Female Train Driver is encouraging people to consider joining the rail industry.
One of our very own train drivers here at London Northwestern Railway (LNR), Katie – who’s based at Crewe station – has been working in the rail industry for more than 15 years now. After beginning her career as a rail conductor, her supportive colleagues encouraged her to consider applying for an internal role as a train driver – a decision she has never looked back on.
However, despite Katie’s positive experience, industry-wide women make up less than 1 in 10 train drivers* . With this in mind, Katie is sharing her journey, hoping to encourage Brits no matter the industry they’re currently in, to consider a career on the tracks. Highlighting how she got to where she is today, and exactly why she believes working in rail “is something to be proud of”
Where it all began
“Prior to joining the railway, I didn’t have a career path. I completed my A-levels but decided I didn’t want to go to university. I worked at an opticians for a little while, and then moved onto motor trade. But, a conversation with my dad back in 2009 changed all of this for me.
“Being local to Crewe, the community is all about the railway industry. My dad spotted a job going at LNR (London Midland at the time) as a train conductor and encouraged me to apply. He said it would be a great fit for my personality. So, I took his advice, applied, and can honestly say I’ve never looked back.”
Jumping into the driver’s seat
“I’d been a train conductor for a few years and was loving it, when I saw LNR was looking internally for trainee train drivers. I didn’t see any reason not to apply, after being in the industry for several years at this point – and was encouraged to apply by supportive colleagues.
“In September 2013 I began my driver training and was qualified the following year in 2014. Following this, I relocated to Birmingham for some time too, as I was based at Snow Hill station. This was brilliant; I didn’t go to uni, so this was amazing for me – a chance to enjoy a bit of city life and make new friends.”
Dealing with prejudice
“It’s crazy to say but when I mention what I do for work, some people are really shocked. I was once having a conversation with a neighbour and had mentioned that I drive trains for a living, his response was to question “Not on the main line though?”.
This just highlights how important it is to show women, of all ages, that they too can do every aspect of the role that any other train driver could do.
“A couple of years ago, I was involved in an event at Wolverhampton station promoting a book called ‘My Mummy is a Train Driver’, that aims to tackle gender stereotypes. This day was so special and extremely important, educating people from such a young age that anyone can be a train driver. I was so proud that the company I work for would get involved in, and lead something like this.”
A supportive team
“Working with LNR, you know the support that’s available to you should you need it. Management is always available to talk to, along with being offered services like counselling, health, physio, and more. To keep us fit and healthy, both mind and body. I actually had some counselling last year at Christmas time through work, and I really appreciated the support I was given. There was a reason I didn’t want to apply to become a driver anywhere else, I wanted to stay with the company!”
The next five years...
“Most recently I applied to become a train driver instructor, so that I can train new drivers. I’d been thinking about it for a while but now that I’ve been qualified for ten years and have more experience under my belt, I felt now was the right time to go for it. Last month I went for the test with my local management and found out I was successful. So, over the next year I will be training and looking after one or two trainees, I can’t wait!”
Final words and advice
“For anyone considering applying to become a train driver, I say go for it – absolutely go for it! There’s so much that you can do in a train driving role, and plenty of opportunities to explore – just like me moving into instructing. I think it’s really important for women to remember, you can be any age and get into train driving, and you won’t look back once you do. No matter what industry you currently work in, anyone can join the railway.
“If you do decide that a career as a train driver is for you, my few pieces of advice would be to have a good routine, make sure you find what works for you. Then finally, never be afraid to ask questions!”
Become a London Northwestern Railway Trainee Train Driver!
We are currently looking for a motivated and passionate individual to join our team. Find out more about the available position based at Crewe.