I manage the readiness process that Network Rail uses to prepare ahead of completing major engineering works on the railway at weekends and bank holidays. I work closely with our project engineering teams to ensure that their projects are ready to be delivered and that they have measures in place such as contingency plans should they encounter any problems.

The work might include replacing bridges or structures, upgrading the signalling equipment or renewing the track. I also work with our operations teams, the people who run the railway on a day-to-day basis, to ensure that they fully understand what engineering work we’re undertaking.

What is the best thing about what you are doing now?

I get to see some really interesting engineering projects being delivered on the railway with a lot of variety. My job also carries quite a lot of responsibility, so I find myself working with a huge variety of people from project managers and engineers, all the way up to board level.

What made you interested in your current role?

I like the variety and the ability to drop in and out of lots of different projects.

How has your career developed since graduating?

I’ve stayed with Network Rail since graduating in 2013 but have had a number of different jobs. I actually started out on a Year In Industry with Network Rail between my third and fourth years at Birmingham, then returned on the IT graduate scheme. I’ve since moved roles several times to reach my current position.

Why did you originally apply to Birmingham?

I really liked the campus and the City having visited both several times before applying. My course was also fairly unique at the time I applied.

What are your fondest memories of the University?

I have many fond memories, but in particular some of the really interesting modules I studied, walking to lectures across the campus during the autumn, and of course the friends I made on my course and whilst I worked at the Guild of Students.