For one intensive week, the London North Eastern and East Midlands team celebrated all that is great about the railway industry by inspiring approximately 450 young people with an exciting programme of events across York and the surrounding areas.
Andy Leonard, training team leader, prepares to set off on a tour on Saturday 2 July as part of Rail Week
On 2 July, crowds gathered for guided tours around York Station, Scarborough Bridge and the Rail Operating Centre before learning all about the railway infrastructure and career opportunities at the Career Day in George Stephenson House.
Representatives from Network Rail, AMCO, Jacobs, Atkins and Arcadis spoke to a wide range of people from young people who had come with their parents, to others looking for a change in career.
19 volunteers from the LNE and East Midlands team also visited 7 local high schools to promote career opportunities within the rail industry, as well as involving students in interactive demonstrations of what the railway has to offer.
The week rounded off with a station open day, hosted jointly with Virgin Trains East Coast.
The team have already received feedback from the public following their hard work in coordinating the week:
The training centre tour was brilliant – I highly recommend it. I was originally thinking of training to be a signaller, but I’m now fascinated by welding too. I think I’ll apply for both!
I really appreciated the change to find out about what I can do with my history degree at the careers fair. I’ve always loved the railway and exploring old deeds but I never thought about property and liabilities as a possible career choice until now. You’ve given me lots to think about!”
