FROM on-board to the boardroom, Great Western Railway (GWR) and Network Rail (NR) have teamed up to celebrate women in the rail industry for International Women’s Day today.

A new film revisits the careers of some of the women who starred in a special feature last year. Showcasing women from GWR and Network Rail, the film highlights the range of career options in the rail industry and the opportunities for progression.

People and Transformation Director (Regional) for Great Western Railway and Network Rail Wales and Western, Ruth Busby, who features in the film, said:

'It was brilliant to see the stories behind some of the women showcased in last year’s film and to see how they have progressed within the industry.

'This year we are also partnering with the Real Links platform, allowing colleagues to upload their skills and help them develop in their careers by matching them with potentially-suitable roles.'

'How She Belongs' catches up with five colleagues who featured in last year’s film, 'A Woman Belongs', capturing their career progression and the support available within the industry.

To celebrate International Women’s Day, colleagues from GWR and NR – including members of the Women in Rail network – will be at London Paddington station today from 1000 to 1400.

They will loan their expertise and experience to highlight the diverse opportunities available within the rail industry at stalls in the station. In particular, they will be promoting apprenticeship vacancies to encourage more women who are early in their career to consider the railway.  

Co-chair of Women in Rail at GWR, Valerie Pope, said: 'We will have members of staff from both GWR Women In Rail Network and Network Rail Inspire Network with the aim of promoting both companies as an Inclusive and Diverse place to work.

'We will be talking to passengers about what International Women’s Day means to us as well as giving away flowers and chocolates.'