Track Talk: Recent Episodes
Rail Technology Magazine
We are your hosts Matt and Emily and this is the RTM podcast, keeping you in the loop with rail industry news and giving you an all-access pass to the key decision makers in our industry. Together, we will shape the future of rail! #WeAreRTM
In the bustling heart of London, beneath the city's streets, a silent revolution is taking place. Transport for London (TfL) is undertaking an ambitious project to bring mobile coverage to the London Underground, transforming the way commuters stay connected. In a recent episode of the Rail Technology Magazine Podcast, host Peter Johnson sat down with Matt Griffin, Head of Commercial Telecoms at TfL, to delve into the intricacies of this monumental task.
The journey to bring mobile coverage to the tube began back in 2017 with initial tests on the Waterloo and City line. By March 2020, the eastern half of the Jubilee line boasted the first permanent mobile coverage. Fast forward to today, and the project is more than halfway complete, with about a third of the infrastructure already live. Matt, who has been at the helm since the early days, shares insights into the timeline and the progress made so far.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This month’s podcast is with the Head of Digital Ticketing Services at the Rail Delivery Group, John Backway.
The podcast covers some of the most pressing issues within the sector currently. John chats about how digital ticketing is changing how people interact with the rail network around them and how the advancing technology is making printed ticketing a redundant practice.
Efficiencies for customers is at the heart of work that Rail Delivery Group does and this is a key part of John’s remit. The podcast covers how digital ticketing helps drive those efficiencies, applying a common sense approach to how to utilise technology and how he thinks it is changing the industry.
The latest episode of the Rail Technology Magazine Podcast features Danny Vaughan, the Head of Metrolink in Manchester.
Danny has worked in light rail for 25 years and has overseen expansion projects across the city – Including the recently opened Trafford Park Line.
He discusses how light rail offers options and flexibility where mainline rail cannot, the hopeful future of TfGM’s all encompassing Bee Network, which hopes to change and simplify how transport in Manchester works and Metrolink’s place in that future.
Danny also expands on his experience, how he hopes for a better transport system and what he thinks technology within the industry can achieve.
On the latest episode of the Rail Technology Magazine podcast features Will Doyle, CEO of Rail Diary.
Will has grown Rail Diary since its inception into a key project management tool that uses data and intelligence to help site and commercial managers make decisions with all of the information in front of them.
We look at how data is changing the landscape for both on-site project management within the rail industry and how digitalisation is helping commercial decisions to be made.
Will shares his of experiences starting a company and ,how he navigated the early setbacks and how he managed to convince some of the biggest players in the industry to try Rail Diary.
Discover the next innovations within the industries and what the digital landscape within rail could look like in a few years.
The Rail Technology Magazine Podcast covers the some of the biggest topics within rail including innovation, policy and how the industry is tackling climate change. Our guests bring you unique and exclusive podcast episodes packed full of news, views and insight from rail industry leaders and innovators, responsible for shaping the future of the UK's railway.
Get the answers to the most pressing questions for the railway industry.
The Rail Technology Podcast is available to stream below and is also available on Spotify, Google Play, Apple Podcast and many more...
During the TransCityRail North event in Manchester, AECOM led a panel discussion that included Eoin O'Neill, Network Rail's Capital Delivery Director for the North West and Central Region, Conor Linnell, AECOM's Rail Leader for the North West and Central Region, and Georgia Ehrmann, Avanti West Coast's Head of Network Development and Planning.
The need for more industry collaboration was evident throughout the debate, with Eoin O'Neill encouraging the supply chain to think of Network Rail as a colleague rather than a customer. Eoin also outlined how Network Rail is striving to make it simpler for SMEs to participate in CP7 possibilities, making it clear to attendees that while Eastern suspended their CP7 procurement on Friday with hopes to relaunch it soon, NW&C has no plans to do the same.
Connor provided AECOM's perspective, emphasising that in his wide experience if we are all working toward the same goal but not together, efficiencies are lost.
Georgia offered some intriguing statistics to the discussion, stating that research has shown that every £1 invested in rail in the North generates £2.50 in economic growth.
Key rail industry stakeholders for an in-depth discussion exploring how we deliver a customer focussed sustainable Net-Zero railway.
This panel discussion is an interesting discussion exploring the innovation needed to deliver the decarbonisation of the UK’s railway.
Speakers Include:
Felix Chamberlain, Head of Sustainability, Network Rail
Christopher Harris, Carbon & Sustainability Manager, East West Rail
Mark Fenton, Carbon Manager, HS2
Amy Dickinson Head Of Sustainability, South Western Railway
Costas Panagiotakopoulos, Energy Manager, South Western Railway
The successful delivery of £billions worth of infrastructure investment is dependent upon an innovative and well-informed supply chain, which works in tandem with key rail industry stakeholders.
During this conversation, we look at the changing face of procurement as we transition towards Great British Railways and the impacts this will have across the whole industry. In a sector striving to eliminate carbon, create circular economies, protecting our natural environment and biodiversity whilst demonstrating social values, this transition must incorporate these factors whilst not forgetting passenger needs.
Panellists Include:
Kevin McNally, Head of Asset Investment – Rail & Sponsored Services | Engineering & Asset Strategy, Transport for London
Carol Williams, Head of Procurement, Laing O'Rourke
Ann-Marie Morrison, Client Account Director for Network Rail, Costain
During the TransCityRail South event in London, event partners ARUP lead a panel discussion on how we (whether clients, partners or guardians) of our rail infrastructure assets can work more effectively as a team to instil resilience constrained by limited budgets as the effects of climate change become more apparent on the management of our transport systems.
We were joined by:
Mona Sihota, Network Technical Head of Drainage and Off-Track, Network Rail
Sharon Lee, Director of Transport Asset Management, Arup
Councillor Martin Wrigley, Executive Member for Homes, Communities & Cost of Living Crisis
Sian Thomas, Director of Engineering and Asset Management, Southern Region
Sian Thomas explained how we need to be brave and bold to reach 70% carbon reduction by 2035, and she sees it more as an opportunity than a challenge; however, Mona Sihota disagreed and discussed how it is a challenge, not an opportunity, and it’s now that we need to be absolutely bold, and address climate change today before it’s too late… Sharon Lee also discussed how as suppliers we need to work on collaboration across the system to face the effects of climate change together.
If you would like to be involved in our upcoming TransCityRail event, through speaking, exhibiting or attendance click here.
Leaders debate Live at TransCityRail South, 28 September 2022
The current control period benefited from £40billion for rail capital projects seeing HS2 run at £22.8billion up to 2025. A further £17.5billion in capital funding has been issued for renewals, upgrades, and enhancements, whilst the London Underground alone spends around £1billion on renewals and new capital investment annually delivering a customer-focused railway for passengers and freight.
During this session, the supply chain gets to understand where these £billions are being spent and gets to learn of the innovation needed.
Hosted by Helen Fospero
Speakers Include:
Tim Walden, Capital Delivery Director Southern Region, Network Rail
Richard Moody, Head of Strategic Planning (Freight & Network Strategy), Network Rail
Kevin McNally, Head of Asset Investment – Rail & Sponsored Services | Engineering & Asset Strategy, Transport for London
Connor Fairhurst, host of Rail Technology Magazine's Track Talk podcast, chatted with Monica Barbosa, Head of Account Development at RSS Infrastructure, on episode 30 of the podcast.
Monica spoke on RSS's Integrated Infrastructure Solutions, the importance of safety in the rail industry in terms of both employee safety and mental health care, and how RSS is leading the way in supporting Network Rail's Safety Task Force.
Monica went on to say how important supply chain collaboration is, how SMEs always have the potential and motivation to innovate, and how free tools like the supply chain school for SMEs are available.
On episode 29 of RTM's Track Talk podcast host Connor Fairhurst spoke with Dr Brian Haddock, Seasons and Climate Specialist for Transport Modes from Network Rail on how the rail industry can futureproof against extreme weather events and potential service disruption.
On Episode 28 of RTM's Track Talk podcast, host Matt Roberts is joined by Neil Robertson, Chief Executive of the National Skills Academy for Rail (NSAR) for an honest conversation around the challenges facing the rail industry, how we can create new opportunities in the sector - particularly through apprenticeships, both for new arrivals to rail and those already in the industry - and how NSAR is involved with delivering this work, as we look to bolster and futureproof our workforce.
On Episode 27 of RTM's Track Talk, host Matt Roberts is joined by Chris Griffiths, Head of Product Sustainability at Marshalls to discuss the opportunities to improve sustainability around our railway stations, the need for standardisation of sustainability metrics to allow for better industry comparisons and what the next steps of the conversation around climate change must be: adaptation.
On Episode 26 of RTM's Track Talk podcast, brought to you in collaboration with KeTech, our host Matt Roberts sits down with Martin Howard, Customer Service Officer at Chiltern Railways to discuss the work that they have been doing to improve the journey and experiences of their passengers in their stations and on their routes.
On this week’s episode of RTM’s Track Talk, host Ailsa Cowen is joined by Gareth Dennis, a Railway Engineer and Writer. Gareth dissects the strong anti-devolution agenda affecting the industry, how our railways are a jack of all trades and master of none and how HS2 is a bit of light at the end of the tunnel.
Gareth discusses the 40% cut in Transport for the North’s operational budget. He says, “there’s no sensible reason to cut this money other than the fact the current Transport Minister has created his own what he calls Acceleration Unit’ to do the work that Transport for the North was supposed to be doing.”
He speaks enthusiastically about HS2 stating, “the main benefit of HS2 is not actually on HS2 it’s on the existing railway network.” He also discusses, “if the Eastern leg of HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail is dropped it would be a dismal abandonment, not just of the North but also the North East and the Midlands.”
In relation to the lack of William’s Review, he says, “we’re in the sci-fi fantasy future at the point where we need to get a grip and handle what transport really should look like.”
Looking towards the future he said that the biggest challenge right now is what happens after Covid. “The industry really needs to rally round and shout very loudly about how important it will be as part of Britain’s recovery.”
On this week’s episode of RTM’s Track Talk, host Ailsa Cowen is joined by two guests. Paul Appleton, Deputy Director of Railway Safety and HM Deputy Chief Inspector of Railways at ORR and George Bearfield, Health and Safety Director at Rock Rail. They discuss the increasing awareness of cyber safety in the rail world and why our cyber security is vital.
Paul spoke of how all our new modern trains are all heavily software-based. He explained how we’ve moved away from the electromechanical based systems meaning we need to make sure that we’re all ready to deal with any cyber security issues that may arise.
George reiterated how the risk to our cyber security is live and growing and Paul echoed his point by saying “sheer awareness” is a big issue.
Paul described that one of the biggest issues you find is that each part of the industry will have and operate its “own private language” which causes issues and that it’s not the safety departments responsibility to run the train system safely, it’s everybody's.
George said the “UK is generally world-class when it comes to cyber security, from the likes of GCHQ and right back to Alan Turing, the Bletchley code breakers”, meaning we know how to do this.
Paul and George repeat the message throughout that knowing our vulnerabilities, what are the things we need to protect against and learning are of high importance for the future.
On this week’s episode of RTM’s Track Talk, host Ailsa Cowen is joined by Jim McMahon MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Transport. Jim divulges why we should be leading from the front on technology and innovation, the dangers around trimming back on HS2, and his belief in the potential of the North, as a real powerhouse and not just as a slogan.
Jim discusses the gaps in support from Government during the pandemic for rail operators, particularly open-access operators, “we would like to see them extend the support they’ve offered to franchise holders towards our open access providers like Hull Trains.”
HS2 is another big talking point due to recent speculations around the eastern leg being completely wiped out. Jim details, “if you start trimming back that project, you’re not going to get the full benefits of it” and “we should have north, south connectivity, we should have east, west connectivity.”
Jim also talks about accessibility in our rail stations, “the idea that on the current trend we’ll be waiting 50 years to have fully accessible stations is just not good enough at all.”
He also highlights that, “had the North of England had the same money as London and the south, over the last decade we would have had an additional £66bn. What do we get in this budget? £4bn.”
In terms of the future, he explained “when we see investment in the industry when we see investment in revenue and capital from the government, you’re also seeing a direct investment in the future.”
On this week’s episode of RTM’s Track Talk, host Ailsa Cowen is joined by Steve White, Chief Operating Officer at Govia Thameslink Railway. Steve discusses GTR’s trains testing negative for Covid-19, turning the organisation jar upside down and sprinkling fairy dust across the railways.
Steve speaks about progress and how “there’s a whole generation of people now who are looking to make sure their travel choices are sustainable ones.”
In terms of passenger numbers, Steve tells us this means “a huge revenue shortfall” and that “DfT are subsidizing that shortfall. In our business alone to the tune of more than £3 million a day.”
Steve identifies that “this pandemic has been really difficult for a lot of people” in terms of mental wellbeing. GTR also recently appointed a Head of Suicide Prevention and have since “made over 400 lifesaving interventions in the last 12 months, that’s more than one a day.”
He also speaks of acts of kindness throughout the pandemic, with one example being a group of train drivers donating their travel money to the NHS.
Steve reflects that “we’ve now got a chance to take the best of what we’ve already created and build from here.”
On this week’s episode of RTM’s Track Talk, host Ailsa Cowen is joined by Maria Machancoses, Director of Midlands Connect. Maria talks about the importance of HS2 to the Midlands and the UK, collaborating with DfT and how we need to embrace the railways again.
Maria discusses the importance of HS2 to the East Midlands and how it cannot, “be looked at as Phase 1, Phase 2… it needs to be looked at as a whole network. That’s what will make a real difference to the UK.”
She also talks about the Midlands collaboration with DfT, saying there has been, “an appetite for the government to work with the East Midlands in regards to future franchises, future timetabling but obviously in terms of what’s next we’re still waiting announcement from budget.”
Electrification is another big talking point, with Maria pointing out that only 30% of the network is able to carry electric trains, “in a climate change emergency this isn’t good enough.”
Passenger confidence needs to be reinstated and Maria is very aware of this obstacle, “we’ve got to give people a sense that this horrendous pandemic will go away.”
In terms of looking ahead to the future, Maria wishes for the “world to see Britain bring in again another revolution in terms of the green railway.”
On this week’s episode of RTM’s Track Talk, host Ailsa Cowen is joined by Tom Moran, Managing Director of Thameslink & Great Northern. Tom spoke about living with a Victorian rail network, the importance of a diverse workforce, turning stations into art galleries and how the days of having a timetable booklet are gone.
Tom explained GTR’s three main areas of focus for transforming their stations, “how we can make things work better for passengers, making sure the stations look smarter and we’re also working hard to make our stations more sustainable.”
Accessibility is also discussed with Tom stating, “I believe very firmly that the current situation isn’t good enough, it’s nowhere near good enough.”
He also speaks highly of their doubling of female train driver applicants in the past 12 months following a dedicated recruitment campaign and GTR wish to have a 50/50 gender split on all of their training programmes by the end of next year.
In reference to GTRs response to Covid-19, Tom had nothing but praise for his colleagues. “Nine months of completely unprecedented circumstances, but at every single minute of every day, we’ve kept the railway running.”
His hopes for the future focus on, “the more we can make train travel and trains themselves fully sustainable the better.”
On this week’s episode of RTM’s Track Talk, host Ailsa Cowen is joined by Ed Akers, Principal Programme Sponsor for Network Rail’s East Coast Upgrade. Ed gives an update on the £1.2bn project, the importance of collaboration and why the project feels like performing open heart surgery on a live patient.
Ed talks to us about the Werrington Grade Separation and how the 11,000-ton curved concrete box structure, which is “about as long as and as heavy as the Eiffel Tower” is being put into place.
He discusses the issue of trains carrying empty seats and how he isn’t concerned about all this momentous work on the ECML and people may still be hesitant travel, “It’s not just about the here and now for the ECML programme, it’s about the future.”
The upgrade programme has also recently announced a £10 million co-investment partnership with the University of Leeds and upon reflection Ed said, “it’s vital that the industry looks wider, not just to itself but also to other expertise.”
He tells us about how local suppliers helped keep the project going in the first lockdown, and continue to do so. “It’s really important that we continue to look after local communities and local employers and suppliers wherever we can because you never know when they are going to come through for you.”
Ed also spoke with passion about the future of our railways, “I really hope in 10 years’ time we see a greater roll out of electrification.”
On this week’s episode of RTM’s Track Talk, host Ailsa Cowen is joined by Neil Walker, Exports Director at the Railway Industry Association. Neil talks about InnoTrans 2021, how he and his team support UK rail companies when it comes to exporting and why rail is such a vibrant sector.
Neil tells us about his role at RIA, where he helps members export all around the world by working alongside the Department for Transport and the Department for International Trade.
He also tells us about RIA’s recent joining of Reshoring UK and how it will, “support RIA members who are looking to fill gaps in their supply chain.”
RIA have held numerous webinars over the past few months, where rail the industry from Estonia to Denmark to Poland have been able to discuss their recent innovations.
He also spoke about InnoTrans being cancelled this year due to the Covid-19 outbreak, but looking ahead to the exciting event in Berlin next year, “for 2021, RIA will have two pavilions, and currently we have 19 countries represented across those pavilions.”
Neil also discussed where he’d like to see the industry in 10 years’ time, and how he hopes the UK’s list of exporters continues to grow.
This week host Ailsa Cowen is joined by two guests from Network Rail. Martin Mason, Programme Manager, at Network Rail’s Digital Railway and Kelley Quirk, Programme Manager, at Network Rail’s Intelligent Infrastructure programme.
They discuss Network Rail’s Intelligent Infrastructure Programme and the rollout of the Track Decision Support Tool.
Kelley and Martin work closely together and sit across two teams within the Intelligent Infrastructure programme.
Martin described their partnership as, “It’s like ying and yang. Without the two we can’t create the product.”
Kelley stated that, “Intelligent Infrastructure is a crucial programme for Network Rail” and described their work as, “turning the wealth of data into intelligent information.”
The Track Decision Support Tool is also the height of discussion. With both guests illustrating how the tool aids the network.
Kelley describes the Track Decision Support Tool as providing, “maintenance teams with predications on what fault will occur and how, and allow them enough time to plan an effective intervention earlier.”
Martin said, “it’s a cultural shift from the way we work at the moment. The technology, aspiration and vision, it comes hand and hand with being able to manage the business change side. And to be able to support our frontline staff.”
They also discuss how we’ve got a really old railway and everything that they’re doing supports maintaining that in the best possible way.
David Ollerhead, Programme Director at Network Rail’s Open for Business Programme, joins host Ailsa Cowen for episode 15 of Rail Technology Magazine’s podcast, Track Talk. David discusses playing with trains as a child, investment into our railway and removing barriers for third parties.
His career at Network Rail began nine years ago but he self-confessed his interest possibly began earlier after admitting, “I did play with train tacks when I was younger.”
He divulges into how we should be, “maintaining and enhancing the railway” by “unlocking rail investment.”
SME’s are also talked about with David revealing Network Rail are, “eager to work with SME’s and the supply chain” after working with 3,000 SME’s in the last financial year.
The newly formed Acceleration Unit from the Department of Transport is also a “statement of confidence,” according to David.
His enthusiasm for eliminating carbon emissions is also a big talking point, with him stating, “I do see the rail industry as a major contributor towards sustainability.”
David’s passion for the railway is unquestionable. He tells the listener to “be confident there’s a long-term future for the railway.”
Louise Coward, Head of Insight at Transport Focus, joins host Ailsa Cowen for episode 15 of Rail Technology Magazine’s podcast, Track Talk. Louise talks about a ‘Head Out to Help Out’ campaign, keeping passengers safe and their ongoing projects.
She divulges into the RPI increase on rail fares and says this is not the right kind of issue for passengers right now because Covid-19 has completely changed the way we travel.
She calls for, “’let’s have better products that will fit the way people are going to be using the railways” in a world where working from home could be happening more regularly.
She also states that, “a real assurance piece is to be done so that people know they’re being looked after” in relation to people knowing they’re safe on the railways with regards to Covid-19.
She says the rail industry is going to have to work hard to reinstate passenger confidence as, “people are feeling more uncertain about the future now because the earth beneath us has been shaken.”
She also talks about their National Rail Passenger Survey, which has been running for more than 20 years.
Transport Focus has a community of rail uses that report to them on a weekly basis, Louise said they tell them how they respond to new initiatives, what they think of new changes as we all go back to the new normal.
Harriet Glen, Head of Programme Close Out at Crossrail, joins us on this week’s episode of RTM’s Track Talk to discuss the largest construction project in Europe.
Harriet gives us an update on the project that was brought to a standstill during lockdown but her “team are working around the clock to provide a detailed recovery plan.”
She also told us how and why Crossrail have led the way in, “diversifying and attracting the next generation of talent,” and why bringing in a range of thinkers from different backgrounds is so important.
Crossrail have also taken care of their employees during lockdown, Harriet spoke about why, “asking the simple question of how are you doing” is so vital.
Diversity and inclusion were also discussed, with Harriet recalling her first day at TfL and seeing an “array of grey suits.” But she told us how Crossrail have “a male ally” in the form of their CEO, Mark Wild, who has curated a board of diverse members.
With the “new normal” coming into play and “all hands on deck,” it’s clear Harriet and her team will not let anything stop them delivering the momentous project, not even a pandemic.
David Rowe, Head of Strategy at Network Rail in the newly established Technical Authority, joins host Ailsa Cowen for episode 13 of Rail Technology Magazine’s podcast, Track Talk, to talk all things innovation in the rail industry.
David divulges into how the rail industry is built on new technology and the importance of giving voice and choice to passengers and freight users.
He also spoke avidly about Network Rail’s Research and Development Portfolio, which is approaching 200 projects.
He also highlighted the importance of creating opportunities, encouraging and supporting young people to create a more diverse workforce.
The unavoidable Covid-19 outbreak was also discussed, with David stating that the rail world is in its element when responding to a crisis.
He also specified that all the challenges before Covid-19 have not gone away but it’s important when it comes to recovery that we enjoy the journey into a slightly different world.
Adeline Ginn MBE, Founder & Chair of Women in Rail, joined host Ailsa Cowen for episode 12 of Rail Technology Magazine’s podcast, Track Talk, to discuss all things gender balance, diversity and inclusion. The charity WR have played an enormous part in promoting diversity within the rail sector since it began in 2012, by this time Adeline had over 10 years of experience in the business. Adeline was quick to point out WR is ran by volunteers but also has up to 4,000 male and female members, as both genders have a huge part to play in encouraging inclusion.
She spoke avidly about giving companies and organisations guidance on being more open about how they’re working to promote gender balance and making women feel less isolated. WR carried out an industry survey in 2015, which they repeated in 2017, and found that 16.4% of the workforce in rail are women, meaning there’s still a way to go. It was clear Adeline could have spoken about WR’s work for hours, her hard-work and desire for diversity is undeniable.
Saba Yussouf, CEO of Invisi Smart Technologies UK, joins host Ailsa Cowen for episode 11 of Rail Technology Magazine's podcast Track Talk.
This partnered episode allows the rail industry to hear about a revolutionary piece of technology that has been developed to kill all bacteria and viruses that, once sprayed onto any surface, stays in place for year.
Meaning this could be a game changer for the industry when fighting against the Covid-19 outbreak and getting the industry rolling back into normality as soon as possible.
If you want to know more about how this protective spray could keep rail staff and passengers safe, this podcast is for you.
Kate Jennings, Policy Director at the Railway Industry Association (RIA), joins guest host Matt Roberts for episode 10 of Rail Technology Magazine's podcast - now under its new name Track Talk - to talk about how the rail industry innovates during coronavirus, the role RIA is playing and the power rail has in the UK's economic recovery coming out of this pandemic.
This episode of Track Talk is brought to you in association with Invisi Smart Technologies.
Debbie Francis, Direct Rail Services, joins us in the RTM Podcast room to discuss the rail industry from a freight perspective. Debbie is a rail fanatic, leading the way in a male dominated area of the rail industry.
With hosts Matt Roberts and Ailsa Cowen, the conversation flowed from Debbie’s involvement in the NHS, coming out of school with no qualifications and why she is proud to be a Northerner.
Do you think HS2 will happen? Do you think it will benefit the North? Debbie is here to give her opinion on why the project will enhance the North’s capability and connectivity.
Passionate about growing diversity within the freight industry, Debbie tells us about her work in furthering equality in the sector and why increasing the number of female train drivers is so important.
Debbie is a woman with more than one string to her bow and is keen to promote why transport is paramount and key for growth in the North.
Martin Frobisher, Group director, Safety, Technical & Engineering at Network Rail, joins us in the RTM Podcast room to discuss the renewable railway of the future and safety on the track. As a Director of industry giant, Network Rail, Martin has a lot of advice regarding safety and security on railways, but it might not be what you think.
With hosts Emily Rodgers and Ailsa Cowen, the conversation kept flowing in the RTM podcast room in Manchester as we hear all Martin’s role in ensuring the 42,000 network rail staff are working safely, and how this can spread to the wider supply chain.
Find out Martin’s opinion on the Oakervee review, his work with RSSB and what aspect he thinks ‘Britain’s railway has got it right’.
Martin believes that technology is the key to a safer railway and that modern systems can take people away from the path of trains and a Safety Taskforce that has already seen a 30% reduction in the number of people working with lookout flags making a 70% reduction in near missed from people using that method of work.
Another area of passion for Martin is environmental, he talks in depth about a fully electric railway and says a zero-carbon railway is the really big picture for the next 20/30 years.
Regional Director for the Rail Delivery Group and former journalist for Sky News and the BBC, Robert Nisbet joins us in the studio to discuss his career move into the rail industry and how technology is improving Britain’s railways year on year.
On the agenda in the most recent RTM podcast Robert discusses the history of railways and the connection between that and Britain’s national history. He believes that rail will play a huge role going for, as it has done in the past, with high speed rail being at the forefront of future plans.
With the latest government review advising against the cancellation of HS2, Robert discusses why HS2 will have not only a financial benefit to the country but also an environmental one with it helping the government to meet its carbon neutral target by 2050.
Since taking on his role just 4 weeks before the May 2018 timetable change, Robert has championed the rail industry to the media as well as defended the industry’s ongoing commitment to bettering the services they offer.
Robert also discusses the importance of maintaining relationships between rail providers and customers through transparent ticket prices, minimal delays and more accessible trains and train stations. Robert believes that improving technology on Britain’s railways will lead to a better experience for not only passengers but also the companies running them.
Director of Northern Powerhouse Rail at Transport for the North, Tim Wood, joins us in the RTM Podcast room to discuss benefits and opportunities the Northern Powerhouse Rail can bring. Gain inside information on the progress of Northern Powerhouse Rail from the Director himself.
With hosts Emily Rodgers and Ailsa Cowen, the conversation kept flowing in the RTM podcast room in Manchester as we hear all about how Tim plans to spend the current allowance of £75m, and how rail companies can position themselves in front of him.
Aspirations of £100bn extra to the GVA of the North and a further £850,000 full time jobs by 2050 are just some of the side effects of this new rail network, set to improve capacity and connectivity across the country.
Learn all about how HS2 and NPH Rail go hand in hand and why we can’t have one without the other, and how close is he of meeting his promise of “spades in the ground by 2024”?
Passionate about developing a thriving North of England, Tim believes this ‘turn up and go’ system is set to transform the North, with the help of SMEs – as he is expecting 60-65% of the work to go to them.
This and much more in this exclusive interview with the man delivering the programme.
Director of Business development and communications at XRAIL, Monica Barbosa, joins us in the RTM Podcast room to discuss the rail industry from an SME perspective. Monica is a cheerleader for small and medium enterprises and explains how the innovation they can provide are vital to the rail industry.
With hosts Emily Rodgers and Ailsa Cowen, the conversation kept flowing here in the RTM podcast room in Manchester as we hear all about the exciting, 7-year XRAIL contract in the Middle East and why the British rail industry stands to learn a lot from it.
Do you think HS2 should be a digital solution for a digital age? Monica is here to tell us why the answer is yes and how XRAIL can contribute.
Passionate about changing the narrative of rail in the media, Monica highlights the positive aspects of the industry, why its loved by so many people, and why we should start engaging with train spotters.
She’s not what you would consider a typical ‘rail bod’, Monica doubles as an Instagram Influencer, but this podcast is all about how SMEs can influence the ever-changing supply chain.
Hollie Woodard – VolkerWessels
Show Notes – RTM Podcast ep. 4
Hollie Woodard, head of equality, diversity and inclusion at VolkerWessels UK, joins us in the studio for the fourth episode of our RTM podcast, talking at length about improving industry diversity and changing the narrative at an early age to make rail a realistic and exciting career prospect for the next generation.
As Hollie explains, it can be hard to tell kids to get excited about rail when previously we’ve spent so long warning them about the “dangers of the railway”. So, how do we make rail sexy? Our guest has a few ideas, as part of this fascinating discussion between VolkerWessels’ head of ED&I and our RTM podcast hosts Matt and Ailsa.
Her current role came about in an unusual manner too; but perfectly represents the kind of person Hollie is. Asked by her organisation what would keep her in the role, then working as a project manager, she opted away from the perhaps expected answers of more money or a promotion in favour of making a real difference in the industry.
As such, VolkerWessels’ first head of equality, diversity and inclusion was born, and in the past two years Hollie has seen significant improvements in the industry, both in her own organisation and beyond. However, there is still plenty more progress to be made too, so tune in to find out an expert’s opinions on just how we can realise this necessary societal and industry shift.
There is a fun element too, as we test the rail industry knowledge of our guest with a news quiz of some of the headlines of that week. How well will she do, and can you beat her?
Our guests are important figures across the rail industry and Hollie is no different. Can you afford to miss out on the opportunity to discover how we can best improve and diversify the next generation of rail workers?
Loraine Martins MBE, Director of Diversity and Inclusion at Network Rail, joins us in the studio for the third episode of our RTM podcast, talking at length about her role and how it came about – Loraine was the first person to hold her current position – as well as how accessibility and diversity can be attained across the rail sector, both for passengers and in the supply chain.
Light-hearted humour and conversation filters in between Loraine and hosts Emily Rodgers and Matt Roberts at the Cognitive Publishing offices in Manchester, as vital hard-hitting discussions around improving industry inclusion are paired with the inevitable Arsenal v Newcastle discussion when putting a Londoner and a Geordie on a sofa together.
A recent name to be included in the Top 100 most influential women in engineering, the ever humble Loraine also discusses with our hosts the feelings of being named among such incredible women within the engineering sector and earning an MBE for her work with the Olympic Planning Committee in setting up the London 2012 Olympic Games, ensuring the projects utilised local workforce and upskilled the workers – who are now the same people working on HS2 and CrossRail.
Covering a range of elements and discussions in the timely half-hour sitting, this episode provides an all-access pass to Network Rail’s diversity and accessibility push, how the supply chain gets involved and the behind-the-scenes thought processes and desires involved from one of the most important people in planning out these future strategies. As Loraine says, Network Rail wish to “create opportunities to make sure our organisation is much more open, inclusive and diverse so we are an accessible railway for all passengers” – can you afford to miss out being a part of that development?
The podcast might be industry-focused, with a core message supporting the supply chain in furthering their rail knowledge, but that doesn’t stop the laughs and light-hearted fun flowing throughout.
Our guests may be important figures at the head of key decision-making organisations in the industry, but we’re all just people too at the end of the day. As such, want to hear about Loraine’s favourite music, some of her personal past history and try your hand alongside us at the Olympics pub quiz, then tune in keenly!
Mike Hulme, Director of Alstom and Chair of Northern Rail Industry Leaders, joins us in the studio for our second RTM podcast, giving us exclusive insight into the rail supply chain and why rail is starting to become more cutting-edge.
With our hosts Emily Rodgers and Matt Roberts, the conversation covers everything from cricket to claustrophobia, Pendelino to Portillo and more.
Digitalisation, smart ticketing, and the three biggest things threatening the rail industry are all covered in this light-hearted sit down with one of the most important people in rail.
Hulme goes into detail on why SMEs play a huge role in the rail industry and how companies can get in front of industry giants like Alstom.
If you’re looking to make your mark in the rail industry, you’re in the right place. Mike has all the experience and is willing to share it with us all on this podcast.
Our guest has been there for some of the most important projects in recent rail history and knows first-hand about Northern Powerhouse Rail and HS2’s role in the UK economy.
Young people thinking about a career in rail shouldn’t miss out on this one, or maybe you’re in the industry already and want to further expand your knowledge before taking your next step.
Think you can beat an industry leader in a railway quiz? Play along with him and see if you’ve got what it takes.
Find out who Mike would have at his TCR table and his favourite thing about working in rail on this second episode of the #WeAreRTM podcast.
To quote Mike “we have the tools in the box, we just have to find the commercial way to make it happen” That’s where you come in.
Anna-Jane Hunter, Network Rail’s director, North of England rail, joins us in the studio for our very first RTM podcast, giving a deep dive into her role, women in rail and the supply chain alongside some more light-hearted podcast antics.
Alongside hosts Emily Rodgers and Matt Roberts, the conversation is kept flowing at the Cognitive Publishing offices here in Manchester as we discuss all things rail here in the North of England. Two proud North East voices, alongside Emily’s own North West background, shines through as we chat in detail about the investment into the North and provide our listeners with an unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to a key figure in the industry.
Covering such a range of topics in the timely half-hour sitting, this episode provides an all-access pass to the supply chain and rail industry individuals which simply can’t afford ignore. Interested in tenders or perhaps leaving a local legacy following a project work? So are Network Rail, so why not listen in to one of the company’s key figures for Northern outreach giving her views on the same.
It’s not all supporting either. Anna-Jane might be a ‘Network Rail bod’ as she describes it, but listen in as she gives a real genuine, honest assessment of her organisation and the state of rail and rail work in the region. There are no punches pulled, with talk of Network Rail’s need to quicker innovate and seize on transferable skills.
The podcast might be industry-focused, with a core message supporting the supply chain in furthering their rail knowledge, but that doesn’t stop the laughs and light-hearted fun flowing throughout.
Our guests may be important figures at the head of key decision-making organisations in the industry, but we’re all just people too at the end of the day. As such, want to hear about Anna-Jane’s favourite music, the significance of bacon butties and listen in to her attempting our rail pub quiz, tune in just as keenly!
Bonus episode recorded live at TCR North 2019, featuring Caroline Whittam, head of rail franchising at TfGM. This podcast is brought to you by Keltbray, specialists in civil engineering and construction since 1976 with over 2000 employees playing a vital role in delivering some of the UK’s biggest projects in rail.