Can you tell us a bit about your background?

I have over 10 years of railway experience, having worked in the UK and New Zealand. Currently, I work as a Senior Project Engineer overseeing compliant Design and Construction of Civil Asset Reactive works, as well as Repairs and Renewals. It’s a varied job, where no two days are the same. It is also crucial to maintaining an efficient, safe, and effective railway.

Why did you want to become professionally registered with the PWI?

Having worked in the railway industry my entire career, I realised I had no railway-specific professional recognition, and this could hinder my progression in the industry. While I was Chartered through another institution, it didn’t represent the industry where I had done all my learning and gained all my experience. Therefore, I knew if I wanted people to know I was an experienced and competent railway professional, the best institution to do this with would be the PWI. 

How did you find the process?

I applied through the Additional Membership route, and after submitting the application, I was told I was successful in under six weeks. Prior to this, I needed a Supporter and a Sponsor, and fortunately, I had a few people to choose from, as it is becoming more prevalent to obtain this recognition within Network Rail. I found the process straightforward, and the PWI was helpful in guiding me and explaining anything that I didn’t understand. 

How will PWI CEng recognition help you in your career?

I am encouraging others within my company to undertake the journey of becoming PWI CEng, either as an additional registration or singular. It will afford me better career opportunities, give me greater access to a community of like-minded engineers, enhance my employer’s credibility by having a professionally recognised employee, and provide me with the credentials to mentor more junior engineers through their professional development.