Recruitment
“The Weather Operations Delivery Mangers or WODMs as they are known have transformed the way we manage weather related events on Scotland's Railway. Scotland is the only Network Rail route or region with WODMs so they are unique. The WODMs are weather specialists who bring their expertise to the railway. They work 24/7 providing full time coverage from our control centre.
Weather patterns are changing we are experiencing more frequent extreme weather events including intense downpours and high winds. The WODMs are subject matter experts and give valuable insight and meteorological advice to Route Control in relation to weather and its impact on eth safe running of trains on the operational network. They monitor live weather models along side asset monitoring data and are able to react dynamically to any situations as they arise during challenging weather. The expert advice they have provided has allowed the region to strategically plan operational movements and impose targeted speed restrictions ensuring our passengers and freight travel safely.
Their passion, expertise and enthusiasm shines through every storm.“
“Since the creation of this team in 2020, following the Carmont derailment, they have made a significant contribution to improvement in how we predict and react to extreme weather. As a team, they are highly valued by their colleagues in Control, Asset Management and Maintenance in the support they provide us. As individuals, they are conscientious, diligent and very proactive in the way they continually look to improve processes and support others. At a time when most people are stretched, they stand out in how they are willing to take on work and support others.
Two recent examples of the impact they have made. Firstly, in applying speed restrictions during a convective weather event this summer on the West Highland Line, a train which encountered a significant washout near Spean Bridge was able to stop in advance of the damaged section. Secondly, they have suggested, and taken on, enhanced forecasting/monitoring of air temperatures in support of our tunnel icing extreme weather procedure, which has resulted in more accurate monitoring of this risk.
In short, the job that they do, and the way that they carry it out has made my job a lot easier.“
“The Weather Operations Delivery Manager Team provide Scotland's Railway with 24-7 professional meteorological advice.
Interpreting weather data is a complex detailed process, often with lots of sources of information to be reviewed. This is a real skill when embedded in a dynamic operational environment.
Our WODMs help and collaborate with many teams every single day. I have witnessed multiple times the welcome assistance they give, as they advise colleagues who are on call and those participating on EWAT calls, helping all to make confident decisions.
I was lucky enough to recently visit them to understand the role the WODMs perform. One of the Control Duty Managers proudly shared how the WODMs have made a really positive impact, and have established themselves as a key part of the Integrated Control team.
The WODM team also recently supported our Lineside and Drainage Conference giving a great presentation on what they do, ideas for the future and how they help Scotland's Railway to deliver a great service for our passenger and freight customers.
Their role is at present unique within Network Rail and their hard work has rightly generated real interest from colleagues from many other Regions.
Scotland's WODM Team would be deserved winners of this award!!“
“Great night with clients and colleagues at the RailStaff Awards last Thursday!”
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