Amey has entered into a new Social Value Partnership with Pro Rail Academy, reinforcing its commitment to developing the skills and talent needed to support the future growth of Ireland's rail network.
The partnership will help expand rail training capabilities across Ireland as the sector prepares for increased investment in infrastructure and modernisation projects. Through the collaboration, Amey will contribute technical expertise and materials to support the Academy's training programmes, with an initial focus on Overhead Line Equipment (OLE) installation and maintenance. Opportunities to support signalling training may also be explored in the future.
Pro Rail Academy has been established to create a steady pipeline of skilled rail professionals for both the Irish and UK rail industries. The organisation will provide practical, industry-led training for apprentices, new entrants and experienced rail workers, while also serving as a hub for innovation and research and development activities.
The announcement was made during the official sod-turning ceremony for the Academy's new facility in Thomas Street, Kiltimagh, County Mayo. The site will incorporate a dedicated rail training centre, a Rail Innovation Hub and a Research & Development Hub, bringing together industry expertise, skills development and technological advancement under one roof.
Representatives from Amey joined rail sector leaders, government officials and local stakeholders from Ireland and the UK to mark the start of construction on the landmark development.
Industry Investment Requires Skilled Talent
Commenting on the partnership, Ewen Morrison, Account Director at Amey, said:
"Developing the next generation of Ireland's rail professionals is critical to the future success of the industry. As investment in rail infrastructure continues to grow, so too does the need for skilled people who can safely deliver and maintain these vital assets.
The Irish Government's recent transport budget announcement further reinforces the importance of investing in skills today to meet the demands of tomorrow. Social Value Partnerships like this ensure we are building the capability, expertise and talent pipeline needed to deliver the next generation of rail projects across Ireland."
Creating a Centre of Excellence for Rail Skills
Welcoming the partnership, Siobhan Maloney, Training Director at Pro Rail Academy, added:
"We are delighted to welcome Amey as a Social Value Partner of Pro Rail Academy. Their extensive experience in rail infrastructure and commitment to developing people will play an important role in helping us establish a centre of excellence for rail training.
This Social Value Partnership demonstrates the industry's collective commitment to investing in skills, supporting communities and creating sustainable career opportunities for future generations."
The partnership highlights a growing industry focus on tackling rail skills shortages while ensuring the workforce is ready to support future infrastructure investment across Ireland and the wider UK rail sector.
Image credit: Amey
