Hitachi Rail renews partnership to inspire a new generation of rail engineers!
Hitachi Rail has announced its continued partnership with Powering Futures, with hopes of attracting more young people into the rail industry, including more women in engineering.
The accredited Powering Futures Schools Challenge Programme connects local students with real-world industry challenges, providing hands-on experience and valuable exposure to future career opportunities. The programme aims to bridge the gap between education and industry, with a strong focus on increasing gender diversity by creating new pathways for women to thrive in sectors they have been historically underrepresented.
The strategic partnership between Hitachi Rail and Powering Futures saw six Hitachi volunteers work with 192 students at Portobello High School in Edinburgh in the 2024-25 academic year, providing real-world insight and expertise as part of the delivery of the SCQF Level 6 qualification, which is equivalent to a Scottish Higher.
With an even 50:50 gender split among 1,675 pupils in 2024/25, the partnership gives employers like Hitachi Rail the chance to connect with talented young women early, build confidence, and show them that careers in engineering and rail are open to them.
Hitachi Rail, a global leader in rail solutions which is this year marking 200 years since the birth of the modern railway, sees this initiative as a key part of its commitment to an inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued, respected and empowered to contribute their best.
Fleet Director at Hitachi Rail Tim Olton said:
“We are committed to supporting the Powering Futures Challenge programme because we believe the future of rail must be inclusive, innovative and representative of the communities we serve.
“By opening doors to young women and giving them meaningful exposure to our industry, we aren’t just building careers - we’re powering the future of rail. This is really important as we celebrate 200 years of the railways this year. We want to show the incredible and diverse careers rail can offer to inspire the next generation.”
With deep roots in the Edinburgh community, including over a century of operations at its Craigentinny Depot, Hitachi Rail is passionate about connecting with local talent.
“For us, the Powering Futures programme is a fantastic opportunity to engage with local young people - young women especially - and show them the exciting career opportunities available right here on their doorstep. For our business, it’s about hiring, developing, and retaining the best possible talent and seeking diverse ideas and backgrounds to improve our workforce.”
As part of its broader commitment to nurturing local talent, Hitachi Rail will also be welcoming three new apprentices this year, an initiative further reinforced by its involvement in Powering Futures.
Stuart Ogston, Duty Shift Manager at Hitachi Rail said:
“Being part of the Powering Futures programme has been incredibly fulfilling. One highlight was judging the end-of-year presentations and seeing students confidently present their ideas to peers and professionals.
“This experience showcased the significant development the students achieved through the programme. I strongly encourage other businesses to join this initiative and help shape the future workforce.”
Jennifer Tempany, Co-Founder of Powering Futures, said:
“We’re absolutely delighted to be continuing our partnership with Hitachi Rail. Their renewed commitment speaks volumes about their dedication to creating meaningful opportunities for young people, particularly young women, to explore exciting futures in the rail sector.
“Last year, their support helped us reach 192 students at Portobello High School in Edinburgh, opening eyes to what a career in rail can look like. This continued partnership is about more than just inspiring career pathways - it’s about building a more inclusive, representative workforce in the rail sector and across Scottish industry.