The Rail Industry and The Talent Foundry

Client: The Talent Foundry

The Talent Foundry (TTF), in partnership with Network Rail and the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB), is driving social mobility and strengthening the industry’s talent pipeline by inspiring and equipping young people from underserved communities with skills, knowledge, and confidence to pursue careers in rail.

For five years, this collaboration has engaged thousands of students through two high-impact programmes - Track to the Future (Year 12-13) and Lightbulb Moments (Year 7-8). These initiatives address misconceptions about the rail sector, provide hands-on experiences, and develop essential workplace skills, bridging the gap between education and employment.

In the past year, the programme has expanded substantially to include the support of 11 rail organisations, 645 volunteer hours, and substantial financial investment, this partnership has reached 2,389 students. 93% of participants now better understand rail careers, and 87% have increased confidence in essential skills.

The rail industry faces a critical skills shortage, with an aging workforce and a lack of diversity. Only 10% of the workforce is under 30, and the sector remains predominantly male (84%) and white (87%). This initiative exemplifies cross-sector collaboration, fostering inclusion and making a tangible impact on young people’s futures and the rail industry’s sustainability.