CSR teams to align safety protocols with operational and engagement goals. Their ability to integrate safety into every layer of the event was instrumental in its success.
Public Engagement & Safety Awareness
Beyond logistics, the EHS team used the event as a platform to promote safety awareness. They hosted interactive stations, distributed educational materials, and engaged directly with visitors to share Alstom’s safety values and practices.
Results and Impact
• Delivered a well managed public event with minimal safety incidents.
• Strengthened Alstom’s reputation for safety and professionalism.
• Fostered public trust and community engagement through transparent safety practices.
• Set a benchmark for future public-facing rail events.
Why the EHS Team Deserves This Award
The EHS Team at Alstom Derby exemplifies the values of the Safety Person or Team of the Year Award. Their work on The Greatest Gathering was not just operational—it was transformational. They showed that safety is not a barrier to engagement, but a foundation for trust, excellence, and impact.
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Astrit Ibrahimi
Company Name
GTS
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Astrit has demonstrated exceptional leadership, commitment to safety, and strategic vision, making him a standout candidate for Safety Manager of the Year.
He has been instrumental in strengthening safety across the Central Operating Section, with his proactive and collaborative approach leading to measurable improvements in safety culture and incident prevention.
Astrit has played a central role in delivering competency frameworks that ensure our workforce is not only qualified but confident and empowered to uphold the highest standards of safety. His work, alongside his team, has directly contributed to a reduction in safety-related incidents and a significant increase in staff engagement with safety protocols.
His leadership style is recognised for encouraging colleagues, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and creating an environment where continuous learning and accountability thrive. Beyond his operational achievements, Astrit has also driven strategic safety initiatives, with his expertise and insights regularly sought across the organisation.
Astrit exemplifies the qualities of a true safety leader. His contribution has not only enhanced safety performance but also strengthened the reputation of the Central Operating Section as a benchmark for excellence and responsibility.
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Callum Howle and Amy James
Company Name
Freightliner and GB Railfreight
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I would like to nominate the Document Controllers from Freightliner and GB Railfreight, Callum Howell and Amy James.
Background
5 years ago the National Freight Safety Group started a project to develop a Common Safe System of Work (CSSoW) template document that all the Freight Companies agreed to use.
These site specific CSSoWs describe how to safely operate the yard or terminal ensuring any member of groundstaff from any company would know how to manage their train safely at the location.
It is essential that these documents are available and up to date as they cover the safe movement and loading/discharge of the train
The project also engaged a software company to develop an online software package to host these documents which would be available via an App.
The development phase was completed 2 years ago and it moved into “business as usual” with each FOC nominating a representative responsible for uploading and managing these documents.
Callum was nominated for Freightliner and Amy was nominated for GBRf.
The work involved liaising with the local managers responsible for each site, ensuring the document was in the correct format, authorised and then uploading it.
This simple sounding task, actually proved more difficult, as the software system did not perform as well as expected and required more work than was ideal to upload and publish each document, but Callum and Amy worked collaboratively to finds ways to make this as easy as possible, working together with enthusiasm and commitment.
The system started to take shape and documents became available to staff within each freight company.
It was then that a second and unforeseen problem arose; these documents require review every 12 months, but the software was unable to issue a reminder to the document author that it was due for review.
One of the most important things is that these documents are regularly reviewed to ensure that they are up-to-date and any safety improvements that have been made in the previous 12 months are incorporated into the latest document on the system.
Recognising that this created a potentially serious problem, Callum and Amy discussed and worked through options to prevent this and, in the end, they decided to use the internal Freightliner document control system to provide email alerts to the author, irrespective of which freight company they worked for.
Callum contacted the software company, explained the problem and the software was changed as requested.
Amy supported him by acting as the “End User”, checking that the system worked correctly and that document alerts were being sent out in the correct format.
Working together, Amy and Callum have ensured that all their Company locations have been identified and documents uploaded, which now means that any freight company going into any of those locations will have an up-to-date copy of the location safe system of work.
They are to be congratulated on their commitment and enthusiasm for undertaking this work, which was unplanned and in addition to their normal roles in Freightliner and GBRf.
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Chris Cunningham
Company Name
Merseyrail
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Chris Cunningham, Safety Business Partner, Rail House
Chris joined us on a secondment in the safety team and in that time, he has embraced safety, obtaining a NEBOSH general. Chris brings something different to the team and has led key campaigns such as the redesign of the safety code, which was done in collaboration with the H&S representatives to make it more role specific and protecting our employees from harm whilst at work. Chris has ensured that the safety team work in harmony with other departments and has been collaborating with the Health & Wellbeing team to deliver a serious of employee roadshows to raise the profile of the safety code, which is a first for the safety team! Another standout campaign that Chris has led is the "i want to hold your hand campaign", this has been designed after Chris identified a rise in the number of STF accidents (over 60% in 2024), the campaign is bold and has been well received by the industry for being that bit different but also a nod to our region. Chris is a really deserving winner of this award, he really does everything he can do to help create a safe environment at Merseyrail. He is incredibly enthusiastic about ensuring that our colleagues are fully aware of the safety code and do what they can to avoid any accidents from happening. I loved how involved and passionate he was to help ensure our Summer Health & Wellbeing Roadshows were a success. It was great to have lots of different members of the safety team join us. Chris was creative in his approach and this ensured that there were high levels of colleague engagement. I really feel that he just be recognised for his efforts, he is a fantastic role model.
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Cliff Moody
Company Name
Network Rail
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Cliff constantly demonstrates outstanding leadership of the team under his guidance and mentorship. He formed the team almost 5 years ago with the idea of getting a variety of skills together to be able to deliver a balanced service for our customers, (who are the whole of the North & East Routes staff).
The team is a mixture of H&S, Front line (on the tools) & Training delivery experience, together with staff new to the railway and health & safety. He is constantly there in person or at the end of a phone to offer his expert knowledge and advice on all things health, safety and environmental.
He sets realistic and proactive objectives to ensure we as a team can deliver an end product which reduces the risk to staff and progresses these workstreams when and where his influence is required, by securing funding and getting the buy-in from higher management.
His concern though is not just work related, the mental health of the team is a top priority and the care he shows us all and insistence on balancing work/home life on a scale we have not seen from any manager previously, while obviously helping us carry out the great proactive (and reactive) work the team delivers. He listens to all of his team with their views and frustrations and helps us to overcome problems together to the benefit of all.
Cliff has had a massively positive influence on every member of the team, allowing us all to get stuck into proactive safety initiatives like we have not been able to do on such a scale before. His knowledge and support opens doors to progress things like introducing battery operated tools and equipment across the route, so reducing the risks from vibration/noise/fuels/manual handling to front line staff (the users of the tools & equipment). Health & Wellbeing stand down days have been arranged with full support from Cliff, with great feedback from attendees. He has used his influence to get the safety training project mandated for all N&E staff. He also uses his influence and knowledge to support the team with projects within the individual delivery units.
The beneficiaries of Cliffs leadership skills are firstly, the team, who are developing and learning new skills of their own, and gaining confidence in dealing with everyday issues within their own DUs in the knowledge that they will always have the full backing from Cliff.
Managers and staff who work within the DUs benefit from all the aspects of the teams projects as mentioned above, and have someone visible they can go to for advice on HSE matters. Many front line staff have been directly involved these initiatives and feel they are listened to and can contribute.
All made possible by a true modern day leader.
Cliff has had a massively positive influence on every member of the team, allowing us all to get stuck into proactive safety initiatives like we have not been able to do on such a scale before.
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Fleet QHSE Team
Company Name
Greater Anglia
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We proudly nominate the Engineering Assurance Team for the Safety Team Award in recognition of their exceptional commitment to safety within the rail industry. The team has consistently gone above and beyond to implement innovative safety initiatives, maintain the highest safety standards, and foster a culture of risk awareness throughout all levels of operation. The Engineering Assurance Team comprises of Fleet QSHE, Engineering Assurance Manager (North) covering the Stadler Class 745 and 755 across two depots, Engineering Assurance Manager (South) covering the Alstom Class 720 across two depots, and Engineering Assurance Manager (Train Presentation) covering all Train Presentation cleaning and servicing tasks across 15 locations.
Their dedication to protecting passengers, colleagues, and the public is evident in their proactive approach to safety, consistently identifying and addressing potential risks before they escalate. Through their leadership, the Engineering Assurance Team has played a pivotal role in enhancing safety procedures, ensuring that safety remains at the forefront of daily operations across all engineering locations.
The Engineering Assurance Team’s unwavering focus on continuous improvement has led to significant advancements in risk management practices and has directly contributed to a safer working environment for everyone involved in rail operations. Their ability to lead by example, remain vigilant, and effectively engage others in safety matters has made a lasting impact on safety culture within the organisation.
The Greater Anglia Engineering Assurance Team truly exemplifies what it means to be leaders in safety, and their tireless efforts have been instrumental in ensuring the safety and well-being of all those who rely on rail services. They are deserving of this recognition for their outstanding contributions to making rail operations safer for all.
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Kent Evenden & Jacob Kilsby-Harvey - Norwood Depot Competency Development Team
Company Name
GTR - Southern Railway
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Jacob and Kent form the heart of the Competency Development team at Norwood Depot. Their work goes far beyond the technicalities of the role - they create a safe, supportive, and professional environment where every Driver can thrive.
Both are highly approachable and dedicated, always willing to answer questions on rules, safety procedures, and even complex “what if” scenarios. When an answer isn’t immediately available, they take the time to research and provide drivers with clear, accurate, and thorough feedback. This commitment ensures safety and confidence across the depot.
What sets Jacob and Kent apart is their hands-on approach. They regularly spend time in the cab with Drivers, offering detailed, constructive feedback that helps colleagues not just meet standards but excel. Their kindness, professionalism, and passion for safety mean Drivers feel supported, valued, and encouraged to be the very best at what they do.
Their impact is clear: Jacob and Kent are trusted mentors, role models, and champions of safety - embodying the very best of their profession.
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Matthew Arden
Company Name
Merseyrail
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Matthew Arden, Station Assistant, Hamiliton Square
Matthew is in his first year with Merseyrail and has made some excellent contributions at Hamilton Square Station ,Matt is visible during any service disruption and lives by the values he will ensure that he keeps customers and colleagues safe , Matt will do this by keeping himself fully informed of any new policies and procedures, Matt has an eye for details and will challenge any issues or concerns he has daily, from faults with voice commends in lifts for our visually impaired customers not working, to our fire processes, Matt will follow up on all enquires , in his short time he has built up a lot of respect from the team at Hamilton Square. Matt enthusiasm for all thing safety has become infectious to us all.
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Oliver Edge
Company Name
Network Rail
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On Wednesday 4th June 2025 one of our Mobile Operations managers Oliver Edge was called to a location on the West Coast main line to a distressed female, On arrival the female was found between a metal railing and the wooden facias of the carpark wall on the top floor, she had self-harmed and was upset looking over the car park wall. The Individual did not want to talk at first but then did engage in conversation, she became more agitated when the Police arrived stating she would jump if they came near her, Oliver suggested that the female just talk with him where he then instructed British Transport police to allow him to continue engaging with the female. British Transport Police and Vital Security ensured the public were unable to gain access to the location which may have caused further distress the female. Not long after the female was removed to a place of safety and was admitted to hospital to receive treatment and get the help she needed. The actions that Oliver took on the day to protect and ensure
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On Train Skills and Comptency Managers Kings Cross
Company Name
LNER
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I am delighted to nominate and recognise as an outstanding team the On-Train Skills & Competency Manager at London Kings Cross. Their unwavering commitment to safety, leadership, and innovation has made a profound impact on both colleagues and the overall safety culture at LNER.
The OTSCM's have been instrumental in keeping safety at the forefront of everything we do, championing initiatives that enhance our working environment and ensure the highest standards are met. Their dedication is evident through the successful introduction of Minder Mentor training sessions, providing invaluable guidance and support to developing Train Managers and ensuring best practices are upheld across the board.
Additionally, their leadership in the implementation of body-worn cameras has significantly strengthened our approach to conflict management and staff protection, fostering a safer and more secure environment for both colleagues and customers. Their influence is also reflected in achieving the highest safety investigation score, a testament to their meticulous attention to detail and their drive for continuous improvement.
Above all, the team is truly passionate about making LNER the safest it can be, constantly striving for excellence, innovation, and a culture where safety is embedded in everything we do. Their proactive approach, dedication, and expertise make them an invaluable asset to the company, and I strongly believe they deserve recognition for their outstanding contributions.
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Paula Hilliard
Company Name
Network Rail
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"I am delighted to nominate Paula Hilliard for the Safety Team/Person Award at this year’s Rail Staff Awards. Having had the privilege of working alongside Paula, I can personally attest that she is not only a pleasure to collaborate with but also an inspiring leader in safety.
With over 25 years experience in the rail industry, Paula has developed deep expertise in all aspects of operational safety, including electrical safety for anyone working on or near the line. Her commitment to safety is underpinned by her time as Station Manager at Potters Bar during the horrific incident, which instilled a lifelong passion for ensuring the highest standards of safety within the industry.
Paula consistently leads by example, empowering colleagues to speak up and challenge unsafe practices. She fosters a culture of openness and accountability, where safety is everyone’s responsibility, and people feel confident to act when they see risks.
Her leadership extends to driving pioneering safety initiatives, implementing innovative protocols, and improving reporting processes that strengthen risk awareness and prevent incidents. Her meticulous attention to detail, combined with her experience and passion, has made a measurable difference across her operational area.
Paula embodies the qualities celebrated by this award: dedication, innovation, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to protecting colleagues, passengers, and the public. It has been a genuine pleasure to work with her, and I strongly endorse Paula Hiliard as a deserving recipient of the Safety Team/Person Award." said Andy Hill.
"In Paula's 25 + year career in the rail industry, she has unfortunately attended 2 major train crashes, Hatfield and Potters Bar (where she was unfortunately first on the scene).
These incidents have had a huge impact on Paula's life, she openly says that she didn't come away from those events as the same person, in fact the events have shaped her desire and drive to make a different, to do what she can to protect others, to challenge and change the safety culture of railway organisations, and improve engagement across organisations.
Upon her return to Network Rail, having left TOC organisations in 2020, she has developed and led a series of award-winning electrical safety culture campaigns, working with TU reps and front line employees to highlight and address the challenges that they face, to put safety at the heart of everything and encourage to "ask, check, challenge" to potentially save a life.
Not content with this, she has also embarked on her own leaning challenge and has recently graduated from a NEBOSH degree - and seeks to use her recent studies and insight into everything she does to make the industry a safer place for everyone, from colleagues, service providers and the travelling public." said Louise Francis.
"It is with immense pride that I nominate Paula Hilliard for the Safety Team or Person of the Year award, in recognition of her unwavering commitment to improving safety for everyone working on or near the electrified railway, across the industry.
Paula draws on her immense 25+ years' experience in the industry to inform her work challenging the safety behaviours and cultural norms. A pivotal moment in Paula’s career was her role as station manager during the Potters Bar incident, where she was first on the scene. Witnessing the immediate and long-term impact of safety incidents and life-changing injuries has made safety more than just a professional responsibility for Paula – it's a personal mission.
Upon her return to Network Rail, having left TOC organisations in 2020, she has developed and led a series of award-winning electrical safety culture campaigns, working with Trade Union Representatives and Network Rail and external front-line teams to highlight and address the challenges that they face, to put safety at the heart of everything. Paula’s leadership and innovation have had a transformative impact on rail safety culture at Network Rail. She was the driving force behind a series of powerful safety initiatives including the award winning ‘Electrical Safety Step Up’ and ‘Make a Challenge, Save a Life’ campaign, an industry-first initiative designed to empower frontline workers to speak up and challenge situations which may be unsafe.
The Make a Challenge, Save a Life’ campaign prioritised impact and accessibility, delivering two tailored interactive resource packs (OLE & CRE) designed to support diverse learning styles. It sparked meaningful conversations, with participants sharing experiences and learning from one another. Teams reported feeling more confident to raise concerns and support colleagues, fostering a culture of accountability and care. This ongoing campaign has reached over 52,000 people and was shortlisted at the National Rail Awards, a testament to its effectiveness and industry-wide influence.
Not content with this, Paula introduced the first network wide use of RM3 to assess maturity of electrical safety at Network Rail, the outputs of which drive continuous improvement actions. Outside of work Paula has also embarked on her own leaning challenge and has recently graduated from a NEBOSH degree - and seeks to use her recent studies and insight into everything she does to make the industry a safer place for everyone, from colleagues, service providers, and the travelling public.
Paula’s exceptional commitment, innovative thinking, and ability to inspire those around her make her a truly deserving candidate for this award. She embodies what it means to lead by example and has played a pivotal role in protecting lives across the rail industry. " said Phil Doughty"
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Safety Team
Company Name
Grand Central
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The Safety Team has worked in partnership with the Red Sky Foundation to introduce defibrillators across the network as part of a wide-reaching community and passenger safety initiative. This project ensures that critical life-saving equipment is widely available, demonstrating the team’s proactive approach to protecting both customers and colleagues. We are one step closer to ensuring our passengers are safe throughout their entire journey. On some routes, emergency services can be far away, so having defibrillators available is crucial.
By building this partnership the Safety Team has significantly enhanced rail safety provision and made a meaningful difference to the wellbeing of staff, passengers and the communities they serve.
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Sheffield Station Community First Responder Volunteers
Company Name
East Midlands Railway
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At East Midlands Railway, Sheffield, 6 members of the team have volunteered to be Community First Responders in partnership with Yorkshire Ambulance Service. Community First Responders (CFRs) play a vital role in enhancing emergency care and strengthening the bond between healthcare services and the communities they serve. The station volunteers respond to medical emergencies in their area, before professional crews arrive. Their presence has been lifesaving and continues to support critical situations such as cardiac arrests, strokes, and severe breathing difficulties. The skills they have learned include CPR, defibrillator use, providing oxygen and measuring blood sugars.
One of the most significant impacts of CFRs is their ability to reduce response times. In emergencies, every second counts. Being station based supports early intervention and can dramatically improve survival rates and outcomes. For example, in cases of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, the chances of survival decrease by 10% for every minute without CPR or defibrillation. CFRs can bridge this gap, providing essential care until paramedics arrive.
Beyond clinical outcomes, our station-based CFRs contribute to community resilience and trust. Their presence fosters a sense of safety and preparedness. Striking the balance between the day job and volunteering as a CFR is challenging but many of our team report feeling fulfilled and valued by both the community and ambulance staff.
CFRs also support less urgent calls, offering comfort and basic care to patients who may be anxious or vulnerable. This not only improves patient experience but also helps manage ambulance service workloads more efficiently. Due to the nature of the roles the team fulfil on the railway, vulnerability is all around, and the skills acquired as part of the CFR training are used in abundance. Assistance is provided to vulnerable populations, including the elderly, homeless, and those with chronic health conditions who commute via Sheffield. The effectiveness of our CFRs depends on robust support from Yorkshire Ambulance Service with whom they have work collaboratively on training programmes and support.
In summary, our CFRs are a cornerstone of modern emergency care and community wellbeing. Their swift action, compassionate service, and dedication to outreach make them invaluable assets to both healthcare systems and members of the public. With 6 members of the team already trained and 6 more booked in for this year, the team in Sheffield are not just keeping the railway safe, they are helping to save lives. These colleagues are an inspiration.
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TfW's Trauma Training Team
Company Name
Transport for Wales
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The TfW Trauma Training Team is nominated for their exceptional commitment to safety, recognising that it's not just about physical protection, but also psychological well-being. The team has developed a groundbreaking, organisation-wide trauma awareness and support programme to address a critical gap in support for colleagues following traumatic incidents. By embedding a culture of empathy, preparedness, and psychological safety, this initiative protects the people who keep our railways running and sets a new industry benchmark for what safety truly means.
A Critical Gap in Safety
The project was born from deeply troubling feedback from frontline colleagues who had experienced traumatic events. It became clear that the support they received was inconsistent and, at times, lacked empathy, highlighting a critical gap in the organisation's approach. The team recognised that protecting our colleagues from the psychological impact of trauma is a fundamental component of their safety, and an urgent change was needed.
Our Solution: A Proactive Approach to Safety
The Trauma Training Team's solution is a comprehensive, scalable, and inclusive programme built on three key components to enhance safety for all:
• Mandatory Training for Managers: Leaders are being equipped with the tools to recognise trauma and provide appropriate, timely support, ensuring a consistent response across the organisation and reducing the risk of a colleague falling through the cracks.
• Awareness Sessions for All Colleagues: Accessible training sessions empower colleagues to recognise signs of trauma in themselves and others, creating a more vigilant and supportive community.
• A Practical Support Document: The accessible guide provides key contacts and support pathways, empowering every colleague to seek help when they need it.
Tangible Impact and Results
Even before its full rollout, the programme has demonstrated a powerful, real-world impact. A local café proprietor, who participated in a related training session, used his new skills to assist two individuals in distress. The project is creating a ripple effect of safety beyond the company, empowering not only TfW colleagues but also the wider community.
By embedding trauma awareness and support into daily practice, the team is ensuring that no one faces trauma alone. Their work is creating a culture where colleagues are equipped to respond with empathy and confidence, enhancing mental health outcomes and making the rail industry safer for everyone. The TfW Trauma Training Team truly leads by example, demonstrating a profound commitment to the safety and well-being of all.
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The Redcar Level Crossing Incident - Lessons Learnt Video
Company Name
Network Rail
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I am proud to nominate the team for their outstanding cross-industry safety learning initiative following a serious operational incident in May 2024. A train was authorised past a signal at danger while the Redcar level crossing remained open to road traffic, resulting in a collision with a car. Thankfully, only minor injuries were sustained, but the potential for a far more catastrophic outcome was clear. During the investigation, it became evident that this incident held powerful learning opportunities for the wider rail industry. One of our objectives within the North & East ORA team’s safety forum with Northern was to produce a joint lessons learnt video that could be shared industry-wide. Steph worked closely with Sam McCaffery (Senior Communications Manager), who engaged the national film team led by Alex Green, including Joseph Zafar, Amy Woodall, and Ellie Miller. Steph, Sam, Matt Foote, and Stephen Hargreaves (Northern) shaped the brief ensuring the key learning points were clear, impactful, and relevant. The film team then worked from this to brilliantly bring the story to life in a thrilling and visually engaging way. Northern also provided cab footage of the incident, which added authenticity and gravity to the final product. The group’s ability to collaborate across multiple teams and keep the project aligned with its safety objectives was exceptional. They ensured that the voices of those directly involved in the incident Signaller Lennon Tambula, Driver Andrew MacDonnell, and LOM Bronwyn Hodgson were respectfully and powerfully represented. Their courage in sharing their experiences was supported by Claire Hiley, Lennon’s mental health first aider, whose care was vital to his participation. The video delivers four key learning points: 1. Take your time when making safety-critical decisions—remember Take 5 and Stop, Think, Act. 2. Ensure clarity in safety-critical communications—be Accurate, Brief, Clear, and Professional. 3. Use all available tools—route cards, rule book knowledge, and local instructions. 4. Work together—safety is a shared responsibility across the railway. The team championed a peer-to-peer learning approach, ensuring the video featured frontline staff to make the content relatable and impactful. This decision has made the video a powerful tool for safety briefs and training sessions across the industry.
The video has been circulated with an overwhelmingly positive response with recipients grateful for the opportunity to learn and admiration for the courage of those involved to come forward and share their story. It will be included in the signallers development days nationally across Network Rail and driver training materials at Northern and other TOC and FOCs plus RSSB.
This project is a shining example of collaboration across: North & East ORA team; North & East Local Operations team; North & East Communications team; National Film team; and Northern. Their dedication, empathy, and professionalism ensured that this video not only educates but also honours the experiences of those involved. The group’s work has helped drive home the serious consequences of our actions at work and the importance of learning from incidents to prevent future harm.
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15
STATION STAFF TEAM OR PERSON AWARD
This award celebrates the outstanding contributions of station staff who provide exceptional customer service and ensure smooth station operations. Whether through safety, communication, problem-solving, or customer care, nominees in this category make a significant difference in passengers’ journeys. Judges will be looking for individuals or teams who go the extra mile to enhance the travel experience through professionalism, dedication, and teamwork.
Example job titles in this category:
Ticket office / Booking staff, Retail, Transport Police, Cleaners, Customer Service, Travel Centre Staff, Station Supervisor, Station Sales Assistant, Station Customer Service, Team Leader, Service Delivery Assistant, Sales Point Assistant, Station Manager, Revenue and Security...
You can see all the past winners here.
Andrew Hillier
Company Name
London Northwestern & West Midlands Railways
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Please tell us why you have nominated this individual
Since Andy joined the revenue protection department, we’ve witnessed nothing short of a transformation across our network. Through his sharp focus, relentless drive, and leadership, there has been a significant increase in performance from the team resulting to an impactful rise in Revenue each period, a clear message that fare evasion will not go unchecked.
Andy has been instrumental in turning valuable intel into real, measurable action. His implementation of targeted diagrams to tackle high ticketless areas has proven incredibly effective. Thanks to these initiatives, we’ve seen a notable decrease in short fare evasion from stations like Five Ways, University, Aston, and Duddeston, results that speak volumes.
But it’s not just the outcomes. Andy embodies the qualities that inspire teams to go further. His resilience in the face of challenges, his patient and proactive mindset, his natural motivation, and the fact that he is multi-skilled across every front. Whether he’s leading the Revenue Department not just on the ground with the team or driving strategy with the Digital Fraud Team, Andy leads with purpose and impact.
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Bournemouth Ticket Office Team:
Company Name
SWR
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I have worked within this team for approaching 20 years, part-time and full-time. Obviously, the members of this team have changed through that period. What hasn't changed though is the exemplary practice, towards customers and colleagues. When I first trained and joined this team, I was struck by the professionalism of the senior clerks and how their clarity and consistency in adherence to protocols, impartial retailing, customer service standards and support of colleagues set the ethos for new colleagues entering and became a working pattern as natural as breathing.
Time moves on, but that stong ethos - to do your job correctly, adhering to protocols, consistently to the highest possible standard, every day, is as strong as it was when I started. I can only nominate today's team but they are exceptionally competent and take pride in delivering a professional service to customers, upholding impartial retailing, giving excellent advice to customers, proactively, beyond the question asked (or indeed not even thought of yet!). The ticket office team is consistent to briefed protocols, actively aiming to never pass a problem on to another colleague, at station or on board. Every member of the team is proactive in sharing new knowledge and new information and their supportiveness of each other makes for a really effective working environment; good for us, but frankly good for the company too. Customers feedback satisfaction all the time to the team, verbally, and once in a while someone writes to a manager or the customer service centre and that positive feedback becomes 'real ' - quantifiable and measurable for statistical purposes. There is a wide breadth to "doing ones job"; this team go the top of that range and beyond every day, on good days and through disruption.
Ticket Office Bournemouth:
Jane Jerrard, Peter Squire, Raquel Meehan, Tim Fletcher, Jane Courtney and not forgetting our GPRs, Rebecca Stanley, Shannon Lewis, Kevin Blackman, Gareth Dark
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Carlisle's ARL Event Team
Company Name
Carlisle Support Services
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I am proud to nominate our Events Supervisor Team for the Team of the Year Award in recognition of their outstanding leadership, professionalism, and dedication during a series of high-profile events at Tottenham Stadium, including the Beyoncé and Chris Brown concert. They lead throughout the year all major events and football events with a strong Team of over 30 staff at White Hart Lane Overground Station. Chenelle Phillips, Aimee Yates, Daniel Ibe, Rhianna Harrison-Yates, Serena Levy and Hamza Abdirashid.
Faced with enormous crowds, tight schedules, and complex planning, this team rose to the challenge with unwavering focus and exceptional coordination. Their guidance and support ensured that every member of the wider events team operated smoothly and confidently, even under pressure.
Thanks to their leadership, thousands of passengers using White Hart Lane Station can travel home safely and without incident. Their ability to manage crowd flow, respond to challenges in real time, and maintain a calm, reassuring presence was nothing short of remarkable.
Flawless Operational Execution during multiple large-scale events
Strong Leadership and Team Coordination across all shifts
Zero Incidents or Accidents despite high footfall and complex crowd dynamics
Exemplary Representation of our values in action
This team didn’t just manage events—they led with excellence at White Hart Lane, ensuring safety, order, and a positive experience for all. Their performance has set a new standard for what great teamwork looks like in the rail industry.
They are, without a doubt, the best team for the job—and the best team of the year.
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Chris Blake and Adrian Worsfold
Company Name
Avanti West Coast and West Midlands trains
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Nomination for Station Staff of the Year – Adrian Worsfold (Avanti West Coast) & Chris Blake (West Midlands Trains)
We are proud to jointly nominate Adrian Worsfold of Avanti West Coast and Chris Blake of West Midlands Trains for the Station Staff of the Year award. As long-standing members of Team Euston, both Adrian and Chris have been integral to every success, improvement, and innovation at the station over recent months. Their unwavering passion, cross-industry leadership, and absolute commitment to delivering exceptional customer experience make them truly deserving of this recognition.
From the outset, Adrian and Chris have worked hand in hand to help shape Euston into what it is today — a station that is continually evolving to better meet the needs of its customers. Their care, drive, and collaborative spirit have made them both cornerstones of Team Euston. They don’t just talk about change — they lead it.
Adrian, stepping up from Customer Experience Manager to Interim Head of Stations for Avanti West Coast, has shown exceptional vision and agility in leadership. He is always thinking about how to improve the customer experience, and his strategic influence extends far beyond his job title. He brings people together across roles and organisations, constantly asking the right questions, championing innovation, and keeping the customer at the heart of every decision.
Chris, as Regional Station Manager for West Midlands Trains, plays an equally critical role. He brings professionalism, operational expertise, and a forward-thinking mindset to every situation. His presence on the ground and his leadership behind the scenes help drive consistent improvement. Chris's ability to collaborate, influence, and lead across boundaries is a major reason for the success we’ve achieved.
Together, Adrian and Chris form a leadership partnership that is both inspirational and effective. They are trusted voices across the industry — calm in a crisis, creative in planning, and relentless in their commitment to improvement. Their joint efforts have directly contributed to several recent achievements at Euston, from operational enhancements to customer service excellence.
What sets them apart is not just what they do, but how they do it. They lead with empathy, clarity, and humility, earning the respect of everyone they work with. Their thought for the customer is ever-present, whether it’s long-term strategy or day-to-day operations. They champion a cross-industry, one-team approach — breaking down barriers and ensuring that every improvement benefits everyone who uses the station.
Adrian and Chris are not only a credit to Avanti West Coast and West Midlands Trains — they are a credit to the entire rail industry. Their leadership continues to drive Euston forward, and I feel genuinely lucky to work besides two individuals who are such powerful forces for positive change in rail.
For their dedication, their leadership, and their passion, we are proud to nominate them as Station Staff of the Year.
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Clacton Ticket Office (Customer Service Team)
Company Name
Greater Anglia
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Led by their Supervisor, Caroline Wyss, the team at Clacton has evolved in the last year with some new faces, fresh ideas and a spruce up for the entrance and booking hall. Due to the high number of Passenger Assist bookings, we were successful in adding another post to the station, in the form of a welcome host to support the ticket office team. This position went to Monika Rendes who is top of the charts for passenger assist bookings for an individual user. Monika has been brilliant since joining & is always found on the station concourse ready to assist customers or just keeping the place tidy. Our other clerks, Alexia Denney, Arjun Babu & Rachel Harris have all played their part in the amazing passenger assist stats but also, a recent SQR station audit score of 100%, which for Clacton is impressive considering its issues with anti-social behaviour. The way this team treats & supports each other & our customers exemplifies our team code & they have been a credit to GA and a pleasure to manage this last year. It is very important to mention Mark Cornell, who is our Carlisle cleaner at Clacton & has been for many years. We consider him one of our own & he is as much a part of the team as everyone else. His efforts are appreciated by everyone at the station & he supports our team members in every way he can.
This team goes above & beyond for each other & our customers. We have received numerous amounts of praise for this team through our Contact Centre. They are all heavily invested in the Station & Greater Anglia which resulted in their recent 100% SQR station audit. The station team always decorates the booking hall during the festive period in December, which our customers love, some family's even having photos with their children next to the decorations. They also recently decorated the booking hall for the Clacton Air show which was nice.
Caroline Wyss, Alexia Denney, Arjun Babu, Monika Rendes & Rachel Harris - amazing team!!!
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Emma-Jane kennedy
Company Name
GWR
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In every workplace, there are individuals whose contributions extend far beyond their job description. Emma, in her role as Dispatch Supervisor at Weston-super-Mare, exemplifies this. She is not only responsible for the safe and efficient running of the station, but she also demonstrates an unwavering commitment to her colleagues, customers, and the wider rail network. Emma’s professionalism, kindness, and dedication make her an invaluable member of staff and a true inspiration.
Emma’s core responsibility lies in ensuring trains are dispatched safely and on time. She consistently manages this with precision and care, maintaining smooth daily operations at the station. In addition, she ensures all S&BB tasks are completed promptly, keeping the station compliant and on target. Her attention to detail and ability to balance multiple tasks reflect her strong organisational skills and commitment to operational excellence.
Emma’s impact goes far beyond her immediate role. She actively supports Gateline and ticket office staff, ensuring customer safety both within the station and during busy arrival and departure times. On several occasions, she has travelled to Exeter in her own free time to assist their team with S&BB tasks, demonstrating her loyalty to the wider network, not just her own station.
Emma’s efforts also enhance the customer experience. She has purchased flowers with her own money to make the station more welcoming and takes the lead in organising community-focused events such as the station carnival. Under her leadership, the carnival has run for two years without incident, showcasing her ability to deliver safe, enjoyable, and inclusive events while maintaining punctual train services.
Emma is both a qualified first aider and mental health first aider, roles she treats as vocations rather than obligations. She regularly provides health and wellbeing advice to colleagues, offering comfort during difficult times and stepping in to cover additional duties when sickness absences arise. Her organisation of the annual Mental Health First Aid Awareness Week highlights her proactive approach to wellbeing, ensuring colleagues feel supported and valued.
Despite the challenges presented by anti-social behaviour at Weston-super-Mare, Emma remains a source of strength and reassurance for her colleagues. She offers guidance, protection, and moral support, even when she is off duty. This level of commitment speaks volumes about her character and leadership.
Emma leads by example. She is tireless in her work ethic, often described by colleagues and customers alike as someone who “cannot be still.” Her energy and drive motivate those around her, fostering a culture of professionalism, care, and teamwork. She demonstrates that true leadership is not about authority but about service, compassion, and dedication to others.
Emma embodies the qualities of an outstanding Dispatch Supervisor. Through her operational excellence, support for colleagues and customers, commitment to wellbeing, and leadership she has made a lasting impact on her station, her colleagues, and the wider rail network. Her selfless contributions create a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for everyone.
Emma is far more than a member of staff she is the heart of her station.
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Fare Dodgers: At War With The Law - South Western Railway
Company Name
South Western Railway
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The South Western Railway (SWR) Revenue Protection Team has long been a pillar of integrity, professionalism, and resilience on the rail network—but in the past year, their dedication has stepped firmly into the spotlight with the widely viewed and critically praised series Fare Dodgers at War with the Law.
This documentary-style series didn’t just entertain; it showcased the human face of revenue protection. The team was portrayed not as enforcers, but as committed railway professionals who believe passionately in fairness, customer safety, and preserving the value of the rail network for everyone. From difficult conversations on platforms to calmly handling confrontations, the team’s empathy, diligence, and respect for the rules shone through every episode.
The impact of the series has been profound. Public perception of revenue protection staff has shifted positively, with many viewers expressing newfound understanding and appreciation for the complex and often thankless role they play. The team has managed to blend enforcement with education—ensuring fare evasion is tackled without losing the human touch. The documentary even inspired several individuals to become the next generation of Revenue Protection colleagues working at London Waterloo.
Behind the cameras, the team’s performance has been equally impressive. Over the past year, they have delivered significant reductions in fare evasion across key routes through targeted operations, intelligence-led patrols, and strong partnerships with British Transport Police and other departments. Their results are tangible: more revenue reclaimed, improved deterrents, and a safer, more honest rail environment for passengers.
By inviting transparency and public scrutiny through Fare Dodgers at War with the Law, SWR’s Revenue Protection Team has raised the bar for the entire industry. They’ve proven that robust enforcement can go hand-in-hand with empathy, professionalism, and public engagement.
They are not just protecting revenue—they’re protecting the trust between railway services and the people they serve.
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Gemma McEvoy, Station Assistant, Hamilton Square
Company Name
Merseyrail
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From the moment Gemma joined the company, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional customer service skills. Her natural ability to connect with passengers and colleagues alike has made an immediate and lasting impact. She brings a proactive, can-do attitude to every shift and is someone who thrives working independently. Her reliability and professionalism mean she requires no supervision, yet she consistently sets the standard for others to follow. Gemma leads by example, showing initiative, empathy, and dedication in everything she does. As a team player, Gemma has seamlessly integrated into the station environment. Her positive energy, approachability, and genuine care for others have made her a beloved member of the team. She gets along effortlessly with everyone and is especially brilliant with customers, always going the extra mile to ensure their experience is smooth and enjoyable. Gemma is already a valued asset to her station—respected by her peers, appreciated by passengers, and trusted by leadership. We’re lucky to have her, and we’re excited to see the continued impact she’ll make across the network.
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Glasgow Central Station
Company Name
Network Rail
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The team have been active supporters and advocates of Pride for many years, always striving to learn more, provide a safe place for passengers - visibly with lanyards/pins, verbally with their support for passengers in the station and practically for their recent advocacy (in infancy) to introduce a gender neutral toilet.
Our multi faith room has recently been upgraded to ensure easier access for the communities who require it - demonstrating their commitment to continuously improve in this space.
Work has been ongoing with White Ribbon for many years, having recently been part of an award (as part of Scotland's Railway) to recognise their advocacy in this area. Working with RDG to showcase the VR headsets is a continuation of this.
The station tour and museum is reviewed to ensure equality shines through in the history - with work ongoing with Inspire to create a women's history section.
The SSM who was acting Station Manager has agreed to support on Career Ready for next year, our social mobility partnership where students have a mentor and are placed with an organisation for 4 weeks. The station host the students for a day each year, but to host a student for the time frame is a great step in demonstrating the variety of work taking place in our railway to those who might not access it.
The passenger assist team are brilliant, with a great level of support and professionalism (as are Edinburgh) and their ways of working should be echoed around other managed stations.
National Inclusion Week 2025: Glasgow Central proudly hosted the Inclusion Marketplace during NIW25, welcoming local charities and community organisations to connect with railway colleagues and the public. The team also supported donation drives for Glasgow Women’s Aid. Their efforts were part of a broader campaign themed #NowIsTheTime, which called for action, not just awareness.
Glasgow Central Station is a living example of how operational excellence and inclusive values can work hand in hand. Their contributions during National Inclusion Week 2025, alongside their year-round advocacy, demonstrate that inclusion isn’t an initiative—it’s a culture. They are the cogs working together to make equity visible, actionable, and enduring.
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Keeley Rees and Shola Ola
Company Name
Carlisle Support Services
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Keeley and Shola our Revenue Security Officers have demonstrated exceptional vigilance, leadership and teamwork in tackling persistent fare evasion. Over an extended period, they identified and monitored a regular fare evader who repeatedly forced entry through the gates with a bicycle, carefully gathering evidence and coordinating efforts with colleagues and other stations.
On one occasion, after receiving a tip-off from another station, Keeley and Shola took the lead in coordinating a well-planned, multi-agency response. They ensured staff were positioned at key areas, monitored live CCTV, and liaised closely with British Transport Police to intercept the individual safely and effectively.
When the fare evader attempted to slip through the gate again, Keeley and Shola acted quickly — challenging the individual, preventing an escape, and securing the necessary details. They also ensured an Irregularity Report was raised with extensive evidence to support further action.
Their leadership resulted in a successful intervention after months of monitoring and has directly influenced a positive change in the individual’s behaviour, who is now tapping in and out correctly.
Keeley and Shola’s persistence, professionalism and coordination exemplify the highest standards of customer service and network security. Their actions showcase how dedication and teamwork can make a real difference, making them highly deserving of a staff award.
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Lockerbie station staff
Company Name
ScotRail
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The team at Lockerbie are fantastic. Although Lockerbie is a Scotrail operated station it is not served by Scotrail Trains, as it is situated on the WCML north of Carlisle and is served by Transpenine and Avanti services. The staff at Lockerbie always go the extra mile with their customer service and are a credit to Scotrail for flying the flag for Scotrail Trains. They are a happy team and this is reflected in the number of thank you letters and small gifts they receive from the customers who use the station. They all work solo even in winter when there's snow clearing and salting needing done. They have a brilliant rapport with both Transpenine and Avanti train crew to ensure the smooth running of services at the station even in difficult circumstances such as cancelled trains or breakdowns. They are always on the ball and get the customers moving as quickly as possible with road transport.
The 3 permanent staff base at Lockerbie are Teresa, Pamela and Samantha, they are supported by the Dumfries GPR Doug who covers their holidays and lieu days. They are a very close knit team and are well deserving of some recognition.
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Paddington Station Team
Company Name
GTS
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I am delighted to be advised that the exceptional team at Paddington Elizabeth line flagship station have been put forward for Team of the Year award. Over the past year, this team has consistently demonstrated excellence across every aspect of station operations, setting a benchmark for performance, collaboration, and customer service.
From the moment passengers arrive, the team’s commitment to creating a welcoming, safe, and efficient environment is evident. Their proactive approach to customer care, combined with a deep understanding of passenger needs, has resulted in consistently positive feedback in satisfaction scores.
Operationally, the team has excelled in maintaining high standards of punctuality, cleanliness, and safety. Their ability to respond swiftly and effectively to incidents and service disruptions reflects a culture of preparedness and professionalism. They have also embraced innovation, implementing new ideas to improve accessibility and streamline station processes.
Across all roles and shifts, they support one another, celebrate successes, and face challenges together.
Their efforts have strengthened relationships with stakeholders and enhanced the station’s reputation as a vital part of the Paddington footprint.
In every respect, performance, service, teamwork, the Paddington team exemplifies what it means to be outstanding. I wholeheartedly recommend them for this award and believe they are truly deserving of the recognition.
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Radoslav Kosturkov
Company Name
Thameslink
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I am delighted to nominate Rado for the Station Staff Team or Person Award. Rado stands out every day for the exceptional way he looks after passengers and colleagues. His dedication to customer service is second to none, and he has an incredible ability to turn what could be a stressful or confusing situation into a positive experience.
Rado always takes the time to listen to passengers’ concerns, explain things clearly, and find solutions quickly. Nothing is ever too much trouble for him, whether it’s helping someone with accessibility needs, giving reassurance during delays, or simply offering a friendly smile that makes a journey feel more pleasant.
What makes Rado so deserving of recognition is his consistency. He doesn’t just step up when things are difficult — he shows the same level of care and professionalism in every interaction. His reliability, kindness, and proactive approach make him a true asset to the team and a real credit to the station.
Passengers frequently comment on how much they appreciate his help, and it’s clear that he has a lasting impact on the journeys and experiences of so many people. For his dedication, positivity, and tireless commitment to excellent service, I believe Rado is truly worthy of this award.
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Susan Temple & Janice Povah
Company Name
ScotRail
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I would like to nominate Susan Temple & Janice Povah of Johnstone Train Station for their unfaltering dedication to the exemplary customer service shown & care and attention provided for my elderly mum.
Mum uses the station at least twice weekly and through sharp observation of their customers, Susan, along with Janice, noticed a decline in my mums mental health.
To ensure mums safety, they ensure she waits on the correct platform, often escorting her over the bridge and often keeping an eye on the cameras to ensure she embarks the correct train when travelling to my house in Troon.
Susan, going completely above and beyond, reached out to myself to ensure I was aware of the confusion mum was starting to exhibit more and more.
Over the last 9 months, Susan has been invaluable to our family. Knowing that people are watching over mum and she is safe when at the station and subsequently travelling on the trains, has given us a huge sense of relief to know she is not alone.
Susan provided further assistance by highlighting mums vulnerability to the British Transport Police who, thanks to Susan’s intervention, made contact with us to reassure us they were aware of mum.
As if all of the above wasn’t enough, Susan has demonstrated excellent levels of service and care as she regularly calls me when mum presents at the station to ensure she should be travelling to Troon and I am expecting her. On the several occasions mums dementia has caused her to become confused and bewildered, Susan has selflessly escorted her the short distance home (mums home backs onto the station) ensuring she’s settled safely in her home and follows that up with a call to myself.
I really don’t know what we would do without Susan! Dementia is a terrible disease and robs sufferers of their independence and confidence. With Susan and Janice providing the level of customer service they do, they are hugely helping my mum to keep that independence by keeping a watchful and supportive eye on her.
They are both an asset to Johnstone Train Station and the rail service as a whole and I would like to see them receive some reward and recognition for all they do.
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Waheed Khan
Company Name
Amulet Security / Northern Trains
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Bradford based TSO Waheed Khan has been a mainstay on the Northern TSO operation for a number of years.
An individual who takes immense pride in his work and built up a strong relationship with colleagues and stakeholders across the railway network, Waheed consistently goes above and beyond to help his team achieve exceptional results.
This everyday Excellence has been consistently demonstrated but non more so than over the last 12 months where Waheed has consistently come forward to support the operation and take on additional responsibilities to benefit others.
Waheed is a popular individual across the region and has forged a number of long lasting relationships over the years of him operating on the network and maintaining safety and security.
Waheed goes about his work with the same positive outlook on a daily basis and has demonstrated this 'Everyday Excellence' not just during crucial times for the operation but over a number of years where his performance and results has drew widespread recognition from his leader, colleagues and our partners.
Waheed is consistently one of the highest performaning officers on the Northern Trains operation and quietly goes about his business with minimal fuss but maximum committment, Waheed is and has always been an integral part of all we do daily.
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15
SUSTAINABILITY CHAMPION OF THE YEAR AWARD
This award honours an individual or team that has made an outstanding contribution to environmental sustainability within the rail industry. Recognising leadership and innovation, it celebrates those driving eco-friendly practices, reducing carbon footprints, and implementing sustainable solutions. Judges will be looking for initiatives that promote energy efficiency, waste reduction, renewable energy adoption, or advancements in green technologies that contribute to a more sustainable railway.
Example job titles for this category:
Corporate Strategy, Environment, Regional Community and Sustainability Manager...
You can see all the past winners here.
Advanced Hydrogen Technology (AHT), K2C Rail, RSK-1stinrail, DB-ESG, HNRC-Swietelsky
Company Name
Advanced Hydrogen Technology (AHT), K2C Rail, RSK-1stinrail, DB-ESG, HNRC-Swietelsky
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<p> Innovation Cutting Scope 1 Emissions While Delivering a Better-Than-Cost-Neutral Return Advanced Hydrogen Technology, in partnership with K2C Rail, RSK-1stinrail, DB-ESG, and HNRC-Swietelsky, has led a breakthrough sustainability initiative targeting one of the rail industry's toughest challenges: reducing Scope 1 emissions from internal combustion engines across locomotives, tampers, road-rail, and road fleet vehicles. At the heart of this initiative is the Engine Carbon Clean (ECC) system, a hydrogen-powered, mobile cleaning solution that removes harmful carbon build-up in engines. The process, which takes 45-mins, requires no dismantling of engine parts and avoids any use of chemicals, ensuring both operational efficiency and environmental safety. Measurable Impact The ECC technology has undergone extensive real-world deployment and independent testing: • HNRC Swietelsky fitted the R4-hydrogen generator to a Class 08 locomotive, tested by ATMO at BCIMO. Over 12 months, it delivered a 30%+ reduction in CO, and a 30% improvement in fuel efficiency at idle, with uninterrupted operation across 15 months. This pioneering work was featured on BBC Documentary Click's "Arctic Series". • RSK-1stinrail integrated ECC into their road fleet, supporting TfL operations, cutting CO, emissions by 33%, equivalent to 6.1 tonnes saved annually per vehicle, while maintaining cost neutrality and reducing engine maintenance needs. • A current 8-week trial with a major UK tier 1, started in August, has already achieved 13% CO, and fuel reductions after just three cleans on their tamper • DB ESG has partnered with 2 Major UK Train Operators/Providers to validate ECC across mainline units, including Class 150s, with ongoing independent testing at MIRA. • The technology has now been validated through three independent testing bodies, Millbrook, BCIMO, and MIRA, confirming significant reductions in CO,, CO, NOx, NO, THC, and Particulate Matter, while improving engine performance. Importantly, ECC-treated vehicles have shown improved reliability and reduced maintenance demands when compared to untreated sister units, proving the technology's broader operational value. When fitted with the optional carbon capture device, ECC doesn't just reduce emissions, it actively captures carbon particulates. This opens opportunities for a circular economy approach, where captured carbon can be reused in the production of fertilisers, plastics, and even synthetic fuels, extending sustainability benefits beyond rail and into wider industry To put the impact in perspective: for just RSK and a UK Tier 1 we are working with, having adopted ECC and achieved a conservative 20% reduction in diesel use, they will cut nearly 39,000 tonnes of CO, annually, equivalent to planting over 1.7m trees every year. Strategic Sustainability Vision Through our engagement with the rail supply chain, we recognise that internal combustion engines are likely to remain in service until at least 2055, even as the industry transitions to hydrogen and electrification. With AHT's ECC system, we offer a practical solution to make these engines as clean as possible now. As perfectly summarised on the BBC,
"the ultimate aim is to remove carbon emissions from our railway altogether, but while technology catches up, using AHT-ECC, powered by the most abundant element on Earth, might just
be making the air we breathe cleaner
https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0...
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Darren Charnock
Company Name
Merseyrail
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Darren Charnock, Station Retailer, Maghull North
Darren has the green fingers of the station brings his own freshly grown veggies in for staff to help themselves Also brings in tomato, pepper, cucumber, and pumpkin plants for you to grow at home. We also plant fresh herbs at the station an bring back the plant pots to use again. He makes us all aware to turn lights off a re-cycle what we can at the station. He helps the volunteers and has brought flower seeds in for them to use in the space around the station. He also brings in his home grown produce, jars of chutney etc for the staff up and down the line. Thoroughly lovely man and proud to have him on our team
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Euston MRF team
Company Name
Mitie waste & Environmental Services
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I am proud to nominate the Euston Mini Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) Team for their exceptional contribution to environmental sustainability within the rail industry. Through strong leadership, innovation, and a clear commitment to eco-friendly practices, this team has set a new benchmark for sustainable waste management across the Network Rail estate.
At the outset, Euston Station faced significant sustainability challenges:
• A total waste output of 138 tonnes monthly
• A recycling rate of just 10%
• Waste management costs exceeding £310,000 per year
In response, the Euston MRF team led the implementation of a Mini MRF solution, a modular, scalable facility designed to dramatically improve the visibility, efficiency, and sustainability of waste processing on-site.
The results speak for themselves:
• 40% reduction in total waste tonnage (down to 85 tonnes)
• 50% reduction in waste management costs
• Recycling and reuse rate increased to an impressive 88%
• 70% reduction in carbon emissions through decreased transport requirements
• Effective capture and safe handling of liquid and hazardous waste contamination
This initiative didn't just deliver data-driven outcomes, it transformed the culture around waste at Euston. The MRF increased awareness, education, and accountability, ensuring producers are properly billed and staff are more engaged with sustainability practices.
The visible success of the Euston Mini MRF has had ripple effects far beyond the station. The model's scalability and impact have led to a landmark moment: the Network Rail CEO has mandated that the Mini MRF be rolled out to all Network Rail sites nationwide, recognising its transformative potential for the entire rail network.
By combining operational excellence with environmental leadership, the Euston MRF team has demonstrated exactly the kind of innovation and commitment that this award seeks to recognise. Their work is not just a local success, it's a blueprint for a greener, more sustainable railway system across the UK.
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Evguenia Rode
Company Name
Alstom
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Evguenia RODE exemplifies the spirit of environmental leadership and innovation that the RailStaff Awards seek to honour. As Engineering Domain Leader within Alstom UK&I, Evguenia has consistently driven forward sustainability in rail through her technical expertise, strategic foresight, and unwavering commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Her work has been instrumental in embedding sustainability into engineering processes across multiple rolling stock platforms, including AVENTRA and INNOVIA 300. Evguenia has led the integration of EcoDesign principles into product and subsystem requirement documents, ensuring that environmental considerations are not an afterthought but a foundational element of design. Evguenia’s contributions include:
• Energy Efficiency & Carbon Reduction: She has championed the transition to low-carbon technologies, including the substitution of hazardous materials and the adoption of polymer marking for recyclability. Her oversight ensures that every engineering decision supports Alstom’s carbon reduction goals.
• Waste Reduction & Circular Economy: Through her review of supplier material declarations and controlled substance compliance, Evguenia has promoted reuse and remanufacture strategies that align with circular economy principles.
• Green Technology Advancement: Her leadership in fire safety and human factors ensures that sustainability is balanced with safety and usability, contributing to the development of greener, safer rail solutions.
• Strategic Impact: Evguenia’s work supports Alstom’s Engineering PMC objectives, including Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS), Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI), reinforcing her holistic approach to sustainability.
Evguenia is not only a technical expert but a strategic influencer who inspires teams to think sustainably. Her work has helped position Alstom as a leader in environmental stewardship within the rail industry, making her a deserving nominee for the Sustainability Person of the Year Award.
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Greg Mckenzie
Company Name
AW Rail Services Limited
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Over the past three years, Greg has been the driving force behind our sustainability and social value strategy, leading with vision, commitment, and a genuine passion for making a positive difference. Under his guidance, our organisation has moved beyond simply reducing waste on construction sites, developing a pioneering approach to reuse and upcycling that is now recognised as industry leading. Greg has ensured that sustainability is not a bolt-on to our operations but a central part of our culture, embedded into every project and decision.
One of Greg’s earliest achievements was tackling waste reduction head-on, particularly the number of skips used both on-site and at our yard. By challenging the assumption that materials at the end of their first life are simply “waste,” he has created a system where these resources are identified, separated, and repurposed. The result has been a significant reduction in landfill contributions and a demonstrable increase in the value returned to society. Instead of filling skips, construction materials are now diverted into over 50 different types of organisations – from schools and colleges to charities, urban farms, and community gardens. This not only benefits the environment but directly strengthens the communities in which we work.
The reuse and upcycling programme Greg has developed is both comprehensive and innovative. Timber, which once would have been discarded, is now supporting youth work, rehabilitation projects, ex-offenders, and educational facilities. Colleges have been able to use our timber donations in carpentry and bricklaying courses, while local community gardens use offcuts to build raised beds and structures. This initiative has proven that even the simplest material, when redirected, can create wide-reaching social value.
Similarly, bricks and masonry have been supplied to schools, men’s sheds, heritage centres, and wildlife trusts, where they have been reused for training, restoration, and construction projects. Corrugated plastic tubing has found a second life in nurseries, pre-schools, and allotments, while paint has been redistributed to charities, SEN facilities, forest schools, theatres, and drop-in centres. Electrical and plumbing components, once seen as surplus, are now helping colleges, charities, and even wildlife centres. From scrap metal donated to railway heritage groups, to used tonne bags repurposed by allotments, Greg’s leadership has created a ripple effect of positive impact that extends far beyond our immediate industry.
By actively engaging with local stakeholders, Greg has also ensured that our efforts are not top-down, but collaborative. It was through listening to the needs of community groups that we discovered just how valuable our “waste” could be in their hands. These conversations unlocked opportunities we might never have considered otherwise. As Greg often highlights, sustainability is not just about environmental responsibility – it’s about seeing value where others don’t and creating meaningful partnerships.
In addition to environmental gains, Greg’s programme has created long-lasting social value. Local charities, schools, and community organisations now rely on the materials we provide, reducing their own costs while enabling them to deliver more to the people they support. This is not just reuse; it is regeneration – of
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John Harvey
Company Name
Merseyrail
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John Harvey, Station Retailer, Aughton Park
John cares about the environment and wildlife around the station. He has spent his own money, and time improving the station. He has bought several different bird feeders, he has hung them predominantly out of the back window, opens the blinds and the customers can now see all the birds whilst being served. This has created a lot of conversations whilst buying the daily ticket. This was not the reason he did it, he cares about the wildlife and has created a lovely space behind the ticket office where the birds are in a safe space. He has also bought a squirrel box which he has put up near the trees at the front of the station. All the boxes he fills and pays for himself with different seeds for the different birds and nuts for the squirrels. He has cleared space for the staff to sit on their breaks so they can immerse themselves in the wildlife. He also ensures nothing is wasted and ensures everyone contributes to compost. He takes home banana skins, peelings etc that he asks the staff to save to help build a good compost.
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Laura Webb
Company Name
Network Rail
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Laura has single handedly been managing our Ecology Compensation Sites which were handed over to NR as part of the EWR project. They were previously managed by a team of 10 in Atkins. She has worked closely with C&P, Bletchley DU and numerous others to ensure we have let the necessary contracts to enable work to be completed on the sites. There was no framework in place for this and NR did not have any processes in place for capturing work (not available in Ellipse) or recording inspections. Laura has managed all this on her own to help ensure we stay on course to achieve our 30 year net gain targets for these 20 sites.
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Patrick Power
Company Name
Network Rail
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I would like to nominate Patrick Power, Head of Stations & Passenger Experience at Network Rail (Birmingham), for the Sustainability Champion of the Year Award. Patrick has demonstrated unwavering dedication to advancing sustainability not just at New Street Station that Patrick manages, but has also led and supported initiatives that have set a new bar in the rail industry, with a particular focus on transforming Birmingham New Street Station into a model of new sustainable achievements and best practices. His visionary leadership has driven substantial positive change, not only in the station’s infrastructure but also in fostering a culture of sustainability among staff and passengers alike.
Patrick’s commitment to environmental responsibility is evident through his collaboration with Q Sustain in particular on several innovative projects at Birmingham New Street. These ;
• the Pluvo filtration units: supported and helped the install of first of its kind, industry leading air filtration units to improve air quality at the station using innovative filtration and ionisation technology.
• Lighting Retrofit: supported a first of its kind halogen to LED retrofit of 891 lights that saved 163 Tons of embodied CO2
• PEPA filters: install of Pathogen Eliminating Filters in the ventilation system to destroy COVID bacteria in waiting areas.
• Solar Film trial: exploration of solar thin film feasibility for the station’s façade.
Each of these initiatives reflects Patrick’s forward-thinking approach and deep understanding of the role that infrastructure plays in reducing environmental impact and whole life carbon, and mitigating climate change.
Under his leadership, the lighting retrofit project at Birmingham New Street has delivered substantial energy savings while significantly reducing the station's carbon footprint. Patrick helped facilitate a lighting upgrade scheme that not only improved energy efficiency but also enhanced the passenger experience by providing a safer, more inviting environment. His keen attention to detail ensures that sustainability goes hand-in-hand with improving the day-to-day operations of the station, reflecting his holistic view of corporate responsibility.
Additionally, Patrick has championed the installation of green walls at the station, an initiative that exemplifies his understanding of the importance of biodiversity and urban greening. These living walls not only contribute to carbon sequestration but also improve air quality and provide aesthetic value, transforming the station into a more vibrant and ecologically conscious space. This project highlights his ability to incorporate sustainable practices into the built environment in a way that is both functional and visually appealing.
Patrick Power’s dedication to sustainability, corporate responsibility, and net-zero impact is nothing short of exceptional. He is a leader who consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that environmental considerations are integrated into every facet of his work. His achievements at Birmingham New Street Station stand as a testament to his commitment to driving positive change in the realm of sustainability, and his efforts will undoubtedly inspire future generations of rail professionals to continue the work toward a more sustainable and resilient future.
His exceptional leadership, innovative thinking, and unwavering commitment to sustainability make him a truly deserving candidate
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Phil Hibberd
Company Name
Transport UK Group
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In his role of Group Head of Safety, Security & Sustainability, Phil has shown outstanding leadership in embedding sustainability at the core of one of the UK's largest transport groups, delivering a significant and lasting positive impact across the rail sector.
In 2025, Phil’s primary accomplishment was leading the creation and roll-out of the new Transport UK Sustainability Strategy. This comprehensive framework sets ambitious commitments spanning eleven strategic areas and has become a benchmark for best practice in the industry. The strategy unifies emissions reduction, social sustainability, and environmental protection into a single, actionable roadmap. Crucially, it has shifted sustainability from being considered optional to being an operational imperative. Under Phil’s guidance, Transport UK now operates with a coherent, group-wide strategy that aligns with government targets and offers a clear pathway towards net zero public transport by 2050.
Phil has driven sustainability initiatives across all of Transport UK’s operating companies, including Merseyrail, Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway, West Midlands, and Transport UK London Bus, ensuring each contributes to the overall vision. Notable achievements include:
• Fleet Modernisation and Decarbonisation: Merseyrail became the UK’s first operator to launch battery-powered passenger trains, achieving an 80% reduction in energy consumption. Over 1,500 new rail vehicles have been introduced across the group, improving efficiency, cutting emissions, and enhancing passenger experiences.
• Emissions and Renewable Energy: At East Midlands Railway, Phil championed the installation of 2,446 solar panels at depots, generating clean energy and cutting annual CO2 emissions by 156 tonnes. Energy efficiency initiatives have been implemented at the group’s 465 stations, with ISO 50001 accreditation supporting these efforts.
• Waste Reduction and Circular Economy: Greater Anglia recycled 87% of its waste in 2025, setting an industry standard. Group-wide, waste-to-resource programmes are minimising landfill and fostering a circular economy.
• Climate Resilience and Biodiversity: In partnership with the Wildlife Trusts and local communities, biodiversity programmes have been expanded at 33 stations to protect habitats and species. Climate adaptation planning has also been introduced, boosting resilience against extreme weather and reducing operational risk.
• Social Sustainability: Through the Rail Social Value Tool, Phil enabled Transport UK to quantify and evidence its broader social impact, valued at £354 million in 2024/25. This includes apprenticeships, community engagement, and economic support, demonstrating that sustainability benefits people as well as the environment.
Phil’s leadership has made Transport UK a sector role model, with sustainability now central to decision-making and operations. His influence reaches beyond the company through his work on industry advisory bodies like the RSSB and the Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety, promoting sustainable practices as key to safety and resilience.
In 2025, Phil Hibberd has delivered measurable outcomes: cleaner air, reduced emissions, greater efficiency, higher recycling rates, enhanced biodiversity, and stronger social value. His vision and drive have ensured Transport UK is meeting the challenges of today while preparing for a sustainable future. These achievements make him a deserving recipient of the Sustainability Champion of the Year Award 2025.
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Quattro Sustainability team
Company Name
Quattro Plant
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For many, the immediate solution to a sustainable future in rail has been to buy new vehicles, replace fleets, and discard the old. But Quattro’s investigation found that manufacturing fresh equipment carries a heavy environmental cost, generating unnecessary waste and disposal emissions. The challenge for Quattro was to think beyond the obvious, finding smarter, greener solutions that could transform the company’s sustainability agenda without further damaging the planet. To tackle this, Quattro developed a two-pronged ‘inside out’ solution.
Firstly, Quattro’s R&D Team in Liverton - our 'greengineers', are rewriting the rules of rail sustainability. They have developed three fully electric rail machines: a Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP), a rail sweeper, and a rail gator. Each began life as a conventional diesel unit and was re-engineered from the inside out into a zero-emission, high-performance alternative. These machines show how existing assets can be transformed into longer-life, greener solutions.
The team also upcycled a road MEWP into a fully electric unit. This project won the 2025 Niche Vehicle Network’s Nick Carpenter Award for Innovation, underscoring Quattro’s ability to combine radical engineering with practical results. The entire pioneering electric programme was the subject of a recent in-depth 30 minute documentary for Sky, which highlighted the work of the team in Liverton and how they're setting new standards in sustainable rail engineering.
Secondly, whilst working on transforming the fleet to alternative power (and the infrastructure to support it), Quattro took intermediate steps to significantly reduce emissions, with a programme of Circular Fleet Management via four upgrade centres.
Quattro has invested in four engineering centres of excellence in Pontypool, Lichfield, Kent, and Glasgow. Managed by the Upgrade Team, these centres have transformed fleet management into a circular process. Every RRV and attachment is tracked and, on a seven-year cycle, brought in for complete reconditioning.
Machines are stripped down and rebuilt with reconditioned engines, transmissions, hydraulics, electrics, and safety systems. Locally sourced parts reduce supply chain emissions. The result is an upcycled, modernised machine that meets today’s performance and environmental standards.
Sustainability Impact:
Carbon Reduction: Extending asset life and electrifying equipment cuts emissions.
Waste Reduction: Systematic upcycling prevents premature disposal of hundreds of machines and attachments.
Energy Efficiency: Modernised and electric-powered machines lower fuel use and operating costs.
Industry Leadership: The Quattro team demonstrates how sustainability at scale can be achieved through circular thinking and innovation.
The Quattro sustainability team is redefining environmental standards in rail. The in-house upgrade programme champions circular economy principles, while the R&D Team in Liverton leads the way in pioneering electric machines. By proving that upcycling is more effective than buying new, our Quattro teams are delivering a safer, more efficient, and environmentally responsible railway.
The Quattro journey began by looking inward at what was already available and focusing on transformation rather than replacement, and this approach caught the attention of the mainstream media. The pioneering work of our 'greengineers' shows that true sustainability begins not with what we discard, but with how we choose to transform.
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Riona Ainge
Company Name
SYSTRA Ltd
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I believe Riona is worthy of winning the Sustainability Champion of the Year award because of her commitment to the railway industry and going above and beyond. In less than 5 years she has worked hard to reach a senior position as Sustainability Lead for SYSTRA Ltd. She has reached this position by being proactive and diligent, but also by giving back to the railway industry.
Riona is responsible for reducing the company’s carbon and greenhouse gas emissions, whilst also delivering our commitments to the 3 pillars (People, Planet, Purpose). As part of this role, she has completed the carbon reporting for the company, developed tools for improving our social responsibility, created a Travel with Purpose campaign, reinvented our Sustainability Mission and rewritten the Sustainability Policy and Procedure. Riona has also developed the Sustainability Design and Construction Framework (SDCF) for SYSTRA, a framework that measures sustainability across all applicable projects, through resource efficiency, nature preservation, carbon capturing and quality of life. As part of her role, she leads a ‘Carbon Task Force’, a team of individuals that will support delivery of the actions she has devised in the Carbon Reduction Plan (i.e. Electric vehicle hire, sustainable commute options, renewable energy tariffs) and secure PAS2080 Certification for the business.
Riona is always giving back to the railway industry and supporting the next generation. She has presented at conferences for more than 250 people and taught in schools as a STEM ambassador. In 2024, she was a Women in Construction and Engineering (WICE) finalist for representing environment in the Next Generation Leadership Team at SYSTRA, achieving her Chartership with IEMA and joining the sustainability committee. In 2023, Riona was a finalist in the SPARK challenge, an innovative programme run by SYSTRA. Riona helped lead a UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) tool that will be disseminated across the business. It uses level 1 and 2 trade-offs and synergies to determine which UN SDGs are most applicable to a company.
Her drive for research and innovation offers a unique perspective in the rail industry. By being visible across SYSTRA and Balfour Beatty Vinci SYSTRA Joint Venture for exploring opportunities and being adaptable to change, she hope this encourages other young people, particularly women in the construction industry, to follow their passions and unlock their potential.
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Samantha Schofield
Company Name
Amey
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Outstanding Contribution to Sustainability
Samantha has curated an impressive track record of outstanding contribution over her 20+ year career. She has grown from Environmental Coordinator to Head of Environment & Sustainability, working her way up to senior leadership roles by her early 20s. She continues to break down barriers within a predominantly male industry by being a visionary leader in business and across the sustainability sector. In her multi-disciplinary leadership roles that she has had over the course of her career, Samantha has led others to success.
With a commitment to mentoring, Samantha was a key figure in the development of a new graduate programme for environmental and sustainability professionals to take their career progressions further. The programme, in line with the Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals (ISEP), provides a solid support structure under the guidance of experienced leaders. Through this initiative, Samantha has actively encouraged a more balanced and inclusive team, growing from a team of 3 to a team of 20 in the last 24 months, making her a driving force in educating and championing a sustainability-first mindset in current and future leaders. The Environmental and Sustainability graduates have all achieved Practitioner membership with ISEP within 18 months of starting the graduate programme and have moved into Environmental Advisor roles within Amey.
Leadership and Innovation
Ultimately, Samantha takes great pride in building and mentoring future engineers and environmental experts. She seeks out the potential in those who may not typically have a voice and provides them with a platform to shine.
Through her programmes, Samantha continues to inspire the next generation of professionals to take on challenges to help their career development and growth and encourages individuals to share their learnings far and wide, providing a platform for conversation with senior leaders. This has provided senior leaders with an insight into what a sustainable future in rail really looks like and what considerations need to be made.
Working with the ISEP, she has created an Environmental IMPACT Leadership programme that was launched in 2024. Alongside the ISEP approved trainer, Samantha has personally delivered the programme to over 347 leaders to date. With Samantha’s leadership, the programme is helping develop leaders to take ownership in protecting and enhancing the environment. Samantha has provided a platform for collaborating for positive change to achieve Amey’s sustainability goals and has transformed ambitions into real actions.
Sustainability Initiatives
Using her expertise and extensive skill set, Samantha guided and supported her teams to gain Amey’s PAS 2080 certification across three roles: Asset Owner/Manager, Designer, and Constructor. PAS 2080 is an internationally recognised standard for carbon management in infrastructure and the built environment, taking Amey further in its role as a sustainable provider. Samantha’s leadership and collaboration across multi-disciplined teams helped achieve this.
Having presented at key national events to showcase her expertise and share good practice, Samantha is also facilitating at the upcoming UN Global Compact SDG Roadshow. Samantha is a true pioneer in pushing our rail industry to a more sustainable future.
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Sarah Whurr
Company Name
GB Railfreight
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Sarah Whurr, Head of Sustainability at GBRf, has transformed sustainability from a support function into a core driver of business strategy. With a small team, she has led the delivery of all environmental reporting, steered the redrafting of the company’s Sustainability Policy and Carbon Reduction Plan, and ensured that multiple projects across the business are aligned with long-term climate goals.
Her leadership has been pivotal in communicating the case for rail freight as a greener alternative to road haulage, while championing investment in game-changing bi-mode Class 99 locomotives that take advantage of the UK’s carbon-neutral overhead line infrastructure. She has also driven the business to making smaller interventions that all help reduce emissions, from pushing an EV car scheme, to getting charging points installed at our Peterborough HQ and transitioning our van fleet to electric vehicles, Sarah brings passion, dedication, and vision every day—demonstrating that sustainability is not an afterthought but the future of rail freight.
For her tireless commitment, inspirational leadership, and her role in signposting the way forward for the industry, Sarah is a truly deserving recipient of the Sustainability Champion of the Year award.
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Steve Bather, Train Manager, Birkenhead Central
Company Name
Merseyrail
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Steve Bather, Train Manager, Birkenhead Central TCD
Steve is great at his job and has good customer service skills. He is calm in every situation and calms passengers during incidents and disruptions. He always tidies the trains he is managing. He takes pride in cleanliness. Steve is very humble. Out of work I have seen Steve pick litter in the neighbouring community. He spends hours tiding roadsides and park areas. This is something that he has never shared this. He does this in his own time and without the need to broadcast his good deed. For me Steve deserves a nomination for his good works for the environment and communities around. Steve embraces the Merseyrail Values and shows a good example in looking after the communities.
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Tom Vale
Company Name
Network Rail
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On average every year in the UK 6.4 million tonnes of edible food goes to waste. We throw away over one third of the food we produce which is equivalent to 15 billion meals and 8% of global greenhouse gases are generated by food waste.
Network Rail Retail team through Tom Vale has been working on how we tackle this issue with the support of our station retailers whilst supporting the local community as they go through this cost of living crisis. When Tom took on this project we knew it was a massive challenge from getting the retailers onboard, finding a partner as well as managing the contractual obligations and ensuring that we complied with national legislation around food safety and health and safety.
Working with the charity Olio and SSP (Select Service Partner), Tom worked through all the operational challenges, collaborated with all Network Rail touch points and ensured that any challenge he got he found a work around. Dealing with multiple internal stakeholders as well as external ones he launched a pilot scheme that delivered across all the KPI's and provide meals for free to those who need it most.
The feedback has been amazing and has benefitted so many local families, one of the helpers said 'I shared the food with a homeless woman and a struggling family, the homeless women's face it up like I was Father Christmas as I gave her present after present. The young family is really struggling as one of the twins is severely disabled, the parents are run ragged and exhausted and just scraping by, unloading a backpack of food brought tears to their eyes and so much gratitude.'
Tom has committed himself both mentally, physically and emotionally to this project and has also spent time collecting the food at night as a volunteer.
Taking this nationally across all the managed stations was again another challenge but as of the 1st November 2024 we have gone live and Tom continues to challenge the norm and has already signed up more retailers such as WHSmith, Costa, Boots & Pret-a-Manger, with more to come.
As well as covering all the Managed Stations Tom has also rolled out the scheme across 15 TOC station such as Brighton, Cardiff, Oxford, Marylebone & Woking.
Currently, Tom's programme has saved over 56.2 tonnes of food going to waste, has fed over 3,200 homes dealing with the cost-of-living crisis with 118,000 meals, taken over 790,000 car miles off the road as well as removing 211 tonnes of CO2
Having started out as a massive challenge Tom has delivered a project not only helping the local communities, reducing carbon footprints, and implementing sustainable solutions that can continue well into the future.
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