Chris Fuller, Senior Engineer for Track Geometry at Network Rail, reflects on his path to becoming a Chartered Engineer—a journey that began as a Data Technician in 2015. With a background in environmental science, Chris shares how he advanced within Network Rail, pursued further studies, and gained confidence and credibility through Chartership with the PWI.
Chris, can you briefly introduce yourself, please?
I joined Network Rail as an Examination Data Technician for the track geometry processing team based in Milton Keynes in July 2015, after graduating with a degree in environmental science. Although I had an interest in railway engineering, which promoted the decision to work for Network Rail, it would have been beyond my imagination at the time that I would have become a Chartered Engineer nearly 10 years later. I worked my way up through the bands of the geometry processing team, and after managing the team for two years, I joined the Technical Authority as a Senior Engineer for track geometry in February 2020. During the past five years I have become the technical expert in dynamically measured track geometry for Network Rail, and I am now developing my knowledge on the wheel-rail interface.
Why did you want to become professionally registered?
Being in an engineering role but holding a science degree made me self-conscious about how other engineers may perceive my credibility, and whilst my scientific background allowed me to demonstrate my technical and methodological skills with regard to train-borne measurements, I felt it was necessary to pursue an engineering Master’s degree at the University of Birmingham as part of the Level 7 apprenticeship scheme and work towards becoming a Chartered Engineer with the PWI.
How did you find the process?
The benefit of the Level 7 apprenticeship scheme meant I was able to use my part-time Masters and my study time from the three years to build on my portfolio and collate evidence demonstrating how I met the CEng requirements and focus on areas where I felt my experience was lacking. At first, the process and required paperwork seemed daunting. However, the apprenticeship provided me with the breathing space to work through the requirements, and when I was stuck, I was fortunate to have the support of the PWI and those colleagues around me who were already Chartered. My favourite part of the process was the end-point assessment interview, where I had to present my case for Chartership to experienced industry professionals from the PWI. Their evaluation of my career and positive constructive feedback made me realise I was an experienced and competent engineer.
How do you consider being recognised with CEng status as helping you in your career?
The purpose of being recognised with CEng status was less about career progression and more about self-confidence through credibility. However, now that I am a Chartered Engineer with the PWI, the benefits are being felt as I feel more confident in my current role when working alongside my peers.
Thank you for time, Chris. We look forward to seeing what’s in store for you next!
