Colin Kelly

Said the following about Paul Humes - **HAS LEFT**:

“Nomination from Colin Kelly, OLE Director, ISS Labour

(leading providers of track and civils contingent labour for overhead line electrification)

I’d like to nominate Paul Humes. He’s Training Manager at the ISS Labour Training Division and has been instrumental in the creation of our new, state-of-the-art indoor training centre in Manchester. The facilities, unique and unrivalled in the north of England, offer training to both new and experienced rail workers. They allow vital hands-on training to take place in all weathers, as well as in the classroom, all to the highest standards. It is an ultra-safe environment allowing us to cover all aspects of overhead line electrification (OLEC), as well as a number of other disciplines.

Paul’s key role at our training centre benefits both ISS Labour and the wider industry. It’s doubly important because the demand for skilled OLEC personnel is going to be even more crucial as electrification in the North continues to develop. We’re expecting large numbers of people to be trained at our centre over the next few years and Paul will play an essential part in the delivery of our plans – and the evolution of the railway.

With over 30 years’ Electrification experience, Paul is both highly experienced and highly regarded within the industry. He passes on his knowledge to trainees with passion and enthusiasm. Whilst always forward looking, Paul can reflect on his own training with British Rail and share his in-depth knowledge with a new generation of rail workers.

Anyone who has attended one of his courses will quickly confirm that Paul has a unique style that brings out the very best in his trainees. What’s more, his devotion to duty extends beyond the classroom as he’s also keen to provide post-training support and acts as a mentor for new recruits to the industry.

In addition to his work for ISS Labour in Manchester, Paul has also found time to be involved in the development of the Northern Rail Academy at Gateshead. Part of Newcastle College, it opened in 2014. The academy is the North East’s first ever dedicated rail engineering training hub, developing ‘work ready’ technicians and engineers to help meet the industry’s skill shortage. As part of our partnership with Newcastle Rail Academy, we will be giving 10 apprentices the chance to gain some real life OLEC experience working on our sites. Paul will provide mentorship to the new OLEC apprentices.

I could add to this list of Paul’s many qualities, those of dedication, hard work and total 100% professionalism. In my view he would be a more than worthy winner of this award.“

Chris Chidley

Said the following about Paul Humes - **HAS LEFT**:

“Nomination from Chris Chidley, Chief Executive, Specialist People Services Ltd (parent company of ISS Labour)

Just over a year ago I was both proud and excited to announce our plan for ISS Labour to develop a new indoor training centre in Manchester. Paul Humes was one of the key players in its development, establishment, launch – and now of its ongoing success.

Throughout his thirty year career, Paul has both instructed and enthused a new generation of linemen. Hardworking and always keen to help his trainees – both inside and outside the classroom – he passes on the benefit of his experience, instilling both safety awareness and a genuine sense of pride into his trainees.

He continues to make a massive contribution, both to our company and the industry in general. That’s why, in my view, Paul would be a deserving winner, and why I’m nominating him for this year’s award.“

Brian Madden

Said the following about Paul Humes - **HAS LEFT**:

“Nomination from Brian Madden, Program Manager, ISS Labour

Submitted by I've had the pleasure of attending 2 training courses run by Paul - my PTS Initial, and OLEC 1. I joined ISS Labour in mid-January 2015 and as a newcomer to the Rail industry, this was my first experience of the potential hazards and the unique challenges that our colleagues face on a daily basis. It was reassuring to have the benefit of someone of Paul's experience and knowledge to listen to, and interact with, throughout these courses.

His easy manner and confident delivery allows the learner to relax and focus on what is required, and his self-effacing style draws even the most quiet attendee into an open discussion.

Paul takes time to get to know the individuals with whom he is working, and he makes sure that all know they can contact him, at any time, if they have any questions about either the course or in their working environment. During the OLEC course he continually emphasised the potential career progression for each individual, the future benefits, and the never-ending quest for safety at all times. You could see the genuine increase in confidence amongst the attendees.

It is apparent to me that unfortunately not all in the industry have had the experience of this standard of training, with too many paying lip-service to the requirements, and leaving candidates ill-prepared for the challenges their working life brings. It is to his credit that Paul takes personal pride in the performance of each individual, and leaves the learner with the appetite to progress further, which is a benefit to the industry and the individual alike.“