Joyce B.

From a workshop in 6th Form to railway that keeps the country moving

I was so sure on not going to university and was convinced that an apprenticeship was the way to go. I couldn’t have made a better decision for myself. I started off working in hospitality through an agency at the age of 17 whilst being at 6th form but I knew engineering was something I wanted to pursue. From GCSE Design and Tech- Resistant Materials to A level Product Design, I enjoyed the freedom of working in a workshop and being able to apply techniques i’d learnt to fulfill a design brief. Now at 19, I get to learn more theory behind materials, components and complete work on site fit for the use of a variety of trains. I really enjoyed seeing the knowledge that i’ve learnt so far visually in front of me and seeing beyond just a textbook explanation and that’s why i sought out for an apprenticeship because you can find your own balance of theory to practical and being able to physically practice and master jobs that have been maintaining the railway for years. With an industry that is forever changing and upgrading to ensure that passengers and ourselves are always safe whilst getting the job done to the best standard. I knew this was the company for me

I maintain the railway at one of the busiest stations in the UK

From Shovelling to special equipment to record track movement. My current role as an apprentice sees that I learn, understand and do many maintenance tasks to ensure that trains can safely travel from one point to another and minimise uncomfortable bumpy train journeys. We don’t just act on site, we also have many preventative maintenance tasks such as crossing inspections

New appreciation of the railway,especially when using public transport

Being a woman on the railway has been fun and it's even better being in a company that is as inclusive and diverse as this. My colleagues at my depot are very supportive and trust me to do well, this includes allowing me to lead tasks and perfect skills as this is the only way to get better at what I do. It is motivating to see my character and confidence develop at work receive feedback from those that have taught me. Being able to complete works and days later travel on the same line that you worked on and even just learning more about features on the railway and looking out for them as you sit on the train is something I find that I do a lot more now working for Network Rail A massive motivating factor when joining Network Rail was volunteering days especially being able to help advertise the apprenticeship to loads of people, I had parents that weren't so knowledgeable on some of the huge benefits that came from doing an apprenticeship and 15 months in they tell other family members about it too. I wanted to be able to inform so many people of alternatives to university and also encourage different faces into the railway.

Be bold and don’t be afraid to ask questions

Don't just use this when on the scheme but wherever you choose to go. No question is a silly question and you never know what your question might lead to and who else might've been meaning to ask the same thing. In such a multi disciplined company questions you ask may not always be tied to your discipline but could help someone else without you even realising . Never be afraid to stand out even if its for asking "too many questions"

Earning my white hat

Arguably one of the smaller achievements whilst working on the railway, but it meant everything being trusted by my supervisors and section manager. My efforts and willingness to learn being appreciated by those I have looked up and learnt from whilst starting this apprenticeship. It was also on my bucket list to earn my white hat and whilst I'm no where near a 'professional' yet , I see it as just the start of my journey to work hard and safely on the railway along with my colleagues and being a consistent team player.