Nurturing the next generation of light rail professionals must be a key priority for the sector, and UKTram is helping to lead the way.

The challenge of attracting and retaining talent was put under the spotlight at a recent conference when Dan Hill, Executive Assistant at UKTram, led a panel discussion featuring rising stars from across the sector.

“We have already taken the lead on the subject by setting up a working group to explore ways to promote light rail as a rewarding career option, and while this work is ongoing, we expect to draw on the experience of colleagues as a range of initiatives take shape,” Dan said.

“In the meantime, the UK Light Rail Conference in Leeds provided the ideal platform to celebrate the contribution made by young people to the successful operation of tramways and other mass transit systems, while highlighting the wide range of roles that are open to those who want to join the sector and its supply chain.

Dan was joined on the panel by Phil Page from First Tram Operations Limited, Anna Tyler of Mott MacDonald, Edward Rymer from Colas Rail, and Lucy Davison from SYSTRA, who all shared their experiences of a sector that provides a wealth of opportunities in a host of disciplines – from engineering to marketing.

“I was delighted to be asked to lead the debate by conference organisers Mainspring and to hear so many inspirational stories during the debate,” Dan added.