PWI Practical Trackwork ChallengeLast month, the PWI held our third Practical Trackwork Challenge at Leekbrook. Young rail professionals came together for an exceptional two-day event that enabled them to gather first-hand experience of a track renewal process in a safe, controlled environment. Since our first challenge in 2017, these events have been specifically designed to give rail professionals who are often office-bound a chance to get involved in the practical aspects of site work. "It’s a fantastic opportunity for them to learn with confidence on the ground,” says our Technical Director, Brian Counter, "they get to learn about safety considerations, materials, tools handling, site communication, teamwork and working with mechanical plant, all of which can take place in challenging weather conditions." The PWI Practical Trackwork Challenge is a carefully curated learning experience that would not be possible without the support of our industry friends. We are very grateful to Churnet Valley Railway for hosting this year, and to the many companies who lent their time, resources and staff, including TXM Plant, Quattro Plant, Cleshar, TFL, Network Rail, AECOM, RAIB, VolkerRail, SNC Lavalin, Balfour Beatty, Swietelsky Babcock Rail, Story Contracting, ORR, Costain, Stobart Rail, Jacobs and Shannon Rail. We would also like to extend a special thanks to Roy Hickman and PWI Honorary Life Member Malcolm Pearce whose commitment to delivering a comprehensive, safe and efficient challenge was immense. Last but not least, thank you to all the young professionals who participated. We hope that you enjoyed the experience and we look forward to seeing you out and about on track again soon! If you would like to enquire about being involved in next year's challenge, either as a potential host or supporting company, please contact kate.hatwell@thepwi.org |