Stuart Birch

Said the following about Jack Armitage:

“Jack Armitage started with Volker Rail as a Conversion Engineer on the Power Supply Upgrade project in October 2014 and was completely new to the railway. He has undertaken a process of rail and overhead line familiarisation and carried out work . Nearly two years on Jack has a presence and confidence about him beyond what you would expect, he is already respected by the OLE Linesmen and Supervisors making it seem like he has been around for years; this is coupled by clarity in his own mind about the current limits of his knowledge and experience.

Jack is content to take on all challenges that are presented to him; his intellect, proactive attitude and good communication skills are attributes that drive both him and the OLE team forward. His energy and enthusiasm comes across when you meet with him, undertaking many tasks in the office, attending meetings and site visits and reviewing designs under the watchful eye of his mentors. His commitment is further demonstrated by him volunteering to work through an intensive Christmas blockade, just a few months into his employment with VolkerRail. He was a key player in delivering last Christmas’ blockade OLE works

Jack has displayed a natural ability to work and communicate with his team and wider Alliance members, that belies his age; this has resulted in excellent engagement with his immediate OLE team, and has set a professional standard in the eyes of both our client and partners.

A good example that demonstrates this, is a piece of work named the SMOS (Structure Mounted Outdoor Switchgear) installation works. It was agreed that the Overhead Line team would install the majority of the SMOS componentry at three planned sites. Supported by his previous experience, but with limited knowledge of the technology, Jack took on the engineering and assurance role; through much research, discussions with manufacturers, interfacing disciplines and guidance and support from his mentor, Jack established a system using Inspection Test Plans (ITPs) which provided a structured installation and auditable assurance regime for the works. Jack carried out site visits and hand back meetings to ensure the quality of installation was to a high standard and all installation was successful.

He has also led the preparation and planning of the proposed training facility at Scunthorpe carrying out site surveys and attending meetings. Pulling the interfaces together on this has been very challenging.

Jack has also been verbally approved as “delegated CRE” by the Construction CEM which will be formalised soon. This alone is a major achievement which will be a platform to full CRE after more work on the PSU and further OLE construction exposure on the North West project.

On a personal level, Jack has a good sense of humour and is fundamentally one of the “good guys”. He is always happy to help any individuals with problems and is always in good spirits. He will certainly be a top Overhead Line Engineer for the future.“