Honouring true industry advocates

Launched in 2024, in honour of Tom O’Connor, founder of Rail Media and visionary behind the RailStaff Awards, the Rail Ambassador Award celebrates those who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to promoting and advancing the rail industry. The Award honours the individuals who champion the industry, serve as positive advocates, inspire others, and help to […]

A lifetime of rail excellence

The rail industry is lucky enough to include thousands of staff who’ve served faithfully throughout their entire working lives. Many of those now reaching retirement age can boast decades of dedication and it’s not unheard of for employees to leave with 50 years or more under their belt. The Lifetime Achievement Award honours those who’ve […]

Engineering excellence applauded

One of the most prestigious accolades at the RailStaff Awards, the Rail Engineer of the Year Award celebrates the exceptional expertise and vision of the individuals whose work underpins the railway and drives it confidently into the future. The award recognises engineers who not only deliver technically outstanding projects, but whose influence helps shape best […]

Engineering excellence applauded

One of the most prestigious accolades at the RailStaff Awards, the Rail Engineer of the Year Award celebrates the exceptional expertise and vision of the individuals whose work underpins the railway and drives it confidently into the future. The award recognises engineers who not only deliver technically outstanding projects, but whose influence helps shape best […]

Celebrating excellence in customer care

Outstanding customer service is the heartbeat of any successful organisation, and in the rail industry it can define a passenger’s entire journey. The Customer Service Person or Team Award celebrates those who go above and beyond to deliver exceptional experiences. Great service doesn’t just solve problems; it builds trust, loyalty, and long-term confidence in rail […]

Inspiring technology and innovation

Innovation is one of the driving forces behind a safer, smarter, and more efficient railway, and this year’s Innovation & Technology Team or Person Award shone a spotlight on those who continually push the industry forward. The award celebrates the individuals and teams whose technological breakthroughs have delivered meaningful improvements across the network. Whether in […]

Applauding graduate game-changers

Graduates leave university loaded with enthusiasm, novel ideas, and the latest technical insight — all of which are vital for moving the rail sector forward. The Graduate of the Year Award recognises outstanding recent graduates who are already making significant contributions to the rail industry. Our judges look for individuals who embody passion, creativity, and […]

Honouring our HR heroes

Deborah Birch, head of HR at Hull Trains, picked up the coveted HR and Recruitment Person Award at this year’s RailStaff Awards. The Award recognises the individuals and teams who have demonstrated exceptional achievements and excellence in the strategic management of human resources and who have explored innovative approaches in attracting, selecting, and nurturing top […]

RailStaff Awards 2025: honouring the industry’s everyday heroes

Representatives from across the rail industry celebrated last night (Thursday 27 November) at the RailStaff Awards 2025. Held at Birmingham’s NEC, the event shines a spotlight on the people whose dedication keeps the railway running. Rail managers, customer service assistants, apprentices, training managers and many more were there, reflecting the industry’s wide range of skills […]