Institution of Railway Operators
The Young Professionals is part of the Instiution of Railway Operator's South East area designed specifically to meet the needs of new or aspiring front line managers. The Institution provides a focus for raising standards 
and enhancing the professional standing of those directly involved in the safe and reliable operation of railways. In addition, it provides a nationally recognised and transferable qualification for all its members.
The need for the Institution was recognised at a Government-sponsored Rail Summit back in 1998. It was identified that a shortage of key railway operations skills was as a potential block to the Government's ambition of creating a first class public rail transport system.
The Institution of Railway Operators therefore seeks to address the following issues in today's railway:
• The ability for an individual to plan a career as a professional railway operator has become far more difficult.
• The new industry structure provides no facility for an individual employee to gain the skill required to develop all-round competency as a railway operator.
• The all-important competence of understanding the interface between train operations and signalling control systems is now separated between Network Rail and train and freight operating companies
Photo (above) - Chris Daughton, Chief Executive of the IRO, addresses one of our meetings, with Tim Shoveller, Chairman of the South East branch, in the background.
Education Programme - Degree and Diploma Courses
Railways are complex, posing challenges different from any other industry for those running them. The courses run by The Institution of Railway Operators and Glasgow Caledonian University offer a unique opportunity for Young Professionals to learn about operating railways. The courses are a route to gaining knowledge, while those who are already established in railways will find much of further interest and acquire professional recognition. Some employers are already considering making an IRO degree or diploma part of the qualifications for key jobs.
“I have found the IRO courses very beneficial in my everyday job. The requirement to study and understand the various parts of a complicated industry gives a new depth to my knowledge” (Alex Hellier – Degree Course Student)
Students successfully completing the course will be awarded a BSc or a Diploma in Higher Education, depending on the course they choose. Each module requires students to read the core text provided, to follow up referenced publications, and to undertake their own research. Additionally, tutorials are organised at the start of each module, and educational visits are organised to complement the some of the modules.
Up to date costs and further information is available at:
http://www.railwayoperators.org/pages/education.html
Visit the IRO's website
www.railwayoperators.org (link opens in a new window)