My name is Kyle Buchan and I’m entering my final year studying Business Management and Geography at the University of Aberdeen. I applied to the Saltire Scholars Programme because I wanted to have the opportunity to talk to industry professionals about their career paths and gain a better understanding of the roles available to me after university. I hoped this experience would provide me with the opportunity to improve my communication and networking skills whilst building on my previous professional experiences. The Saltire Scholar Programme has exceeded my expectations and has provided me with invaluable work experience that I am confident will help me in my career.
This summer I interned at Network Rail in the Planning and Logistics team. My main project was to conduct a data cleanse exercise with the view to update Network Rail’s EV infrastructure investment strategy. This included reviewing Road Fleet data for all 918 Network Rail vehicles across Scotland to assist in improving financial visibility and traceability. I also created a feedback survey to collect user insights to improve future EV adoption, infrastructure, and support. I then analysed the responses and presented my findings to my team to inform better decision-making. I also developed and implemented a QR code Feedback system to gather user insights from an HVO trial to determine its long-term viability as an alternative fuel source. Other projects included creating a centralised database of all pool vehicles to reduce STH costs and enhance visibility, tracking, and management efficiency. Lastly, another project I worked on included identifying underutilised vehicles by analysing usage patterns and non-operational days, I provided strategic recommendations to optimise fleet size and achieve cost savings. This internship was related to my degree subjects, and I was therefore able to apply what I had learned at university to the workplace as a result. However, I also learned about other disciplines that I hadn’t previously explored, such as strategy, and what large-scale freight operations can look like. The exposure I’ve had to these different areas has greatly benefitted me as I have gained a better understanding of how different teams work together to achieve a common goal.
My data cleanse has enabled my team to make decisions that are now based on accurate and reliable data that can be trusted for both project cost calculations and for setting realistic timeline expectations. This outcome was the most rewarding part of the internship as I know that the work I have completed during my ten weeks at Network Rail will continue to aid in the organisation’s progression even after I return to university. I also enjoyed meeting people from different teams around the organisation and learning about their career paths and how they got into their current roles, as well as any advice and suggestions they could offer me for my career.
This internship has helped me grow personally and professionally. As my main project was centred around gathering and cleansing data, I have been able to improve my analytical skills whilst simultaneously strengthening my communication and project management skills. My appreciation for having correct and accurate data at hand has increased as I now understand the significant effect it can have on operational strategies.
I would encourage anyone considering applying to the Saltire Scholars Programme to make the most of every interaction you have and each project you work on. This isn’t just an internship; it’s an opportunity to branch out into other areas outside your comfort zone and a chance for you to explore different roles that interest you. My advice would be to ask as many questions as you can, and you will get the most out of your internship. Speaking to team members and colleagues can be the best way to find out more about the company and what day-to-day life is really like. Your time is limited so don’t be afraid to reach out and arrange meetings: make the most of it. To me, being a Saltire Scholar means being a part of a group of like-minded people who are committed to learning and broadening their horizons.
