Rob Nicklin

Said the following about Ian Puckrin:

“Ian Puckrin deserves national recognition as an inspirational man due to his continued positive contribution to the UK rail industry for over 25 years, and for his selfless contribution to his local community. Ian works tirelessly in his career to develop new engineers and incorporate modern technology, whilst outside of work being a charity ambassador and volunteer for people with learning disabilities.

His dedication to development and inclusivity is extended and reflected through his involvement in charity work and activities outside of the rail industry. Balancing a busy family life, with fitness training and a high-profile career, Ian organises multiple events through Humbledon Outdoor Activities Association (HOAA) for adults with learning disabilities. Weekend camps with HOAA include activities such as walks suitable for wheelchair users, orienteering events and kayaking in a fun and inclusive atmosphere. These activities are always well received by those that attend, with smiles all around.

Ian has pioneered health and wellbeing workshops across Network Rail; these events are inclusive and organised for the benefit of everyone. Workshops include sessions on exercise and nutrition, mental health, including how to cope with stress, and sessions on manual handling. Ian collaborates with Network Rail’s occupational health providers, professional coaches, and qualified nutritionists, to ensure the information and knowledge shared is targeted and accurate. These workshops educate attendees to make minor changes to benefit their health and wellbeing.

Recognising that professional development can be a daunting experience, Ian regularly organises meetings to introduce new Apprentices and Graduates in Network Rail to experienced Engineers from across the business, supporting them in obtaining mentors and facilitating placements. Ian’s development of others is designed to help young Engineers establish a network. He also organises various career building days for Apprentices which include sessions on how to create personal development plans, team building exercises, and activities such as orienteering challenges to recognise that a leader needs to be equipped with more than just technical skills.

Ian has a passion for using technology to make railway maintenance easier, more efficient, and safer. He championed the exploration of robotics on the railway to enhance the day-to-day work of maintenance staff through less manual handling, reduction in the use of vibrating equipment, and less time spent trackside. Ian has used this project to enable experienced maintenance staff to give their opinion on innovative projects. Ian nurtures an environment where everyone feels comfortable to learn and get involved regardless of experience.

Ian has organised and hosted innovation events to highlight new predict and prevent technology, and empower engineers to solve problems, improve train performance and overall customer experience across Leeds to the best levels in the North of England. Ian launched an initiative to improve the performance of rail switches and crossings by challenging engineers to maintain these assets as a system entity, using a multi-discipline approach. This pioneering collaboration is on a scale not previously achieved with any level of real success. Ian has the enthusiasm, desire, and charisma to enable others to appreciate his vision for a high performing and cost-efficient railway.“