Laraine Pearson

Laraine is a Scheme Project Manager with Network Rail IP Wales, and the chair of the Welsh gender equality network Inspire. Five years into her railway career Laraine has delivered some interesting and valuable projects, including the electrification of the Severn Tunnel and the more recent emergency works on the Conwy Valley Line. Starting with the company on a graduate scheme, Laraine has worked across a number of routes and disciplines. Formally Recognised for her contribution to the Welsh route in 2017, nominated for awards for her collaborative working and most recently nominated for a W.I.S.E award for her efforts to build a gender Equal industry.

The conference gives Laraine the opportunity to discuss the gender balance within the wider railway industry. Through encouraging and attracting female talent and retaining and providing our existing staff with the tools to move into senior roles, the industry will benefit from a more diverse workforce at all levels. There are still barriers that need to be broken down to enable us to be an industry of choice for both genders.