A significant part of the rail industry is coming together to support women in rail who have had career breaks or want to try something new.
Via a collaboration with Women in Rail, the Never Mind The Gap campaign will provide training and work placements for women who want to ‘change track’ after a period out of the workforce.
Changing people’s perceptions
The rail partners supporting the initiative include:
“As someone relatively new to the rail industry myself, I can vouch for what a great sector this is to be a part of,” said Northern’s people director, Lisa Leighton.
“Changing people’s perceptions of what a career in rail in 2024 actually looks like is something I am passionate about and ‘Never Mind The Gap’ is a great initiative to help achieve that.”
Sustaining growth
Highlights of the programme will include a tour of Northern’s TrainCare Centre, using the power of virtual reality to experience being a train driver, and workshops on interview skills and CV writing.
TransPennine Express’ people director, Nicola Buckley, commented: "There are so many fantastic career opportunities in rail, and we are delighted to be able to showcase some of the roles available. ‘Never Mind The Gap’ offers a perfect opportunity for women who are returning from a career break, or who want to try something new.”
She added that almost a quarter (24%) of the TPE workforce is made up of women but the operator has more work to do so growth can continue.
“It’s really important that women get into these roles so there is more representation which reflects the communities we serve."
Applications for the initiative are open until Friday 16 August.
Image credit: iStock
