Railway Transportation Systems (RTS) Podcast: Recent Episodes

Rahiman

The Railway Transportation Systems podcast features interviews with leaders in railway industry from Australia and around the world. Each guest will share their insights emphasising the railway technologies, the inspiration that led them to become one of the most successful railway entrepreneurs and various other discipline professionals. Let’s listen and learn together about various factors that are shaping our railways and about cutting-edge technological developments that are taking place in the industry. Published every fortnight, hosted by Rahiman Shaik, Railway Systems Specialist. Email: railwaytransportationsystems@gmail.com

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“Modern railways don’t just run on tracks — they run on safe, integrated systems that think, respond, and evolve.” — Akshaya Malaviya

We're thrilled to feature Akshaya Malaviya, one of Australia’s leading experts in signalling, train control, and rail systems engineering, on the 79th episode of the Railway Transportation Systems Podcast.

With more than 30 years across Indian Railways, ARTC, Queensland Rail, Metro Trains Melbourne, UGL and Interface Rail Engineering, Akshaya has shaped some of the most complex rail programs in Australia — from high‑capacity digital signalling (CBTC) to multi‑disciplinary systems integration, safety assurance, and major network enhancements.

In this episode, we dive into:

🔹 CBTC, ETCS and the realities of transitioning from legacy systems
🔹 Managing assurance for mega‑projects like the Melbourne Metro Tunnel
🔹 What true systems integration looks like across signalling, rolling stock, PSDs and control systems
🔹 Risk, governance and safety case development — done right
🔹 Technology selection, business case challenges and the future of digital rail

Whether you’re a signalling engineer, systems specialist, project director or simply passionate about the future of rail transport, this conversation is packed with insights from someone who has led at scale.

If you’re looking to understand where rail systems are headed — and what it takes to deliver them safely and effectively — this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

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“The challenge of the modern railway about the technology; it’s all about the people and the seamless integration of the functionality that technology enables into a living, breathing operational network while maintaining absolute safety and assurance.” — Mark Smith

We are thrilled to welcome Mark Smith (FIEAust CPEng Eng Exec), Project Lead at Australian Rail Industry Standards Organisation and former Executive Director at Transport for NSW, to our 78th episode of the Railway Transportation Systems podcast!

With over 30 years of experience across the UK and Australia, Mark has been at the forefront of some of the most complex rail transformations in recent history. From establishing and leading the engineering and assurance settings for the Digital Systems Program (ETCS L2) in Sydney to delivering an array of complex engineering services to enable multi-billion dollar transport infrastructure portfolios, Mark brings a wealth of "hands-on" executive experience to the table.

In this episode, we dive deep into:

The Digital Shift: The technical realities of implementing ETCS Level 2, ATO, and Traffic Management Systems in brownfield environments.
Systems Integration: Why "system-of-systems" thinking is the only way to deliver modern rail projects.
The Human Element: Building engineering competency and the critical role of the Rail Safety Worker in a high-tech future.
Leadership & Governance: How to balance commercial delivery pressures with rigorous safety assurance.

Whether you are a systems engineer, a project director, or an industry enthusiast, this conversation offers a masterclass in rail leadership and technical strategy.

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“Rail safety shouldn’t depend on clear skies. It should depend on clear perception.”

We’re thrilled to host Vicky Alman, CEO of NIART Systems, on the Railway Transportation Systems podcast.

In this episode, we explore how NIART’s radar-powered perception platform, is redefining rail safety and reliability—delivering long-range obstacle detection (1200m+), all-visibility performance, and a practical pathway from driver assistance to autonomous operations. We also dig into lessons from real-world projects with Indian Railways and Alstom, and how operators can integrate radar as an end-to-end solution or as a service.

Tune in to learn:

Why radar is mission-critical in fog, rain, snow, and darkness
How multi-sensor fusion builds safety redundancy
The ROI story: preventing accidents, reducing downtime, increasing efficiency
What’s next on the autonomy roadmap for rail

Learn more about NIART: niart-systems.com

The podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon Prime, Apple podcast, YouTube, Audible, Overcast, Castro, cast box and Pod friend wherever you listen.

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“Safety is something that happens between your ears, not something you hold in your hands.” – Jeff Cooper

This week on the Railway Transportation Systems podcast, I’m joined by Carolyn Walsh, Chair of the National Transport Commission (NTC) and one of Australia’s most respected voices in transport safety and reform.

With over 40 years of experience across industry policy, regulation, and governance, Carolyn has been at the forefront of major reforms that have shaped how transport operates in Australia. From leading the establishment of the Independent Transport Safety and Reliability Regulator after the Waterfall tragedy to developing the National Rail Safety Model Bill and advising on Sydney Metro’s safety frameworks, her influence is deeply woven into our transport landscape.

Today, Carolyn is guiding the NTC through landmark achievements—most recently, securing Ministerial agreement to adopt ETCS as Australia’s national signalling and communications standard, a move widely welcomed by the rail industry.

🎙️ In this episode, we cover:
🔹 Lessons in leadership from decades of regulatory reform
🔹 Why ETCS adoption is a game-changer for Australian rail
🔹 The challenge of achieving national consistency in transport policy
🔹 Aligning safety, sustainability, and innovation for the future
🔹 Carolyn’s vision for the legacy of the NTC

This episode is a must-listen for those passionate about rail safety, regulatory reform, and the future of transport in Australia.

👉 Tune in to hear how Carolyn is helping drive safety and innovation across our national transport system.

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"Digital transformation isn’t just about systems—it’s about empowering people with the right information at the right time." – Scott Mc Gowan

We’re excited to welcome Scott McGowan, CEO of COSOL, to the latest episode of the Railway Transportation Systems podcast.

With a career spanning decades across rail, mining, and asset-intensive industries, Scott brings a powerful blend of leadership, strategic vision, and hands-on technical expertise. In this episode, we dive into:

🔹 The digital transformation journey in the rail sector
🔹 Integrating enterprise systems like SAP, Ellipse, and SCADA
🔹 Using data and mobility to unlock operational efficiency
🔹 COSOL’s global impact—from Australia to North America
🔹 The future of predictive analytics, sustainability, and innovation in transport

Whether you're a rail professional, systems engineer, or digital transformation leader, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

The podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon Prime, Apple podcast, YouTube, Audible, Overcast, Castro, Cast box and Pod friend wherever you listen.

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“The train is the most civilized mode of transport. You can read, move about, and—if you want—meet interesting people.” – Sir Michael Palin

Why has the U.S.—a nation of innovation—fallen so far behind in passenger rail? And what will it take to reinvent medium-distance travel for the modern age?

On the 75th episode of the Railway Transportation Systems podcast, I sit down with Joshua Dominic, Co-Founder & CEO of Dreamstar Lines, who is leading one of the most ambitious passenger rail projects in America today.

Joshua and his team are working to reintroduce overnight trains as a premium, sustainable alternative to cars and planes—starting with a luxury service between Los Angeles and San Francisco. With design partnerships like BMW’s Designworks and a landmark agreement with Union Pacific, Dreamstar aims to close the country’s “500-mile gap” in travel by combining comfort, convenience, and sustainability.

🎙️ In this episode, Joshua shares:
🔹 Why U.S. passenger rail lags behind the rest of the world
🔹 The untapped potential of overnight rail travel
🔹 How private enterprise can transform U.S. rail
🔹 The balance of luxury, innovation, and sustainability in Dreamstar’s vision
🔹 What the future of American medium-distance travel could look like

This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about rail, mobility, or sustainable innovation.

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🌟 “The great aim of education is not knowledge but action.” – Herbert Spencer

Railway Transportation Systems podcast is excited to host Ivan Ristić, a highly accomplished railway signalling and telecommunications engineer with 26+ years of experience leading complex rail infrastructure projects across Europe, the Balkans, and Africa.

From modernising over 100 stations with electronic interlocking systems to contributing to national ERTMS/ETCS programmes and integrating GSM-R and CBTC technologies, Ivan brings unmatched expertise and insights into delivering safe, efficient, and future-ready rail networks.

This episode dives into:
✅ The evolution of signalling systems from legacy to modern technologies
✅ Lessons from internationally funded projects (European Commission, EBRD, and more)
✅ Challenges of implementing ERTMS/ETCS and CBTC in existing networks
✅ The future of railway telecommunications and signalling innovation

Ivan’s career is a testament to turning knowledge into impactful action in railway modernisation.

🎧 Tune in to hear how Ivan’s leadership at Signalling Solutions d.o.o. is shaping railways for the future.

The podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon Prime, Apple podcast, YouTube, Audible, Overcast, Castro, Cast box and Pod friend wherever you listen.

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“We built Trax to solve the exact problems we faced on site — scattered QA, missed handovers, and endless duplication. It had to be practical, field-friendly, and built for rail” – Scott Walker

We’re excited to welcome Scott Walker, Co-founder of Railway Engineering Solutions (RES), to the latest episode of the Railway Transportation Systems podcast.

Scott shares the journey behind Trax, the digital platform built by rail engineers, for rail engineers — solving real-world challenges in QA, compliance, and handover processes on major infrastructure projects.

🎙 In this episode, we explore:
✅ How Trax helped enable the world’s first fully digital signalling commissioning
✅ The platform’s role in streamlining field data and eliminating duplication
✅ Upcoming innovations, including AI-powered workflows and digital config management
✅ Lessons from delivering high-profile projects like Metro Tunnel and Caulfield–Dandenong LXRP
✅ Scott’s advice for aspiring railtech entrepreneurs navigating delivery and disruption

Whether you're managing rail systems, testing & commissioning, or curious about digital transformation in transport — this is one conversation you don’t want to miss.

The podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon Prime, Apple podcast, Stitcher, Google podcast, Audible, Overcast, Castro, Cast box and Pod friend wherever you listen.

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We're thrilled to welcome Eyal Trichter, CEO of Trilogical Technologies, to the show!

With over two decades of experience in engineering, R&D, and business development, Eyal is a true leader in the evolution of rolling stock telematics and Remote Condition Monitoring & Diagnostics for the rail industry.

🎯 In this episode, Eyal shares:

How Trilogical's Long-Train Intelligence System© (LTIS) is transforming fleet intelligence
Why smart diagnostics are crucial for modern rail operations
Lessons from implementing IoT-driven tech across critical industries like defense, aviation, and logistics
The role of data in improving safety, operational and maintenance efficiency for rail operators globally

Trilogical Technologies is at the forefront of digital rail transformation— certified under the International Railway Industry Standard program, proud members of ASLRRA and RSSI associations in the US, regular exhibitors at InnoTrans and the Railway Interchange shows, and now... featured on our podcast!

🎧 Don’t miss this insightful conversation with one of the rail tech industry's most forward-thinking minds.

The podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon Prime, Apple podcast, YouTube, Audible, Overcast, Castro, Cast box and Pod friend wherever you listen.

"Digital transformation isn't optional in transport—it's essential for driving efficiency and innovation." – Val Matthews

We’re excited to announce that in our 66th episode of Railway Transportation Systems podcast, we’ll be joined by none other than Val Matthews, Co-founder & CEO of Project Advisory Group and Project Connect Group, as well as host of the Project Chatter Podcast!

With over 20 years of experience in project management, digital transformation, and strategic planning, Val has been instrumental in closing the digital divide in the construction and transport sectors. We'll dive into how Val’s innovative approach to technology, customer experience, and design thinking is modernizing project management and driving success in transport infrastructure.

🌟 Don’t miss out! Tune in to hear Val’s insights on:

The future of digital solutions in transport projects
Key strategies for integrating data and tech in infrastructure
How customer experience can shape project outcomes
And much more!

The podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon Prime, Apple podcast, Audible, Overcast, Castro, Cast box and Pod friend wherever you listen.

Excited to have Lloyd D'Cruz, Ex- Program Director for Sydney Metro Integration at Sydney Trains, as our 69th guest on the Railway Transportation Systems podcast. With over 15 years in the rail industry, Lloyd has been at the forefront of transformative projects like the More Trains, More Services initiative and now leads the effort to integrate Sydney Metro into the broader Sydney Trains network.

Join us as Lloyd shares his insights on the challenges and innovations in integrating one of Australia’s largest infrastructure projects, the importance of stakeholder alignment, and the future of rail in New South Wales. Don’t miss this deep dive into the strategy and dedication behind creating a more efficient, accessible, and resilient transportation network.

🎙️ Contracts are the backbone of any successful project—they define the path to collaboration, risk management, and value creation. – Brigid Burns

We're thrilled to announce that Brigid Burns is joining us as the 68th guest on the Railway Transportation Systems podcast! 🚆

Brigid is a seasoned Commercial Consultant with over two decades of expertise in Contract Management, spanning industries such as Power, Nuclear, Government, Communications, Mining, and Rail construction. Her impressive career includes managing multi-billion-dollar projects across North and South America, with a focus on bid management, contract formation, administrative oversight, and project closeout.

In this episode, Brigid shares her insights into the importance of effective contract administration in the rail sector, strategies for optimizing financial performance, and the evolving role of innovation and sustainability in contract management.

If you're passionate about enhancing collaboration, mitigating risks, and driving successful outcomes in rail and infrastructure projects, this is an episode you don't want to miss!

"Collaboration across stakeholders is critical. The more we share knowledge and expertise, the faster we can solve the challenges facing our rail networks." – Ibrahim Fazah

We’re thrilled to welcome Ibrahim Fazah as the 67th guest on the Railway Transportation Systems podcast! With over 15 years of experience in the transport sector, Ibrahim has led game-changing projects across Australia and New Zealand, specializing in rail systems engineering, project management, and cutting-edge technology implementations.

Tune in as Ibrahim shares insights from his leadership roles at Mobility Futures, a company he co-founded, and previously at SYSTRA and Sydney Trains, where he’s been at the forefront of delivering complex rail projects and pioneering innovations like hydrogen-powered locomotives, ETCS-ATMS interoperability, the Sydney Trains Rail Operations Centre and condition monitoring systems.

Don’t miss this episode as we dive into the future of rail technology and how leaders like Ibrahim are shaping sustainable transport solutions for tomorrow! 🌍🚄

"Creating smarter mobility isn’t just about technology; it’s about transforming how passengers experience travel while driving sustainability forward." – Jan Kolar

In our 66th episode of the Railway Transportation Systems podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Jan Kolar, CEO of Passengera! 🎙️

Jan shares his visionary approach to revolutionizing public transportation through smart connectivity and infotainment solutions.

Passengera’s mission is to create a "smarter mobility" experience, where passengers travel happier, businesses thrive, and sustainability becomes a reality. 🚋🌱 Jan discusses how Passengera’s innovative technology provides seamless internet connectivity, real-time vehicle monitoring, and tailored onboard services—all without hardware replacement.

Tune in to hear Jan’s journey from pioneering Czech Railways' Pendolino train connectivity project to founding Passengera. Whether you're in rail, tech, or simply passionate about enhancing passenger experience, this episode is packed with insights on the future of connected travel! 🚀

🎧 Listen now and be part of the conversation shaping the future of transport!

The podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon Prime, Apple podcast, Stitcher, Google podcast, Audible, Overcast, Castro, Cast box and Pod friend wherever you listen.

🚆 "Success in rail projects is not just about technical excellence; it's about collaboration, foresight, and managing complexity." – Graeme Cutler

Join us for an insightful episode of the Railway Transportation Systems podcast as we welcome our 65th guest, Graeme Cutler! With over 30 years of experience in project and engineering management, Graeme has led groundbreaking projects like the Transport for New South Wales Digital Systems Program and the ETCS Level 2 Pilot Trial.

Discover Graeme's expert take on managing large-scale rail projects, the future of train control systems, and his invaluable lessons in stakeholder engagement and safety assurance. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the industry’s most seasoned professionals.

🎧 Tune in to gain exclusive insights from Graeme’s illustrious career and explore the challenges and innovations shaping the future of railway transportation.

The podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon Prime, Apple podcast, Stitcher, Google podcast, Audible, Overcast, Castro, Cast box and Pod friend wherever you listen.

"Success in rail isn't achieved alone; it's built through collaboration, innovation, and a relentless focus on improving safety and service for everyone." – Lindsay Edmonds

We’re excited to welcome Lindsay Edmonds, an accomplished leader with over 20+ years in the Rail, Electrical and Aviation Industries, as the 64th guest on the Railway Transportation Systems podcast!

Lindsay is currently the Safety, Systems and Assurance Advisor at National Intermodal, where he oversees all of the Systems and Safety Assurance activities for the development of Intermodal warehousing and logistics, mainly for Inland Rail. His extensive experience in operational readiness, risk management, safety management and crisis management in high risk industries, thus making him a pivotal figure in shaping Sydney's and more so Australia’s rail networks.

In this episode, Lindsay shares his insights into the evolution of rail safety management, the role of advanced technology, and how strong stakeholder relationships drive success. Whether you’re passionate about rail systems, systems safety or just curious about what makes efficient, sustainable transport possible, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss!

Stay tuned for thought-provoking discussions and expert perspectives as we celebrate this milestone episode with an inspiring industry leader. 🚆✨

The podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon Prime, Apple podcast, Stitcher, Google podcast, Audible, Overcast, Castro, Cast box and Pod friend wherever you listen.

"At Evertrak, we’re not just recycling plastic; we’re reinventing how railroads think about sustainability." - Tim Noonan

In this 63rd episode of Railway Transportation Systems, we sit down with Tim Noonan, the founder and CEO of Evertrak, a company driving innovation and sustainability in the railway industry. 🌱

Tim shares how Evertrak is transforming a part of the industry that hasn’t changed in over a century—railroad ties. Evertrak’s groundbreaking recycled composite ties are not only reducing plastic waste but also preventing deforestation, all while delivering high performance trusted by Class 1 railroads. 🌍♻️

Join us as we explore Tim’s mission to modernize rail infrastructure and build a more sustainable future, one tie at a time. Don’t miss it!

🎧 Listen now and discover how innovation is reshaping the rails.

The podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon Prime, Apple podcast, Stitcher, Google podcast, Audible, Overcast, Castro, Cast box and Pod friend wherever you listen.

"In complex systems, seamless integration is the key to unlocking true efficiency and reliability." - Siby Yohannan

We are thrilled to welcome Siby Yohannan as our 62nd guest on the Railway Transportation Systems podcast! 🎙️

Siby is a Chartered Professional Engineer, Certified Systems Engineering Professional, and Certified Information Security Manager with over 20 years of experience as a Systems Design Engineer. As an Associate Director at Sydney Metro, he brings invaluable insights from his work on major infrastructure projects across industries including Rail, Water, Power, Mining, and Oil & Gas.

Join us as we dive into Siby's incredible journey, exploring his expertise in Systems Engineering, Integration Management, and his innovative approach to rail systems. From commissioning and maintenance to stakeholder collaboration and advanced SCADA technologies, this episode is packed with knowledge and inspiration.

🌟 Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation! Tune in to the Railway Transportation Systems podcast and gain insights from one of the best in the industry.

The podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon Prime, Apple podcast, Stitcher, Google podcast, Audible, Overcast, Castro, Cast box and Pod friend wherever you listen.

"In rail engineering, the real challenge is not just designing the infrastructure, but ensuring that every piece fits together perfectly to create a safe and reliable system." – John Scaife

We’re thrilled to have John Scaife, Head of Engineering at Interface Rail Engineering, join us on the Railway Transportation Systems podcast! With over 25 years of experience in the rail industry, John shares his journey from London Underground to advising major rail projects across Australia.

Tune in to hear John discuss:

🔹 The challenges of transitioning between UK and Australian rail industries

🔹 The intricacies of track renewals, design management, and interface management

🔹 Key insights into technical standards, quality assurance, and safety compliance

🔹 Advice for emerging engineers aspiring to lead in the rail industry

Whether you're an industry veteran or just passionate about rail systems, this episode is packed with valuable insights!

🎧 Listen now and get inspired.

The podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon Prime, Apple podcast, Audible, Overcast, Castro, Cast box and Pod friend wherever you listen.

"Innovation in Rail signalling and systems isn't just about technology; it's about integrating people and system of systems for successful deployment and ensuring safety, enhancing operational efficiency, and compliances across the Rail Systems." — Mohan Sankarasubbu

We're thrilled to announce that our 60th episode of the Railway Transportation Systems podcast features none other than Mohan Sankarasubbu, a distinguished Technical Executive and Engineering Lead at WSP Australia with over 23 years of experience in rail signalling systems!

Mohan has been at the forefront of groundbreaking projects across the globe, working with companies like Ansaldo STS , Hitachi Rail for major RIMs like Cross River Rail, Queensland Rail, Rio Tinto, Royhill and Indian Railways. As a Fellow of the Institution of Railway Signal Engineers and a Chartered Professional Engineer, his expertise in ERTMS/ETCS, CBTC, ATP, and more is unmatched.🎙️

Join us as we delve into Mohan's journey, exploring his contributions to the industry, his approach to innovation, and what the future holds for train control systems. 🚄

The podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon Prime, Apple podcast, Stitcher, Google podcast, Audible, Overcast, Castro, Cast box and Pod friend wherever you listen.

"Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower." — Steve Jobs

🚄 Exciting Podcast Alert! 🚄

Join us on the 59th episode of the Railway Transportation Systems podcast as we welcome a true legend in the railway industry, Phil Gaffney. With over five decades of unparalleled experience, Phil has played a pivotal role in shaping modern railway systems across the globe.

From his early days at British Railways to leading transformative projects at Hong Kong MTR, and offering his expertise to major projects like Crossrail and Sydney Metro, Phil's journey is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, we delve into his key achievements, including:

🌟 The groundbreaking implementation of the Octopus Smartcard system in Hong Kong 🌟 Overseeing the successful privatization of MTR Corporation 🌟 Providing strategic advice on major international projects such as the Lantau Airport Railway and Dublin Metrolink

Phil also shares his insights on technological advancements in signaling and control systems, his leadership philosophy, and his vision for the future of global railway systems.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from one of the industry's finest! Tune in to gain valuable insights and be inspired by Phil Gaffney's incredible journey.

RailwayTransportation #Podcast #RailwayIndustry #PhilGaffney #PublicTransport #Innovation #Leadership #SmartTransit #GlobalRailways

The podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon Prime, Apple podcast, Stitcher, Google podcast, Audible, Overcast, Castro, Cast box and Pod friend wherever you listen.

"Navigating the complexities of greenfield and brownfield rail projects demands a strategic approach to design management, operational readiness, and quality assurance." – Navjot Chhabra

We're thrilled to announce that Navjot Chhabra, founder and sole director of Interface Rail Engineering (IRE), is joining us on the 58th episode of the Railway Transportation Systems podcast! 🎙️

With over 25 years of experience in managing complex rail projects across India and Australia, Navjot is a true expert in the field. He’ll be sharing invaluable insights into project management, engineering, and the intricacies of working on both greenfield and brownfield projects. 🌏

Tune in to hear about:

🔹 The evolution of Interface Rail Engineering (IRE)

🔹 Strategies for developing project scope and technical specifications

🔹 Effective design and engineering management

🔹 Risk management and operational readiness in rail projects

🔹 The future of rail engineering and project management

Don't miss this opportunity to gain knowledge from one of the industry's leading professionals.

This podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon Prime, Apple podcast, Stitcher, Google podcasts, Overcast, Castro, Cast box , Pod friend wherever you listen .

"Rolling stock is the backbone of a nation's railways, carrying not just passengers and freight, but also the hopes and aspirations of progress." – Unknown

Get ready for an engaging episode of the Railway Transportation Systems Podcast featuring our 57th guest, Norman Forde vice president , Market leader facilities and fleet , North America at Mott MacDonald.

Norman held senior positions with STV, WSP USA, and Amtrack.

Bringing over three decades of invaluable experience in the transportation industry, Norman is a seasoned leader and project manager. From overseeing multimillion-dollar projects to specializing in rolling stock, his expertise is unmatched. Join us as Norman shares insights into his journey and discusses the latest trends and challenges in railway transportation systems.

Don't miss out on this captivating conversation!

This podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon Prime, Apple podcast, Stitcher, Google podcasts, Overcast, Castro, Cast box , Pod friend wherever you listen .

"My global experience has taught me that understanding the unique challenges of each region is crucial to delivering successful rail projects, whether in maintenance, construction, or design." - Gabriel McGowan

We are excited to bring you our 56th episode of the Railway Transportation podcast! This fortnight , we have the pleasure of speaking with Gabriel McGowan, Executive Director EDA at Sydney metro , a rail industry veteran with over two decades of global experience. 🌍

Gabriel's career journey has taken him from the United Kingdom to New Zealand, Malaysia, and now Australia. With a rich background in maintenance, construction, and design within both the public and private sectors, Gabriel has a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in the rail industry.

Tune in to hear Gabriel discuss: 🚆 His career evolution and experiences across different countries 🚆 The unique challenges of rail projects in diverse regions 🚆 The impact of technology on the rail industry 🚆 Strategies for successful project delivery and sustainable development 🚆 Advice for aspiring professionals in the rail sector

Whether you're a rail enthusiast, industry professional, or someone looking to learn more about the fascinating world of rail transportation, this episode is a must-listen!

@arup@Jacobs@sinclairknightmerz@Kiwirail@bechtelcorporation@transportfor london

Don't miss out on this insightful conversation with one of the industry's leading experts! 🚄✨

RailwayTransportation #Podcast #GabrielMcGowan #RailIndustry #SustainableDevelopment #GlobalRailInsights #TransportationInnovation #CareerJourney #RailProjects #TechInRail

"Marketing is no longer about the stuff that you make, but about the stories you tell." – Seth Godin

Join us on our 55th Railway Transportation Systems Podcast for a riveting conversation on the future of railway marketing and business with Joanne Morley, Head of Marketing at Razore Secure.

Joanne has a passion for marketing and a commitment to growing and developing teams and businesses. With 30 years of experience in marketing across corporate, consultancy, agency, B2B, and B2C sectors, she has seen and achieved it all—the good, the bad, and the downright ugly. Her journey has provided her with invaluable lessons and insights, and with a mission to share her wealth of knowledge about marketing, leadership, and mindset, she aims to help individuals and businesses thrive and achieve outstanding growth.

Beyond marketing, Joanne is dedicated to making a difference as the Chair for Project Six, a drugs and alcohol charity, and she also mentors and coaches other marketers.

Don't miss this insightful episode as Joanne shares her expertise and experiences in marketing, leadership, and the railway industry. Tune in to learn from her journey and discover strategies to propel your business forward!

RailwayPodcast #MarketingLeadership #cybersecurity #RailwayIndustry #CompassionateLeadership #HighPerformanceTeams #GrowthStrategies #RazoreSecure #JoanneMorley #RailwayTransportationSystems

"Managing railway assets is like conducting a symphony; every component must work in harmony to create a smooth and reliable journey." - Unknown

🚂 Exciting Announcement! Join us on our 54th Railway Transportation systems podcast for a riveting conversation on the future of railway asset management with Stephanie Klecha, Chartered Engineer and Director of Products – Transport at PA consulting 🎙️

Stephanie brings over 15 years of expertise in revolutionizing asset management within the rail industry, driving innovation and shaping strategic initiatives that redefine how assets are monitored, maintained, and optimized. From her early days at Rolls Royce , MRX Technologies and Porterbrook, Stephanie has been at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge digital technologies to enhance efficiency and performance across rolling stock and infrastructure.

In this exclusive podcast episode, Stephanie delves into her journey from studying Aerospace Materials Science at Imperial College London to becoming a trailblazer in digital services for the rail sector, with a focus on maximizing asset value and minimizing downtime. She shares invaluable insights into overcoming challenges, securing buy-in from stakeholders, and achieving tangible results through agile project management and strategic vision.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain valuable insights into the future of railway asset management from one of the industry's leading experts. Tune in to the podcast now and stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of transportation technology! 🎧🚄 #RailwayAssetManagement #DigitalTransformation #AssetOptimization #Imperialcollegelondon #RailIndustryInsights

"Railway freight trains serve as the lifeblood of industry, infusing vitality into the arteries of commerce." - John Locomotive, Industrialist and Visionary

🚆 Join us for an exclusive 53rd episode focusing on Railway Freight with Maggie Simpson, Director General at Rail Freight Group. Tune in to gain insights from her journey navigating the dynamic intersection of business and technology in the transportation industry, with a special emphasis on global rail freight and her initiatives in the UK. Learn valuable lessons along the way as she shares her passion for leadership and collaboration, shaping the future of the industry. Don't miss out – mark your calendars and join us for an enlightening conversation!

PodcastGuest #Leadership #Business #Technology #Collaboration #Railway #FreightTrains

"The true measure of progress in transportation lies in our ability to ensure reliability, maintainability, and safety – for every journey, for every passenger. RAMS is the silent guardian of our shared mobility future." - Oprah Winfrey

🚂 All Aboard! Welcome to 52nd Episode on "Railway Insights," your go-to podcast for an inside look at railway transportation! 🌍

🎉 Exciting news! Our special guest today is Mr. Daniele Diana, a RAMS expert with over 20 years of experience, currently making waves at WSP UK! 🚀

🔧 As a Chartered Electrical Engineer, Mr. Diana is the authority on international railway RAMS standards, from EN 50126-x to MIL-STD-756B, covering everything from Reliability Engineering to safety integrity. 📚

🛤️ Join us as he spills insights into RAMS standards, safety requirements, and the fascinating world of railway transportation. This is your ticket to an exclusive discussion with an industry luminary who's been shaping RAMS standards for over a decade! 🌟

RailwayInsights #Podcast #RAMS #Transportation#Railways#safetyassurance

"In the journey towards progress, the safety of every individual is paramount. Railways, as a vital part of our infrastructure, must be a symbol of reliability and security for all those who depend on them." – Michelle Obama

🚆 Join Us for a Special 51st Episode on Railway Safety with Paul Appleton, HM Deputy Chief Inspector of Railways at ORR! 🎙️

🌟 Highlights:

Paul's Inspiring Journey: Discover what inspired Paul to dedicate his career to railway safety.
ORR's Safety Solutions: Learn how ORR addresses current safety challenges in the railway industry.
Future of Safety with Technology: Explore the impact of AI, IoT, and automation on railway safety.
Collaboration and Innovation: Understand how ORR collaborates with stakeholders and balances innovation with safety.
Success Stories: Hear about innovative safety measures improving railway operations.
Continuous Training and Education: Find out the role of ongoing training in ensuring staff competency and enhancing safety protocols.
Emergency Preparedness: Learn about initiatives to improve passenger safety during emergencies.
Proactive Safety Measures: Understand how ORR stays ahead in anticipating and mitigating potential safety hazards.
Future Developments: Gain insights into the significant advancements in railway safety envisioned by Paul.
Key Messages for Aspiring Professionals: Don't miss Paul's advice for those aiming to contribute to global railway safety.

RailwayCybersecurity #KnorrBremse #IndustryInsights #InnovationInRail

"In the pursuit of excellence, safety should never be compromised. It is the foundation upon which lasting success is built." - Warren Buffett

🚄 Exciting Announcement! Join us as we extend a warm welcome to Andy Petrie, Director and Divisional Manager SESA at Arch Artifex, who will be sharing invaluable insights in our upcoming 50th episode of Railway Transportation Systems.

In his current role, Andy oversees a diverse portfolio of multi-million-dollar engagements, leading a dedicated team across multiple states. With a background in major project and operational roles, he brings extensive expertise in systems, assets, and transport operations. Andy has made substantial contributions to high-hazard industries, including civil construction, nuclear, oil & gas, aviation, and more, specializing in risk analysis to inform evidence-based decision-making, particularly in ensuring public safety.

Beyond his present responsibilities, Andy boasts an impressive track record, having held key positions in renowned organizations such as Transport for NSW, Network Rail Consulting, Transport for London, Tube Lines, and more. His contributions have played a pivotal role in enhancing safety and assurance standards within the rail and transportation industry.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain insights from a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in ensuring safety and excellence in rail transportation.

RailwayTransportation #SafetyAssurance #IndustryInsights #Podcast #AndyPetrie #ArchArtifex 🚆

"The strength of a chain is defined by its weakest link. Likewise, the resilience of a nation's transportation infrastructure lies in the cybersecurity measures embedded in its railway systems." - Barack Obama

🚄 Exciting News! Join us in welcoming Lola Fernandez, a cybersecurity expert at Knorr-Bremse Rail Vehicle, sharing insights this fortnight on our 49th Railway Transportation systems episode.

🌐 Key Points:

Lola leads OT Cybersecurity Governance at Knorr-Bremse, shaping Secure Development Lifecycle and incident response.

Achieved CMMI Level 2, leveraging experience for cybersecurity guideline development.

Active contributor to international cybersecurity standards.

Balancing software development, cybersecurity, and global collaborations for cohesive strategies.

💡 Join the Conversation:

Ask Lola about proactive cybersecurity measures, supply chain security, incident response, and her views on the future of railway cybersecurity.

Stay tuned for invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of railway cybersecurity!

"In the world of leadership, your role is not to drive the bus, but to inspire and guide the passengers towards a common destination." - Simon Sinek

🚂 Exciting News Alert! 🎙️ Join us on the 48th episode of the Railway Transportation Systems Podcast as we dive deep into the dynamic world of rail with none other than Pascal Dupond, the Managing Director of Alstom Australia and New Zealand. 🌏

With over 30 years of leadership experience, Pascal takes us on a journey through the intricacies of projects, business development, and people management in the aerospace, offshore, and rail industries. His 28-year tenure at Alstom is a testament to his commitment to results, accountability, and motivation.

🌟 Don't miss this exclusive conversation where Pascal shares his insights on the future of rail, sustainable infrastructure, and the importance of fostering a culture of teamwork. 🌐

Tune in now to gain valuable perspectives from a true industry trailblazer!

🚄 Exciting Announcement! 🚄

Dear Railway Enthusiasts,

We're thrilled to invite you to the captivating 47th episode of our Railway Transportation Systems podcast, featuring the esteemed Andy Byford, Senior Vice President for High-Speed Rail Development at Amtrak! 🎙️

With a career spanning over three decades and continents, Andy's inspiring journey, from a uniformed Station Foreman to overseeing North America's largest transit systems, is a testament to his remarkable expertise. 🌍

🔍 Highlights:

Commencing his career at London Underground in 1989, progressing to become the General Manager of the Bakerloo, Central, and Victoria Lines.

Serving as the Chief Operating Officer of Australia's largest railway network in Sydney.

Leading the Toronto Transit Commission in Canada and acting as the President of New York City Transit, managing the busiest transit system in North America.

Playing a pivotal role in the financial rebuilding and successful opening of major projects like the Elizabeth Line.

🌟 Andy Byford's strategic leadership has guided organizations through challenges, including the pandemic, establishing him as a thought leader in high-speed rail development.

Join us for an in-depth exploration of the insights, challenges, and future prospects of high-speed rail development with this seasoned professional. Don't miss the chance to glean valuable knowledge from a true trailblazer in the field!

"In the age of smart transportation, cybersecurity is the seatbelt for the digital journey." - Elon Musk

I'm thrilled to announce 46th Railway Transportation Systems special episode on incredible Alzbeta "Betty" Helienek, a distinguished Cyber Security specialist with a wealth of experience in the transport sector!

🚄 Join us as Betty shares her journey, insights, and expert advice on navigating the complex intersection of cybersecurity and railway transportation systems. From her role as Cyber Security Capability Lead at WSP to her involvement in the UK’s Cyber Security Council formation project, Betty brings a wealth of knowledge and thought leadership to the discussion.

🌐 Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of cybersecurity in the transportation industry. Whether you're a cybersecurity enthusiast, a transport professional, or simply curious about the future of intelligent transport systems, this episode is a must-listen.

Cybersecurity #TransportationSystems #Podcast #ThoughtLeadership #CyberResilience #IndustryInsights #BettyHelienek #ExclusiveInterview 🎧✨

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world “– Nelson Mandela

🚂 Exciting Episode Alert! 🎙️ Join us on the 45th Railway Transportation Systems Podcast for an insightful conversation with Pam and Paul Martin, the dynamic duo behind PM Training & Assessing! 🌐 With 15+ years of expertise, they're revolutionizing railway training and assessments.

🌱 Explore their unique perspective as both trainers and assessors, ensuring top-notch quality and continuous improvement. Learn about IQA, core values, and success stories shaping the agency.

🔮 Envision the future as PM Training & Assessing aims to be the 'Harvard' of rail training, contributing to a safe and efficient global railway.

🌍 Learn about PM Training & Assessing's global impact, providing assessments abroad and adapting to video assessments for diverse categories.

🚀 Get valuable advice from industry leaders for those aspiring to build a career in railway training and assessment.

🌐 Stay tuned for PM Training & Assessing's upcoming project—buying a company to deliver rail engineering apprenticeships, addressing the shortage of skilled engineers.

🔮 Envision the future of PM Training & Assessing as they aspire to be the 'Harvard' of rail training, contributing to a safe and efficient railway worldwide.

Don't miss this riveting episode—tune in now! 🎧

"Systems engineering is orchestrating complexity with precision and creativity – Unknown”.

"Greetings, rail enthusiasts! You're tuning in to the 44th episode of Railway Transportation Systems. We're thrilled today to feature a true industry luminary, Malaeka Nadeem, the Director of Systems Engineering and Assurance at Sydney Metro. A catalyst for change, Malaeka is at the forefront of engineering evolution, driving change management, and implementing FRACAS for proactive system analysis. And for our listeners seeking a deeper dive, don't miss Malaeka Nadeem's article on Model-Based Systems Engineering. It's a compelling case study you can find at

https://incose.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/j.2334-5837.2020.00805.x

Human Systems Engineering is Crafting a future where technology harmonizes seamlessly with the human experience." – unknown.

🚂 Exciting News in Railways and Transportation! 🌟 Join us for Episode 43 as we chat with Sue Milner, Principal Consultant of Acmena, a true expert in Human Systems Engineering. 🎙️ Explore untold stories, challenges, and Sue's inspiring journey in the ever-evolving world of engineering. 🌐 Don't miss this insightful episode on ergonomics, safe engineering, and promoting diversity in the field. Tune in now for a treat! 🚀 #TransportationInnovation #EngineeringExcellence #HumanSystemsEngineering 🎧

🌟 Exciting News! 🌟 Join us for our 42nd episode with Lucia Capogna, a seasoned Technical Lead with 15+ years in Computer Science and System Engineering. An expert in Railway Cyber Security, Lucia excels in standards like IEC 62433 and TS 50701. She brings solid professional standards and proficiency in tools to the table. Don't miss this engaging discussion on software engineering and cybersecurity! 👥 #TechLeadership #CyberSecurity #PodcastAlert

"By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail." — Benjamin Franklin
🌟 Exciting News! 🌟 Join us for our 41st episode featuring Sherrie Killiby, Executive Director at Transport for NSW. A true polymath, Sherrie's expertise in digital product development, technology strategy, and agile transformations has left a mark at Canon, Coca-Cola, and more. Recognized as a Telstra Businesswoman of the Year finalist in 2020, Sherrie's 13-year journey with Transport for NSW adds a unique perspective to shaping future transportation strategies. Don't miss this chance to gain insights from a dynamic leader!

Join us this fortnight for our 40th Episode as we chat with Dr. Neil Henderson, a transportation expert with a remarkable 24-year career at Mott MacDonald. He played a pivotal role in the UK Crossrail project, now the Elizabeth line, and is currently the Key Account Director for Europe's largest infrastructure project, High Speed 2.

Neil's leadership focuses on collaboration, innovation, and diversity in the industry. He tailors experiences, drives sustainable transport solutions, and sets new standards in the global transport sector. Tune in for insights from this industry leader! 👏 #TransportationExpert #InnovationLeader #DiversityChampion #PodcastInterview.

Join us for Episode 39 with Adam Sharp, Service Delivery Director, and Co-Founder at Toustone. He's a Decision Intelligence expert, optimizing transportation and logistics across the Asia Pacific. Adam's data-driven insights empower transport leaders to take proactive actions, using machine learning to forecast outcomes. Don't miss this industry-shaping episode! 🚚💡

DecisionIntelligence #TransportationOptimization.

🎙️ Join us for the 38th episode of the RTS Podcast! 🎧

With nearly three decades at Mott MacDonald, David's journey epitomizes dedication and excellence. From Technical Director to Senior Vice President and Strategic Market Leader for Transit and Urban Mobility, his rise is truly inspiring. Tune in to explore his leadership in shaping the future of North American transit and urban mobility.

If you're looking for insights, inspiration, and a fascinating career journey, this podcast episode is a must-listen. Join us in celebrating David Wright's remarkable achievements and his ongoing commitment to Mott MacDonald. 🚀

"Let’s manage safety by recognizing how humans are and stop managing safety the way we wish humans were.”
🎙️ Join us for the 37th episode of the RTS Podcast! 🎧

Meet Brandt Clifford, a distinguished Principal Consultant renowned for his expertise in Human Factors, safety, and engineering. With an unwavering commitment to a person-centered approach, Brandt is a proactive leader adept at strategic decision-making and service provision.

His journey is marked by catalyzing safety enhancements, driving transformative changes in diverse sectors, and harmonizing human well-being with system safety. Brandt's innovation and impactful leadership continue to shape the landscape of Human Factors and Safety Engineering. Don't miss this episode! 🌟

Step into a world of captivating insights with the 36th episode of the RTS Podcast! We're thrilled to introduce an extraordinary guest, Esther De La Cruz, Founder and Change Leadership Specialist at Esther De La Cruz. Hailing from Australia, Esther shines as a luminary in the realm of change management.

Esther's laser focus on core principles like transparency, trust-building, and cohesive teamwork ignites collaborative workspaces that stand strong in the face of change. She's taken the art of embracing change to new heights, making it not just smoother but even enjoyable.

Esther's expertise transcends industries and borders. With an impressive portfolio spanning Healthcare, Infrastructure, Financial Services, Airlines, Government, Medical Device Sterilisation, and Tourism, she's uncovered a universal truth: the keys to effective change management remain unshakable, regardless of industry intricacies or organizational size.

Join us on an expedition as we delve into riveting subjects. This episode shines a spotlight on Change Management and Leadership, with Esther De La Cruz as our guide through a labyrinth of insights and wisdom. Get ready for an enriching journey into the depths of transformational leadership and the art of navigating change.

Shiv Mohan, a highly esteemed Maintenance Director at ALSTOM Dubai Tram.

Shiv specializes in the realm of Operations and Maintenance, consistently showcasing his outstanding abilities in effectively managing the life cycles of products and projects. Notably, his exceptional skill in navigating software-intensive systems positions him as an invaluable asset in the contemporary railway sector.

Drawing from an impressive tenure in the railway industry, Shiv brings a treasure trove of expertise and professional acclaim to the forefront. Holding the designation of a chartered engineer from the Engineering Council UK and a Fellowship with the Institute of Railway Signal Engineers, he enjoys widespread recognition for his technical prowess.

Embark on a journey with us as we delve into a variety of topics, including RAMS, safety, reliability, operations, and maintenance. Together, we will explore the profound insights and vast expertise of Shiv Mohan.

Dr. Emma Taylor, Head of Digital Safety at Razor Secure, as our esteemed guest.

Emma is currently at the forefront of merging cyber and safety measures, within the framework of regulatory and standards programmes, enabled by government-funded research. Her distinguished career boasts a strong track record in managing stakeholders and clients across diverse sectors, including NGOs, government, and commercial entities. She provides adept leadership in technical, commercial, and operational realms, showcasing expertise in risk management, compliance, and implementation through dynamic teams and networks. Her experience extends to board-level roles and navigating turnarounds.

Beyond her professional achievements, Emma is an engaging and innovative mentor who bridges generational and industrial gaps, catering to the specific needs of her mentees. She is committed to enhancing social mobility for all and actively leverages her award-winning profile to support this cause.

Join us in exploring topics ranging from rail and cyber security to solutions, safety, sustainability, and critical infrastructure, as we delve into Emma's insights and expertise.

Patrick Youle, Director Safety Assurance (Technical), Axess Advisory, Sydney.

Patrick started his career as an Avionics Systems Engineer in British Aerospace Defence Ltd, Later he worked as a Senior Engineer in Mott Macdonald, UK. In 2001 he worked as a Head of Rail Telecoms in Owen Willaims Railways. In 2006, he started as working as Project Safety Manager in Rio tinto and later worked in many organizations like Delta Rail, Anasaldo STS, MRX Technologies, Stanway Consulting Limited, PKY Associates, Ricardo Rail & Systra Scott Lister. In 201, Patrick started his company called Axess Advisory.

Patrick is a chartered Engineer with 30 years’ experience of Engineering Safety Management (ESM), Rail Telecommunications and Safety Assurance in the UK and Australia. Patrick has working knowledge of safety standards and guidelines including 'Yellow Book', iESM, European CSM, CENELEC EN 50126/8/9, 50159), international (IEC 61508 and ISO 31000), LUL and UK Network Rail standards. Equally familiar with Australian rail safety legislation and standards through roles in WA, NSW, Queensland and Victoria.

Patrick is a Qualified rail telecoms engineer (member of the IRSE by examination). Patrick is familiar with the different technologies and applications (operational and non-operational) employed on the railways including lineside telephony, radio, telephone concentrators, exchanges, transmission (including SDH), TDM systems, SCADA data links, passenger information systems, public address systems, CCTV and station clocks.

Louise Howard, Director of Loise Howard Advisory, Sydney.Louise joined as a Sales Manager in May 2006 in Macquarie University and Later after completing her Master of science in Occupational Health and Safety from University of Wollongong, Louise joined as National Injury Management & Safety consultant in April 2011. Later she worked in many safety executive roles in Power Serve, Sydney Trains, Transport for NSW and Sydney Metro. Louise worked as Executive Director Engineering, Design and Assurance in Sydney Metro. Louise is the Director Board of Directors in Australian Institute of Health & Safety and Audit & Risk Committee Member in Western Sydney University.

Louise is an influential leader supported by many advanced qualifications in multiple disciplines including Business, Work Health and Safety & Science. Louise got an ample of experience in large scale, billion-dollar infrastructure project delivery encompassing civil, rail and electrical projects. Louise got an ability to navigate complex and fast-paced environments to deliver exceptional results. Louise is a progressive people orientated leader who possess an effective ability to communicate with a flexible, collaborative, and inclusive approach.

Mark Quintana, Director of Business Operations, Pure Advisory.

Mark commenced his recruitment career in 2000 at Hays in the United
Kingdom, steadily advancing to a management position. After accumulating
six years of experience in the UK, an opportunity arose for Mark to take on a
senior management role in Sydney. In 2007, he received an offer from a start-
up engineering recruitment business aiming to establish a revenue stream in
the rail industry. Following a successful tenure, Mark made the decision in
2009 to establish his own rail recruitment company, which later integrated into
a newly co-founded firm named Tactix—a prominent rail engineering
consultancy.
In 2016, Mark initiated Pure Advisory, driven by a vision to introduce an agile
business model that could effectively support Australia's transport and energy
sectors with specialist professionals on a secondment basis. However, in
2017, due to family reasons, he relocated back to the UK. During this time,
Mark formed a partnership with a thriving rail systems business, playing a
pivotal role in expanding their local and international presence in the
Australian market. In 2021, Mark returned to Sydney, fully engaged in
furthering the growth of Pure Advisory as a niche engineering consultancy.
Currently serving as the Director of Operations at Pure Advisory, Mark is
actively involved in supporting the Transport and Energy sectors by providing
systems engineering, safety assurance, human factors, environmental, and
commercial advisory services to projects throughout Australia.
With over 22+ years of experience in senior business development and
leadership roles, Mark has consistently demonstrated his expertise in driving
innovation, showcasing leadership, crafting compelling service propositions,
and fostering enduring client relationships. His remarkable journey in the
industry reflects his profound impact on various companies and sectors,
utilizing his wealth of experience to contribute to their growth and success.

Our guest for this fortnight is Alana Newbrook, CEO & Managing Director of Systra, ANZ

Alana started her professional career in 2002 as a graduate engineer in Caltex Australia and later worked as Project Engineer in Morre consulting and Engineering, where she is responsible for designing solutions for clients in the petrochemical industry. In 2007, Alana joined in WSP as a project manager and later worked in various roles like Project controls manager, Project services Executive, Director, and Regional Director.

Alana as an engineer, love working in infrastructure on major projects with big impacts. She has over 20 years’ experience working across transport, Defence, water, mining, oil and gas, power and environment. Alana is passionate about STEM skills and providing access to everyone for a fulfilling career in engineering and consulting. Alana is a Fellow of Engineers Australia and Chartered Professional Engineer and Engineering Executive. She is also a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD).

James Dalton is General Manager at Australian Railway Historical Society. The ARHS recently celebrated its 90th birthday, and as well as publishing both Railway Digest and Australian Railway History magazines, is home to the most comprehensive private archive of railway-related information in Australia.

As General Manager, James is responsible for managing a small team of amazing staff and volunteers who keep the Society, which does not receive any external funding, financially viable through magazine and book sales, consulting work, operating tours and producing various publications.

The archives were recently assessed to be of National Significance. They include a vast collection of documents, photographs, and artifacts related to the history of railways in Australia. Much of the collection is already digitised, thanks to the efforts of volunteers over decades. James is committed to expanding the use of these archives to members and commercial clients and to supporting the objectives of the Australian Railway Historical Society.

Under James' leadership, The Railway Archives has made significant strides in preserving and promoting the history of railways in Australia. He has developed new processes and implemented systems for cataloguing the archives, making them more accessible to researchers and enthusiasts. He has also worked to expand the Society's membership and outreach efforts, raising awareness of the importance of archival preservation and the Society's mission.

Mark Scott – a career investor, director and executive manager of consulting businesses that have straddled many industries, including rail and transportation.

Mark is currently Chairman and founding partner of both Think Systems and Investructure, and serves on the Board as a Director of Providence Consulting. All are consulting businesses, with a different but broad array of offerings, from project, program and commercial delivery, to engineering, integration and assurance. Mark is also a non-executive director of Toustone, a data analytics business that has developed an array of AI based “decision intelligence” solutions for the rail and transport sector, amongst others.

As well as his recent roles with these companies, Mark has founded and managed multiple start-ups, including Scott Lister and Bluefield Consulting, which were later acquired by SYSTRA and Lloyd’s Register respectively. Post-acquisition, Mark was CEO of SYSTRA in ANZ for six years and General Manager of Lloyd’s Register’s Transport business for three years. Consequently, despite still being the tender age of 47, he has been running consulting businesses for almost 20 years!

Mark is passionate about creating businesses that present opportunities to employees and offer real value to clients. In his words, “the two are inextricably linked”.

Our guest for this fortnight is Atul Rastogi, Program Planning Manager at Sydney Trains.

Atul started his professional career in 1992 in the Department of Signal Engineers in Indian Railways and later worked as Deputy Chief Signal and Telecom Engineer, he held a number of management positions in the diverse fields of engineering management, project management, and maintenance management for railway signalling and telecom network in Indian Railways. Atul moved to Australia in 2008 to continue his passion working in Railways as Senior Project Engineer in Ansaldo later he worked as Project Director in Ansaldo. He joined in Sydney Trains in 2016 as Program Planning Manager.

Atul has 30 years international experience of program and engineering management in rail signalling and control systems field working for large sized organisations. Atul is well versed in the following Program, Portfolio and Project Management, Engineering Management, Risk Management, Bid, tender and contract management, Customer and Stakeholder Management. And Network Maintenance Management

Bassam Mansour Project Director at HSS Engineers Bhd delivering KVMRT, Line 2, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Bassam started his professional career with British Railway Board (BRB) in the eighties as an Electrification Engineer working on 750V d.c and 25KV Channel Tunnel Electrification and has occupied some prominent positions like as a senior Manager in Dockland Light Rail in the UK, London Underground, Bosphorous crossing in Turkey, Dublin Area Transit System in Ireland , Japan Railway Technical Services in Tokyo , Delhi Metro in India , General Director for Dubai Metro , Director of Engineering at Roads Transport Authority and Advisor for UAE Government on Railways. Bassam published many technical papers and performed hundreds of presentations on railways.

Bassam has done his Engineering degree in Engineering at Manchester University, and Master of Business Administration at Westminster University from the UK, Bassam comes with 36 years of industrial experience working in the entire “V” cycle of Engineering from Concept to Completion, operation and maintenance. He is a Fellow at Institution of Engineering and Technology and Institution of Railway Signal Engineers.

Sunail Husnain, Senior Program Manager at Sydney Trains.

Sunail started his professional career in Railways in 1994 in Pakistan Railways. He worked as Divisional Permanent Way Engineer to construct, maintain and operation of one of the eight Railways Divisions in Pakistan. Sunail moved to Australia to work as project manager in Queensland Rail and later worked as Senior Project Engineer in Ansaldo, Perth. In 2015 he moved to Sydney to join Sydney Trains as a Senior Program Manager.

Sunail has 30 years of experience of Infrastructure delivery management in Railways. Sunail is a strong advocate of transit oriented integrated development and creating customer and operator friendly infrastructure. Sunail is a Chartered Professional Engineer with Fellowship in Engineers Australia and National Engineering Register (NER) for leadership and civil engineering. Sunail is also a PhD researcher and consultant at ANU - Working closely with renowned Economists of CSIRO, Flinders, ANU and UNESCO.

Andrew Howey, Chief Strategy Officer in Interface Rail Engineering in Melbourne.

Andrew started his professional career in 1986 as a Computer Programmer in MiTek Industries and later worked as Team Leader in Telstra. His Professional Railway Journey kicked in 1998 as a Deputy Project Manager in Bombardier Transportation. Andrew held Key roles as Managing Director for Invensys Rail in Australia & New Zealand, Vice President in Siemens Mobility, Project Director in Alstom for Melbourne Airport Rail Link.

Andrew has extensive experience in the management of innovative business including full P&L responsibility, with significant expertise in the implementation of growth strategies, business transformation, marketing, business development, PPPs, bid management and project management. Throughout his Rail career Andrew delivered many complex Rail projects in Australia. Andrew is also a professional basketball player.

Sudhanshu Mani Independent Rail consultant , Sudhanshu Mani retired in the apex grade of GoI from the Indian Railways (IR) Service of Mechanical Engineering as General Manager, Integral Coach Factory, Chennai after serving IR for 38 years.

S. Mani is not just a consultant, but a multi-talented individual who is involved in a multitude of activities. He serves on the advisory and editorial board of leading railway and metro journals, showcasing his expertise in the field. He is also a speaker and panelist at various prestigious conferences such as IIMs, IITs, TEDx, PMI, and CII, where he shares his knowledge and insights with others.

Apart from his professional engagements, he is also passionate about promoting art and culture. He runs a not-for-profit art and culture center called Manis and is associated with a prominent art gallery in Lucknow. He is also the president of Rolling Cars' Society, which promotes technical awareness.

His opinions on national issues related to engineering and project management are regularly published in leading newspapers, journals, and portals such as Hindu BusinessLine, Deccan Herald, Moneycontrol, PSUWatch, FPJ, IRJ, and Pioneer. Additionally, he writes on a variety of subjects such as art, literature, and current affairs in his personal blog.

Overall, Mani is a multi-faceted personality who excels in his professional and personal engagements, making a significant impact in his field of expertise and beyond.

Kumar is the Director of OT Cyber Security at Sydney Metro.

He has over twelve years of experience as a translator of security risks to the business, and he holds diversified exposure across multiple domains, including transportation, energy, technology & finance. He has assisted clients on a wide range of matters across the cybersecurity defence lifecycle, from identifying security needs to investigating and fixing compromises.

Kumar started his professional career in 2007 as a system and security administrator. He then pursued his post-graduation in Information security and Cyber Laws from the Indian Institute of Information Technology. Over the years, he has implemented approaches to blend cybersecurity as part of system engineering to deliver large-scale industrial systems. He also advocates for ‘secure by design’ of critical infrastructure central to everyday life and has contributed to developing industrial cybersecurity guidelines for standards organizations.

Kumar is an ISA (International Society of Automation)-certified IEC 62443 risk, system design specialist, and a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).

Our guest for this fortnight is Stephen Lemon Director Rail at Providence T&I.

Stephen started his professional career in 1986 as a S&T Trainee Technician in British Rail and later worked as S&T Manager, Senior Engineer, Principal Manager, Professional Head of signalling and control systems in Sydney Trains and Program Director Digital Systems in Transport for NSW.

Stephen has immense experience after working in different roles in his career. Stephen is well known as a people’s leader who worked in both public & private sector in rail network and systems strategy and development in Australia and the UK. Stephen is a Chartered Professional Engineer and Engineering Executive specialising in systems thinking and a passionate advocate for the use of technology and innovation to achieve integrated, sustainable, and customer-centred outcomes.

Jahangir Shaik, He is a Systems Assurance Manager working in the middle east and worked on some great projects like Doha Metro, Riyadh Metro.

Jahangir started his professional career in 1997 as a Software Engineer with a Degree in Mechanical Engineering and worked on product development based on world renowned Systems Scientist Mr. John N Warfield’s Systems Science.

His Professional Journey with Railway Project kicked off in 2004 with ERTMS Level-2 Amsterdam-Utretcht , Since then he has been working in Rail Systems in different capacities in various countries attaining several accreditations in his professional journey , he is honoured to have contributed in the success of FIFA World Cup 2022 and celebrate the Availability demonstration during the best Football world cup tournament of the century.

Dr. Andrew Hussey, Director Regional RAMS – Asia Pacific at Hitachi. Andrew is an experienced systems and RAMS expert with over 25 years’ experience in the railway transport and control systems industries. As well as being a technical specialist in the areas of systems, RAM, Safety and software engineering, Andrew also has extensive experience in line management roles, both within project and organisational structures. He has a keen appreciation of the operational and safety criticality of railway signalling systems, and of the role he plays in ensuring that those qualities are achieved.

Previously, Andrew was employed by Invensys Group in Brisbane as a V&V engineer and then Development engineer.

Andrew has a strong academic background and worked as a Research Fellow at the University of Queensland, conducting research and technology transfer to industry partners in the Software and Safety domains

David is an internationally recognised developer of global minded and engaging leaders, teams and organisations. For 25 years David has worked with organisations across a wide variety of industries in the areas of culture change, engagement, multi-national collaboration, M&A cultural alignment, business transformation, global project kick offs, and leadership coaching/development. In this time, he has successfully delivered these initiatives across many countries including Germany, France, Portugal, Poland, Slovakia, Romania, Italy, Finland, United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, UAE, Qatar, India, Nigeria, Singapore, Hong Kong, the United States, Peru and South Africa

David strongly believes in Company culture is the backbone of any successful organization, and thinks No company, small or large, can win over the long run without energized employees who believe in the mission and understand how to achieve it.

Vijay is an Engineering Graduate from the Birla Institute of Technology Ranchi, India. He started his professional career over 35 years ago. He is an Electronics & Communication Engineer with over 33 years of Railway engineering experience and Management of Rail-based Transport System.

Vijay is a visionary, strategic, collaborative and purpose driven leader with a track record of growing and providing professional services of Railway system with a valuable combination of leading Strategy, Business Transformation, and organisational change experience

Thijs is an experienced Systems Integration leader. His main professional experience is the North South Metro line in Amsterdam that went into revenue service in 2018, where he was responsible for systems integration. After that Thijs joined the Digital Systems Program in Sydney, first as Integration Director and later as Project Director. Earlier this year he left Australia to return to The Netherlands, his home country.

Thijs now supports various large projects and programmes in applying a systems approach to delivery. Having been part of projects that have struggled significantly because of lack of integration, his personal mission now is to help major programs improve their performance by placing systems thinking at the core of their strategy.

Frank Heibel, commonly known as Doc Frank, a very well-known consultant, trainer and conference speaker in the field of railway signalling.

Born and raised in Germany, Frank has a Master degree and Doctorate from the Technical University Berlin and since then he has been in the signalling industry for over 30 years. After 20 years of working for various global suppliers, Frank moved to the client side as a consultant for advanced signalling such as CBTC and ETCS, and has worked for landmark projects in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth.

Since 2014, Doc Frank has become a brand name for providing training courses on CBTC and later ETCS, his famous “Kickstarter” trainings for railway professionals with or without prior signalling knowledge.

Frank lives in Perth close to the Sunset Coast of Western Australia.

Robbert Burns is commissioning Director at Crosslinx Transit Solutions. Toronto, Canada. Robbie is leading in commissioning activities of Rail systems where CTS has been selected by Infrastructure Ontario and Metrolinx to deliver the Eglinton Crosstown Light Rail Transit Project. Robbie is a graduate of the London underground signalling Apprenticeship scheme graduating in 1996.He started his professional career in 1992 as Trainee Technician with Transport for London. He worked across the globe and brings 30+ years of experience to transport industry

Tony started his career with railways as a Relief Train recorder in Signal boxes in 1979, He has worked in numerous executive roles like Deputy Chief operating Officer, Olympic preparation manager for London Olympics, Chief Operating Officer, Executive Director Future Network Delivery, Chairman of the International Suburban Benchmarking Rail Group & Chief Executive of State Transit Authority of NSW. Tony is recipient of two Premiers Awards for his exceptional work in delivering complex rail projects. Tony had visited several Transport Agencies and railways across the world to examine benchmarking best practice. He comes with wealth of world practice knowledge in the transport industry from a customer, operational and engineering perspective

Steve Allday Executive General Manager at Allday Rail consultancy services, Steve started his professional carrier in 1971 with academic Degree in Engineering from university of Cambridge.

Steve demonstrably experienced and energetic hands-on leader with a successful record of delivering in both Private and Public Sector Operations and in all aspects of Rail and Intermodal Transportation. Working at Executive and Senior Management Levels have a history of successfully delivering critical projects.

Andy is Founder and Director of NSW Country Safety Risk Services, the only wholly owned regionally based company specialising in Safety, Quality, Risk and Engineering Assurance. Based in the Riverina and servicing regionally based projects and businesses since 2022.

Andy Started his professional career in 1979 with British Rail, Andy was in senior Management roles specialising in Engineering Safety and Assurance he was former senior Executive Manager with Transport For NSW.

Andy loves art and passionate about community service. His Journey from being a professional to community service especially in the regional areas, ups and downs in personal life will definitely touch your hearts.

Pete Church, Head of Rail Delivery for Transport for NSW. Pete gained a Bachelor of Civil Engineering from the University of Leeds, before staying on to study for a Phd in Surveying and Photogrammetry. After quitting his Phd (about half way through), he stumbled into a job in British Rail. He worked in several areas including Bridge Design and Permanent Way, before moving into Client side management of complex railway projects. After nearly twenty years in the UK he headed to Australia, where he’s led the delivery of some interesting and diverse transport projects including Wynyard Walk, B-Line, Barangaroo Ferry Hub as well as some familiar rail projects!

The Ninth Episode of our Railway Transportation Systems (RTS) Podcast in now available! Tara Kazi Human Factors Specialist at Sydney Metro.

Tara started her professional carrier in 2000 as a fellow consultant with Ergonomics Research group, Tara has done Psychology in her graduation and Human centred Computer systems as her Master Degree both from university of Sussex and a PhD in Human factors with her thesis on drivers level of trust in adaptive – cruise - control and conceptual models from university of Brunel.
Tara talks exclusively on Human Factors contribution in Rail and also touches on subtle issues like vulnerability and shame, she highlights how your professional life can impact your personal life and advises how to deal with this.

Wayne Cooney, the Principal Systems Integration Manager at MTR Corporation Limited.

Wayne started his professional career in December 1998 as an IT and communication systems Trainee. He finished up his traineeship and commenced in the railways in 2002 as a maintainer in the RailCorp Communications and Control Systems division, working his way through a distinguished career of 20+ years of design, delivery and commissioning of signalling control, automatic train protection and overall rail systems of major and mega rail projects.

He has a bit of career diversity too – and commissioned the traffic management and control system for NorthConnex road tunnel.

Wayne has worked in operations and maintenance, projects and the entire project lifecycle. He has even previously part-owned and run a rail system consulting business. Today he works exclusively for MTR as a one of its key rail system delivery experts in Australasia.

Wayne has post-grad education in Telecommunications Engineering from Wollongong University.

In between kids’ sports, Wayne enjoys fresh water and salt water fishing, rugby league and rugby union, a beer or glass of red wine, and odd flutter on the horses.

He is truly a rail systems expert with real world, hands on, demonstrated multi discipline experience of heavy rail, metro and light rail systems.

Raphaelle Guerineau is the Country CEO Siemens Mobility Australia & New Zealand. She joined Siemens in 2011 and has held various roles including the Head of Projects for Singapore, the Head of Tendering for ASEAN Pacific and more recently she was of Head of the Product Business based in Melbourne. Prior to this, she was with Alstom in Singapore where her roles included project manager for the signalling portion of the Circle Line and Head of Strategy for the Asia Pacific region. She has also worked at Newell Brands (a Fortune 500 company), Orange in Paris and at BTG PLC in London. Raphaelle brings around 20+ years of experience into transportation industry.

Raphaelle brings a wealth of international experience to her role and is an expert in her field. She is a true inspiration for emerging leaders in the rail industry , Raphaelle enjoys the rail industry complex business involving large projects, lots of technological interfaces and multi- faced stakeholder environments.

Pascal Labouze, Founder and principal at PL Advisory Pascal Started his professional carrier in 1993 with Alstom Transport in Cairo Egypt.

Pascal is an Engineer with Master in Aeronautics and Management from reputed institutions.

Pascal has over 30 years of experience working in the rail, Security and Aerospace industry throughout Australia and overseas such France and Egypt. Pascal has been in leadership positions with Sydney Train and Transport for NSW in positions like Head of operational Technology and Executive Director Operational Systems.

Pascal is a people leader and strategic thinker, he has demonstrated ability to set a vision, to shape and influence business outcomes, to articulate an implementation approach, and to inspire his team and the entire organisation. He has also successfully overseen the delivery of a range of high complexity projects which translated the vision into tangible customer-driven benefits.

“GREAT LEADERS ARE GREAT STORYTELLERS”

The fifth episode of our Railway Transportation Systems (RTS) Podcast is now available! Our guest speaker is Howard Collins, Chief Operations Officer (COO), Greater Sydney at Transport for NSW.

Howard has over 45+ years of experience and is known within the industry for his high skills in Operations Management, Disaster Recovery, Operational Planning, Employee Relations, Business Transformation, Management, and Project Portfolio Management including commissioning and opening new railways and place making.

In addition to his role as COO, Howard is on the Boards of Sydney Metro, Australasian Railway Association (ARA), TrackSAFE Foundation and NSW Transport Heritage. Howard has also held key roles including Chief Operating Officer at London Underground, and Chief Executive at Sydney Trains.

Good story telling isn’t about fanciful language, its’s about conveying a message clearly and simply. It’s about connecting with your audience not as customers, executives, or investors but as humans.

To find out just how influential a storyteller Howard is, be sure to tune into the podcast. The podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon Prime, Apple podcast, Stitcher, Google podcast, Audible, Overcast, Castro, Cast box and Pod friend wherever you listen.

Nadine Bourezg Project Director - Transport for NSW, Nadine started her professional carrier after an Engineering Specialised Master’s Degree from Ecole Central Paris.

Nadine has over 20 years of experience working in the automotive and rail industries across France, the UK and Australia - involved in design, planning, delivery, operations, maintenance phases- including portfolio, program, and project management. She worked for major companies such as Peugeot Citroen, Lear Corporation, and London Underground.

Currently Nadine is contributing her vast skills and experience obtained throughout her carrier for the benefit of Transport for NSW and the Transport industry.

“GREAT LEADERS ARE GREAT TEACHERS”

The third episode of the “Railway Transportation Systems (RTS)” Podcast is now ready! Our guest is Mark Wild, Former CEO of Crossrail Limited. Mark talks about his amazing professional career and the cutting-edge technological developments taking place in the industry. Mark requires no introduction; he is a motivational, energetic manager who leads from the front, with great experience in both public and private sectors and a proven track record in many international jurisdictions.

If you are keen to learn about project success and innovative ideas in delivering a project, tune into the podcast and listen to key insights of the Elizabeth Line programme and the complex challenges it faced. Mark also speaks about his learning legacy tour planned for 11 - 22 July taking place in Auckland, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney, where you can get an opportunity to meet him in person organised by Public Transport Association and Australian Railway Association.

Warwick Talbot Deputy Executive Director- Sydney Trains, Warwick started his professional carrier in 1970 as an Electrical mechanic apprentice on Sydney Railway (at the time known as PTC). Warwick has over 50+ years of experience working in the rail industry throughout Australia and overseas such as UK, Hong Kong, Vietnam and Taiwan, Warwick is heavily involved in policy, planning, estimating, operations, maintenance - including portfolio, program and project management.

Our First guest on Railway Transportation systems podcast is Helen Williams Executive General Manager at Systra ANZ, Helen started her professional carrier in 1989 with academic qualifications of Bachelors Degree in Engineering specialising in Astronautical Engineering, she also completed a graduate diploma in Railway signalling and telecommunications from Central Queensland university.

Helen is a senior leader passionate about creating inclusive cultures that empower people and allow them to thrive in their chosen professions. Holds successful track record of delivering safe, effective and value for money operational outcomes through high performing, empowered and engaged teams using sustainable processes, effective governance and cost effective operations.
A background in safety management and systems thinking enhances ability to maintain line of sight between need, requirement and outcome. Experienced in building relationships and listening to stakeholders to understand their needs. A collaborative leader with a highly technical background who can find the balance between consulting and leading delivery of strategic and operational outcomes.

The Railway Transportation Systems podcast features interviews with leaders in railway industry from Australia and around the world. Each guest will share their insights emphasising the railway technologies, the inspiration that led them to become one of the most successful railway entrepreneurs and various other discipline professionals. Let’s listen and learn together about various factors that are shaping our railways and about cutting-edge technological developments that are taking place in the industry. Hosted by Rahiman Shaik, Railway Systems Specialist. Email: railwaytransportationsystems@gmail.com