I have worked in track engineering for over thirty years and grudgingly accept that I am closer to the end of my working life than the start! The catalyst for applying for Engineering Technician was the Network Rail Track Maintenance Conference in March 2021, when one of the sessions reminded me of the opportunities for professional registration, and the words from someone I worked with and respected were: ‘it is never too late to apply’. I also realised it would give me a sense of achievement. I couldn’t ignore the opportunity for peace of mind and a boost to my mental wellbeing.

The application process wasn’t hard. The two tricky bits were trying to remember what I had achieved and making sure my English was up to scratch. Colleagues helped me with these. The guidance on the PWI website is also very good. It provides examples so you can get an idea of the necessary structure and content of an application.

I have the ‘bit between my teeth’ now and am looking at what other levels I can work to achieve. So, if you are thinking of doing this, please give it a go; you will find it fulfilling.