5 Myths about the Rail Industry
1. A career in the rail industry means high-vis and dirt.
Okay, so hi-vis isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, but a career in the rail industry is not limited to just high-vis and dirt. While some roles involve physical labor and safety gear, the industry offers diverse opportunities.
Engineers design and maintain infrastructure, operations staff manage train schedules, and there are management, customer service, technology, finance, marketing, and safety roles. The industry is continuously evolving with new technologies, creating opportunities in research and development. Whether fieldwork or office-based, there are various paths to explore based on individual interests and career goals.
2. It's a male-dominated industry
For decades, women have been part of the railway workforce, and remarkably, the number of women working in rail has remained unchanged since the end of World War II. Women bring heritage, knowledge, and valuable experience to the rail sector. To address the skills gap, the industry must actively identify, attract, and nurture top talent, specifically encouraging more women to join rail, engineering, and technical apprenticeships. Breaking the glass ceiling for women in senior positions is crucial. Investing in training and mentoring support is also essential.
When we speak to young girls today, aspiring to be future rail leaders, it is vital to reassure them that the rail industry offers a supportive and nurturing environment and is a sector that can match their ambition and provide an exciting and rewarding career path.
3. It isn’t exciting and modern
Apart from healthcare, no other industry wields a more significant influence on people's daily lives than the rail sector. Whether commuting to school, work, or connecting with loved ones, most of us will inevitably rely on the rail network at some stage in life. To meet the demands of the next generation of travellers, the rail industry seeks the participation of young creative thinkers and engineering talent.
Your ambition and dedication can be instrumental in shaping the future of rail and addressing the evolving needs of society. Embrace the opportunity to make a real impact and be a part of creating a better tomorrow for rail transportation.
4. You have to be an engineer
No, you do not have to be an engineer to work in the rail industry. While engineering is a crucial aspect of the rail sector and offers various opportunities, the industry is highly diverse and requires professionals from various backgrounds and skill sets to operate effectively.
Apart from engineering positions, opportunities exist in operations, customer service, management, technology and innovation, finance, safety and compliance, marketing, planning, and maintenance. The industry values individuals with diverse skills and experiences, providing fulfilling career paths for those passionate about contributing to efficient and growing rail networks.
5. It’s all about tracks, trains and stations
The rail industry extends beyond tracks, trains, and stations, encompassing various aspects such as operations, safety, technology, customer service, maintenance, finance, planning, sustainability, and research.
Its impact goes beyond transportation, influencing economies, societies, and the environment. With a continuous adoption of new technologies and a commitment to safety and efficiency, the rail sector remains dynamic and essential in the modern world.
With such diverse opportunities, people from various backgrounds and interests can find their perfect role within the industry.