Marta Filipiuk, a trainee train driver with Avanti West Coast, was inspired to apply after seeing the company’s recruitment campaign featuring a mural of Karen Harrison, one of the UK’s first female train drivers. Previously working as a minicab driver and in a warehouse, she had never considered a career in rail until the campaign highlighted opportunities for women in the industry. Now, she is part of a growing number of female recruits, as Avanti West Coast has increased its percentage of female trainee drivers by nearly 60% following the initiative.
“There are so many things I love about my job. The most exciting part for me? Driving a train at 125 miles per hour! But beyond the thrill, I’ve also been fascinated by the process…”
Finding inspiration in unexpected places
I was inspired by two people on my journey to becoming a train driver. Years ago, I was working as a minicab driver, and one of my passengers was a train driver instructor. He was the first person who opened my eyes to the idea that I could drive trains. Then, a few years later, I saw the Karen Harrison campaign, and at that moment, I thought: Wow, this is my time.
I applied, and here I am today, three-quarters of the way through my training. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’ve met so many amazing people along the way. Looking back, I can’t believe I almost didn’t go for it.
Why I love being a train driver
There are so many things I love about my job. The most exciting part for me? Driving a train at 125 miles per hour! But beyond the thrill, I’ve also been fascinated by the process — learning what I need to do before I even get in the driver’s seat, the technical knowledge, and the responsibility that comes with the role.
Every day is different, and every challenge brings new learning experiences. I genuinely feel like the luckiest person alive because I wake up each morning knowing I’m living my dream.
Celebrating International Women’s Day
For me, it’s about celebrating the achievements of women across the world, whilst also highlighting the gaps in equality and the issues that women still have to deal with today. Together, women and men need to break down barriers to equality and work towards having a more diverse workforce — whatever the industry. Women need to continue to be a source of inspiration, like Karen was to me, because if you have the right skills and attitude, then nothing should stop you.
The future of gender representation in the railway industry
Year-on-year I am seeing more women join our industry, and it’s really great to see. Of course, there is still more to be done in challenging the stereotype that driving a train is only a job for men. The Karen Harrison mural is a great example of Avanti West Coast’s aspiration to lead the industry in gender representation, and I am honoured to now have the chance to share my story. If I am able to inspire just one person, then that would be an amazing feeling for me.
Looking ahead to becoming a fully qualified train driver
I am excited about accomplishing my dream of being a fully qualified train driver. I have wanted this for so long, and I know that my first journey after completing my training will be such a memorable moment for me. That being said, I don’t want to rush ahead — I am really enjoying the course and being able to challenge myself every day.
A message to other women thinking about applying
If you’re interested in becoming a train driver, my advice is simple: Go for it! Don’t wait, don’t doubt yourself — just apply. There’s a perception that train driving is a male-dominated field, but that’s changing, and there’s never been a better time for women to get into the industry.
Seeing what Avanti West Coast is doing to recruit more women is inspiring, and I hope more women take the leap like I did. I can honestly say that this has been the best working year of my life, and it’s only the beginning.
Avanti West Coast is leading the charge in creating equal opportunities within the railway industry. Thanks to its trailblazing recruitment campaign, a third of its new trainee driver recruits are women, marking a significant step toward greater gender equality.
The company is on track to meet its goal of 50% female trainee driver recruits by 2030, with over 1,000 applications from women received in 2023 alone. For those ready to take the leap into a rewarding and exciting career, find out more here Train Driver Recruitment | Avanti West Coast.
