The RailStaff Awards 2024

Kevin McSorley

Said the following about Gareth Richardson:

“I HAVE NOMINATED GARETH FOR THIS AWARD BECAUSE OF THE KNOWLEDGE HE HAS WITHIN THE RAIL SECTOR. GARETH IS ALWAYS ON HAND TO ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS. ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS LOOK AT THE TXM EQUIPMENT AT ANY JOB SITE AND YOU CAN SEE THE EFFORT THAT'S PUT IN BY GARETH AND HIS TEAM TO KEEP THE EQUIPMENT IN GREAT CONDITION.“

Bill Phenix

Said the following about Gareth Richardson:

“As the Managing Director of TXM Plant Ltd, Gareth Richardson has been instrumental in driving the company forward in Safety, Plant Reliability, Innovation and Investment in People.

TXM Plant achieved the milestone of Zero AFR in May 2015. To build on this achievement, Gareth championed the introduction of the Mobile Safety Briefing Van and the Close Call app to help TXM Plant to maintain the Zero AFR.

The introduction of the Pre-Upgrade program, where RRV equipment is stripped and thoroughly inspected, then re-built with the automatic replacement of major components such as starter motor, alternator, turbocharger, fuel pump and fuel lines, has made a significant difference to equipment which has gone through the RIS1530 upgrade process. Also, working with the supply chain, new equipment is manufactured to a higher quality for reliability, and product specialists have been recruited to work with TXM Plant and its clients on the correct application of 3D GPS systems and ALO RCI systems.

With the introduction of the “Monster Crane”, Gareth’s innovative vision of a heavy lifting, telescopic RRV crawler crane has now been realised. The first of four units has already proved itself successful; performing lifts which could not be previously covered by existing RRV equipment. The compact RRV unit is able to utilise RRAP’s which are inaccessible by other larger RRV units, and the lack of outriggers also benefits in set up time for clients. The ability to tandem lift and also lift and carry now opens up alternatives for Tier 1 Contractors to reduce the time and cost of the complex heavy crane duties required for CP5 program.

Recognising the looming skill shortage for craft apprentices, Gareth has championed the TXM Apprentice Program. Twelve craft fitting apprentices will be recruited and trained each year throughout CP5 to help address the forthcoming skills shortage in the RRV industry. No other RRV supplier has made this level of commitment to the future reliability of the RRV industry.“

Steve Smith

Said the following about Gareth Richardson:

“Its a pleasure to work with Gareth Richardson at TXM Plant.

Gareth is a true professional within the Rail plant industry and builds confidence, excellence and passion in all his team members.

I have had the pleasure to work alongside Gareth for the last 3 and 1/2 years and have enjoyed watching Gareth develop into a first class business man.

I would like to thank Gareth on behalf of the board for all of his efforts these last years.

Thank you Gareth“

James Johnston

Said the following about Gareth Richardson:

“Gareth truly is one of the most passionate and knowledgeable individuals. His skill and expertise is recognised throughout the industry.

Gareth understands the needs of all of his colleagues individually. His pleasant and approachable manner means he can get the best out of everyone. He is always willing to go that 'xtra mile'. I myself have come on leaps and bounds under Gareth's management.

Thank you Gareth for these past three years.“

Patricia Thompson

Said the following about Gareth Richardson:

“Gareth is the consummate professional with in depth and wide ranging rail industry experience at all levels where he has achieved the level of Managing Director having worked his way up through the ranks.

Our cohort of apprentices this year after Directors gave a brief on their function at Induction stage, without exception all wanted to aspire to Gareth''s level and they could see that it was indeed possible to do so if they were prepared to put in the hard work and commitment and the energy in the room was electrifying, not many MD''s can make employees feel so enthused.

I have worked for many Managing Directors in my career and all did a great job but with Gareth it is more than just a job; it is his passion, commitment and wanting to continuously improve the business while offering encouragement as well as his drive and genuine character is impressive plus seeing first hand how he has been instrumental in the development of TXM Plant as a company through working in partnership with his direct team allowing them the freedom to manage their own function, workforce and clients is truly inspirational. Gareth is always supportive offering sound guidance and steering everyone's true potential, Gareth is a good listener with a great sense of humour and for these reasons and so much more I nominate Gareth for a very well deserved award.“