Archie Conquest
2026 Saltire Scholar
Engineering & Asset Management Intern, Network Rail
Robotics, Autonomous, and Interactive Systems, Heriot-Watt University
As a 3rd year student pursuing an MEng in Robotics, Autonomous, and Interactive Systems at Heriot-Watt University, my decision to apply to the Saltire Scholar Programme was driven by a desire to develop my technical foundations within a high-stakes engineering environment. Joining Network Rail’s Engineering & Asset Management team in Glasgow for a ten-week placement presented an incredible opportunity to contribute to Scotland’s Railway. Entering the internship, I found my internship to be highly technical; writing code, analysing datasets, and building dashboards.
My project focused on improving how asset performance and weather reliability are monitored across the network. Rather than simply producing static reports, my goal was to integrate failure data, weather impact tracking, and predictive forecasting to help teams make proactive maintenance decisions. However, the biggest test came from attempting to translate complex analytics and data-flows into clear, actionable insights for colleagues who don't spend their days in data pipelines. I had to step out of my academic bubble, engage directly with stakeholders, gather requirements, and learn how to present technical information in a way that truly supported operational decision-making.
This experience has massively improved my self-confidence and professional identity. Moving from a student mindset focused solely on studying and assignments to a professional mindset centered on real-world impact and decision-making has been an invaluable experience. I have left Network Rail not only proud of the tools I created, but with a newfound belief in my ability to navigate complex organisational challenges, collaborate across teams, and advocate for innovative ideas.
Reflecting on the summer, being a Saltire Scholar has meant to me having the courage to step into the unknown and turn ambiguity into an opportunity to attempt to add real value. My advice to future scholars is to never measure success solely by your technical output; measure it by the relationships you build, how well you adapt when things don't go to plan, and the confidence you gain along the way. This summer has solidified my ambition to pursue a career in data-driven engineering, equipping me with the transferable leadership skills needed to make a meaningful difference.