Thinking about a career in the rail industry? Just do it!
When we asked Shauna Sawyer , Lead Surveyor at SEP Rail Services, “What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in the rail industry?”
Her answer was clear: “Just do it!”
And this is something we want to really shout about. The rail industry IS a place for everyone. The NSAR Rail Workforce Survey shows that 16% of the UK rail workforce are women, up from 13% in 2018. While this is a step in the right direction, we need to continue raising awareness to show women at all stages of their careers that the rail industry is for them.
As Shauna explained, “I’ve yet to come across any hard challenges working on site, but there are a few smaller issues, such as bathroom facilities, topics of conversation you tend to overhear from working within a male-dominated environment and having to try and prove yourself.
The only solutions I would suggest are to make sure you have a voice and ensure that as a woman, you are heard.”
Commenting on how the industry can encourage more women to pursue a career in rail, Shauna said, “I’m hoping that seeing more roles being filled by women will encourage others to take the opportunity.”
Shauna continued, “SEP took a chance with me as I had no rail experience or survey knowledge. By taking that chance, I’ve seen no prejudice, and I have progressed significantly in my career with the help of both office staff and teams.”
“I have never felt out of place, and my voice often gets heard.”
“SEP has allowed me to progress to a COSS and Lead Surveyor by ensuring I have the right tools and knowledge to do the job correctly.”
We recognised Shauna’s determination over three year’s ago and knew she was perfect. Since then, Shauna has become an indispensable part of our team, taking on the responsibility as Lead Surveyor and excelling at every opportunity.
Shauna concluded, “There are so many opportunities available, whether site-based or office-based. There is so much room to grow and expand your career, and I would never say you’re limited. If you don’t like one aspect of the job, there are countless ways to move up the ladder.”
Hearing Shauna’s experience as a woman highlights the areas in which we can improve. It’s reassuring to hear that Shauna hasn’t faced what she deems as hard challenges – and we want to continue promoting an environment that is comfortable for everyone.
Shauna’s comments underscore the importance of providing adequate facilities for all and being mindful of the appropriateness of conversations in the workplace. By highlighting these topics, we will create a better working environment for everyone.