Pathways into the rail industry

The rail industry plays a huge part in keeping the country moving – literally. It connects people, businesses, and communities, and supports thousands of jobs across a wide range of specialities. However, if you ask most people what a rail career looks like, chances are they’ll say something along the lines of someone driving a train or working on the tracks.

The truth is, there’s a lot more choice when it comes to a career in rail. One of the biggest challenges the industry faces is making these opportunities more visible and accessible to a wider range of people. In this blog, we will be highlighting some initiatives in place to improve the accessibility of a career in rail.

Creating clearer pathways

Providing clearer, more supported entry routes is a key way to make the rail industry more accessible. Apprenticeships are a great example of this. They offer hands on experience, recognised qualifications, and a salary from day one. Graduate schemes, returner programmes, and partnerships with schools and colleges also act similarly in building the talent pipeline early.

Schemes like Network Rail’s Advanced Apprenticeship Programme are designed for exactly this, giving people with little or no technical background the tools to learn on the job, earn while they train, and build a long-term career.
Meanwhile, Southeastern’s ‘Train into Work’ scheme provides women with a route back into employment through rail.

Supporting career changers and underrepresented groups

However, it’s not just about young people. Career changers, veterans, and people re-entering the workforce all bring valuable skills and experience. The more the industry embraces that diversity, the stronger and more resilient it becomes.

There are programmes which have been specifically designed to support people in entering the rail industry and they are making a real difference. Amey, for example, runs a dedicated veterans programme that helps former service members transition into rail roles, and HS2’s job brokerage programme is helping people access local rail jobs through tailored support, mentoring and on the job training.

Making inclusion a priority

Accessibility doesn’t stop at the point of entry. A truly accessible career is one where people feel supported to stay and grow. That means inclusive cultures, visible role models, flexible working options, and policies that reflect the diversity of the workforce.

Organisations like Women in Rail and the Railway Industry Association are leading the way in building inclusive networks and sharing best practice. Mentoring programmes, leadership training and grassroots outreach are all helping to foster a culture where everyone feels they belong.

The future of rail is changing , with greener technologies, smarter infrastructure, and a growing need for innovation. If the industry is to meet these demands, it needs a workforce that reflects the society it serves.

At Cavendish we place skilled operatives in rail roles across the country, reach out to find out more.