Post-Grad Lessons in Ljubljana
06 Jul 2010
Mark Wallace has just returned from stints abroad working in the rail industry in Ireland and central Europe, as part of one of the industry's more ambitious graduate trainee programmes, reports Matthew Bunn.
Interfleet Technology's graduate scheme has been running for over 10 years now and has become one of the quiet success stories of the rail industry. Not only do new recruits gain first hand experience at the sharp end of railways, many end up working overseas, as far away as Australia and America.
It is sometimes overlooked just how much of an export Britain's railway specialists provide. Interfleet's graduate scheme is designed to integrate the graduates into all aspects of the company. Rising through the ranks is also encouraged.
Says Graduate Section Manager, Kylee Clayson (below), ‘We are trying to grow future leaders within the organisation. The graduates will be based in all the different sectors of the company.'
The training scheme lasts four years. The first two years is a training period in which graduates get a firm grasp of the rail industry. They work in all different parts of the organisation, including rolling stock, safety, maintenance and infrastructure. Then comes 2 years professional development.
Activities are not just confined to Interfleet. Graduates are sent out on work placements with rail companies honing their skills at mechanical and electrical engineering. While some stay within the UK for placements others see service overseas, for example, in Sweden and Malaysia. Then comes two years in one specific appointment.
Unlike the training period, graduates will be able to choose the section they would most like to work in. Interfleet believes the flexibility of the scheme sets it apart from others in the industry.
‘The graduates take on responsibility of the scheme and contribute to its development. We think of graduates as consultants from day 1,' says Kylee Clayson.
Mark Wallace is enthusiastic about the scheme. ‘I believe it is unrivalled in the industry in terms of its variety of placements and opportunities. The placements are one of the things that set Interfleet apart. I really enjoyed them and they give you real insight into all aspects of rail.'
Mark worked in Northern Ireland and Slovenia. Interfleet has long been involved in rolling stock work with NIR. Slovenske Železnice (SŽ) (Slovenian Railways) has undergone substantial modernisation since the country gained independence in 1991.
Graduates wanting to get on the scheme will need to have a degree which is accredited by either the IMechE or IET. Relevant work experience is advantageous.
For more information visit:
www.interfleet.co.uk/graduates