First Few Weeks
On the 10th of June 2024, I began my Asset Assurance Summer Internship with Network Rail. The first day involved hearing talks from key leaders within the company, and networking with fellow Saltire Scholars over lunch. We were also given PPE equipment, work laptops and some Network Rail merchandise.
A highlight of my first week was taking part in an interactive ‘Service Animals’ workshop with the other Saltire interns. The aim of the workshop was to understand our natural work styles, and how we can better adapt to others to build rapport faster. My service animal is an Owl (go Owls!), which means I am a strong listener. I am also detail orientated, analytical and process driven. However, Owls also tend to be more reserved, and can come across as unapproachable. To adapt to others, I learnt that I should open up more to others and actively engage in conversation. I will seek to implement what I learnt at this workshop throughout my 10 weeks at Network Rail by contributing to meetings, and by attending more networking sessions.
I will be conducting essential tasks which will support my line managers in their day to day operations. This will include conducting a data cleanse, creating a stakeholder map, and a SIPOC.
One of the biggest challenges this week has been understanding all of the different acronyms the host company uses. Luckily, everyone is extremely helpful and friendly, so if I ever have had any questions I was free to ask.
Throughout my Asset Assurance Summer Internship at Network Rail, the past six weeks have been incredibly rewarding. I have almost completed my data cleanse by removing expired and invalid items from a spreadsheet and have collected all the data that will feed into the map I am creating for the assurance reporting process.
I've also had the chance to participate in some fun activities. While I am not the biggest fan of heights, having the opportunity to go up the Forth Rail Bridge and see this marvel of engineering was truly an amazing experience. We also visited Network Rail’s signalling centre in Glasgow. Speaking with the signallers about their roles and learning about the graduate scheme was incredibly informative. I was part of a Climate Change flashmob, where my colleagues and I gathered outside on St Vincent Street to recreate the Climate Stripes developed by Ed Hawkins. This was an effective way to raise awareness about global warming, something I am personally extremely passionate about. Additionally, I participated in a communications project, contributing to stock photos that will be used in Network Rail’s future marketing and promotional materials.
