Since the early 20th century, women have played a critical role in pioneering the railway industry. Today, Avanti West Coast continues to champion progressive attitudes within the railway workforce.

From Avanti careers on the rails themselves to office personnel, this article celebrates the contributions of women in rail and train operations.

Women working with Avanti

Avanti actively encourages women to pursue careers across all departments, from apprenticeships to leadership roles. Many inspiring women have helped reduce the gender gap within the railway industry. A third of the new trainee drivers at Avanti’s West Coast are women, and we are on track to raise female trainee recruits by 50% by 2030.

Inspired by trailblazing women of the past

The progress women have made in the rail sector today is built on the achievements of those who paved the way.

Karen Harrison was a driving force behind women in the railway. She was a trailblazer who overcame prejudice while campaigning for the rights of women and minorities in rail.

In 1979, Karen became one of the UK’s first female drivers, marking a turning point for women in the industry. Though she sadly passed away in May 2011, her legacy lives on.

To honour her legacy, Avanti collaborated with Network Rail to unveil a mural of Karen Harrison at Euston Station. The display celebrates female train drivers and commemorates International Women's Day in 2023.

Danni Mcloughlin

Danni Mcloughlin is a project manager and planner, whose career at Avanti West Coast career spans over a decade. She began as a customer service dispatch assistant before working up to her current role.

She shared her journey in the book, 100 More Women, 100 More Journeys, to inspire and encourage women to pursue careers in the rail business. Her book discusses her own career as well as the stories of other women who embarked on similar journeys.

Chloe McKinlay

Chloe McKinlay encourages young women considering a career in rail to “not be afraid to challenge gender stereotypes.” Chloe joined the Avanti West Coast Train Driver Training scheme in August 2020, aspiring to follow in her father’s footsteps and becoming the first father-daughter driving duo for the West Coast Main Line operator. She emphasises train driving is a rewarding profession, offering responsibility and job satisfaction.

Careers and working with Avanti

Becoming a train driver was once a major milestone for women. Today, more pathways are available, and Avanti West Coast career is committed to providing inclusive career opportunities in various roles.

Recognising the gender imbalance within the workforce, Avanti actively encourages women to apply for train driver positions. In 2023, alone, over 1,000 women applied for new driver roles.

Additionally, the award-winning Avanti apprenticeships scheme helps aspiring rail professionals gain hands-on experience and qualifications. Many women have launched successful careers through this initiative.

To further promote gender diversity, Avanti teamed up with Alstom and Angel Trains to host interactive discovery days on and off the rails. These events educate young women about career prospects  within the railway industry.

Avanti West Coast remains committed to welcoming women into the  exciting world of rail. From school leavers to industry experts, the door is always open for new talent and growth opportunities.

Get on Track With Avanti Careers Today

Whether taking control of one of our Pendolino trains on the West Coast Main Line or working behind the scenes, a diverse team makes for successful railway operators.

Browse the Avanti careers hub to find job opportunities and Avanti apprenticeships, and see where a role within Britain’s forward-thinking railway industry can take you today.