Volunteering with the PWI offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the railway engineering community while enhancing your own personal and professional growth. Ben Brooks, Vice President North East England, shares his experiences that highlight the rewarding nature of PWI involvement.  

Giving Back to a Passionate Community

Ben emphasises the importance of giving back to a profession he loves. By volunteering with the PWI, Members like him invest time in supporting others on their career journeys and shaping the future of the industry. Whether it’s organising Section meetings or mentoring young engineers, volunteers play a vital role in fostering a thriving professional community. 

Building Professional Networks

PWI Section meetings offer a blend of formal learning and informal networking. For Ben, these gatherings provide not only valuable insights into railway engineering but also a chance to connect with like-minded professionals. Discussions often extend beyond the meeting room, creating opportunities to exchange ideas and build lasting relationships over a casual chat. 

Flexible and Inclusive Involvement

Volunteering with the PWI is as flexible as it is fulfilling. Roles can range from coordinating events to simply supporting logistics. With the option to join meetings online, the PWI ensures accessibility for volunteers with varied schedules and commitments. Ben notes that even an hour or two each month can make a significant difference, showing that volunteering doesn’t have to be time-intensive to be impactful.

Opportunities for Personal Growth

Presenting at Section meetings and engaging with the PWI community has been personally rewarding for Ben. Sharing his knowledge and experiences has helped him grow in confidence and gain recognition in the industry. Whether you’re early in your career or a seasoned professional, volunteering provides a platform to develop leadership skills, broaden your expertise, and inspire others.

Conclusion

Volunteering with the PWI is more than just contributing your time—it’s about being part of a passionate, supportive community that values professional growth and connection. Whether you’re looking to give back, expand your network, or enhance your skills, the PWI offers a rewarding space to make a meaningful impact. As Ben says, “Volunteering with the PWI is something I enjoy doing—it’s a chance to do something for me while giving back to a profession I truly believe in.”

Get involved and see how volunteering with the PWI can benefit you and the wider railway engineering community.