Every Professional Registration journey is unique, and Olivia Huntly’s is no exception. From retraining as an engineer at the age of 30 to leading one of the UK’s most significant rail infrastructure programmes, Olivia’s journey demonstrates the value of determination, lifelong learning and professional development. Having recently achieved Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration with RailEI, she shares her experience and reflects on what becoming professionally registered means to her.
Tell us about yourself
I am the Chief Engineer for the Euston Development, one of the UK’s most significant rail infrastructure programmes. My career has spanned major enhancement, asset management and transformation projects across the rail industry, including the Northumberland Line, Leeds Station Enhancement Programme and strategic advisory work on California High-Speed Rail.
My route into engineering has been somewhat unconventional. I originally trained and worked as an actress and linguist before deciding to change careers at the age of 30. Network Rail supported me through a part-time Civil Engineering degree while I continued working, giving me the opportunity to develop the technical foundations for a career in infrastructure. That experience taught me the value of lifelong learning, resilience and challenging yourself to pursue new opportunities.
Why did you want to become professionally registered?
For me, achieving Chartered Engineer status was about demonstrating a commitment to professional excellence and continuous development. CEng registration provides independent recognition of both technical competence and leadership capability. It was important to gain formal recognition of the experience I have built throughout my career and to demonstrate my commitment to maintaining the highest professional standards within engineering.
How did you find the process?
The process was challenging but extremely rewarding. It encouraged me to reflect on a career path that has been anything but conventional and to recognise how far I have progressed since retraining as an engineer. Preparing my application gave me the opportunity to articulate the impact I have had across a range of complex projects and leadership roles. It also reinforced the importance of the support I have received from mentors, colleagues and professional institutions throughout my journey.
How will CEng recognition help you in your career?
Becoming Chartered provides a recognised benchmark of professional competence, leadership and credibility. It strengthens my ability to provide assurance and leadership on complex engineering programmes and gives confidence to colleagues, stakeholders and industry partners. As I continue to work on nationally significant projects, including the transformation of Euston into a world-class transport hub, Chartered status reinforces my commitment to professional excellence and supports my ambition to help shape the future of an integrated railway.
Inspired by Olivia’s journey? Explore Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration with RailEI: railei.org/technical-training/track-engineering-diploma
