A Network Rail engineer who upgraded the signalling at London King’s Cross station as part of the £1.2billion East Coast Upgrade is using this year’s International Women in Engineering Day (Wednesday, 23 June) to encourage more women to consider a railway career.
Joanne Thomas began her railway engineering career nearly 30 years ago and has worked for Network Rail for four years. Joanne has worked on a number of projects and recently worked on a major programme to transform the signalling system at one of the UK’s most historic stations – London King’s Cross.
Joanne’s role on the project was to integrate the design and construction of the layout of the new equipment, including where the new signals should be installed. This was a pivotal role on the project and ensured the work went smoothly.
Speaking about her experience in engineering and the rail industry, Joanne said: “Working as a signalling engineer is challenging but so rewarding and I’m proud to work in the rail industry.
“The work we have recently completed will make journeys much more reliable and, as a commuter myself, it’s great to know that I’m part of a team improving journeys for passengers.
“A career in the rail industry means you really make a difference to people’s lives, so I’d encourage more women to consider a career in the sector.
“When I started my career, there were very few women on the railway but that is changing now and it’s great to see more women getting involved and I’d encourage any women and girls who enjoy the science, maths and other STEM subjects to consider joining the railway.”
Please keep an eye on our careers website for career opportunities including apprenticeships and graduate programmes –Â https://www.networkrail.co.uk/careers/
