Rachel Smith
2026 Saltire Scholar
Works Delivery Intern, Network Rail
Product Design Engineering, University of Strathclyde
This summer I had the incredible opportunity to work with Network Rail as a Works Delivery Intern, working within the Shettleston Rail Plant Depot. Over the course of the ten week internship, I gained an appreciation for the complexity and diversity of the rail industry, as well as a clearer idea of my future career goals and aspirations. As a Product Design Engineering Student at the University of Strathclyde, I had been searching for an opportunity to gain industry experience in an engineering-related field to help me gain confidence and experience working in a live environment. When the Saltire Scholar opportunity was recommended to me, it felt like the perfect opportunity to push myself outside my comfort zone, and this marked the beginning of a transformative summer.
My role involved a wide variety of tasks, providing valuable exposure to different areas of the business and helping me develop a clearer understanding of both my strengths and the aspects of engineering I found most enjoyable. My main project focused on producing engineering drawings and electrical schematics for plant equipment and systems. I created engineering drawings to enable manufacture of two new plant equipment components and completed 10 detailed schematics documenting the full electrical system of a Ford Ranger. Although challenging, this work was incredibly rewarding and allowed me to make a meaningful contribution to the Plant Team.
Another key project focused on implementing new technology to allow for fully digital prestart checks of plant equipment. I collaborated with a partner company to introduce procedural checks for various assets on this new system, helping to improve efficiencies and compliance processes. Throughout these projects, the support and guidance of my team played a crucial role in my development. Their willingness to share their expertise not only strengthened my confidence but also gave me a deeper understanding of the technical requirements, industry standards, and problem-solving skills needed to successfully deliver engineering projects.
Network Rail provided many opportunities to explore different parts of the business and meet a diverse range of people. Visits to the West of Scotland Signalling Centre, Paisley CCTV Control Centre, and Glasgow Central Station gave me valuable insight into the day-to-day operations that keep the railway running safely and efficiently, many of which I had never previously considered. A particular highlight was visiting the Network Rail Innovation and Development Centre (RIDC) at Tuxford in Lincolnshire. Seeing the UK's largest rail testing facility firsthand gave me a greater understanding of the testing processes used to ensure trains, plant, and machines can operate safely and reliably on the railway, while also showcasing Network Rail's commitment to innovation.
Overall, my summer internship with Network Rail has been an incredibly rewarding experience. It gave me the opportunity to explore an industry I had never previously considered and develop a much deeper understanding of how the railway operates. Over the past 10 weeks, I have built confidence, formed positive connections, and gained valuable skills and experiences that I will carry forward into my final year at university and beyond. I would highly encourage anyone considering the Saltire Scholar Programme to apply, as it is a fantastic opportunity for both personal and professional growth.
