YP in Rail: Joseph Conlon on contributing to rail’s next chapter

For Joseph Conlon, a Senior Digital Train Control Engineer, working in rail is more than just about technical problem-solving. He wants to contribute to systems that will be used, relied upon, and provide benefits for decades. His career began on the Rail Systems & Infrastructure Graduate Scheme at AtkinsRéalis, and he’s furthered his career at GHD, where he has found an environment that combines professional challenge with the scope to make a tangible impact. 

“Whilst a globally established firm, GHD is still in a growth phase in the UK,” Joseph says. “With fewer than 500 employees, you’re close to the action — not only delivering work, but helping win new projects and shape the direction of the business.”  

That blend of delivery and business development creates opportunities for staff to develop new skills and for clients to benefit from a team that understands the wider picture, from concept to completion.  

Collaborating on projects with lasting impact  

One example is the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) Rolling Stock Replacement Programme, where GHD has supported Transport for London in introducing 54 new trains and upgrading the Beckton Depot. Over the past few years, Joseph and his colleagues have led the System Safety and Technical Assurance workstream for the upgrades. This programme will enhance public transport in East London and benefit the community for decades to come.  

For clients, this kind of collaboration offers access to a technically capable team embedded in projects that require cross-disciplinary coordination, stakeholder engagement, and long-term thinking.  

An environment for learning and influence  

Beyond project work, Joseph is Secretary of the International Technical Committee for the Institution of Railway Signal Engineers (IRSE), where he contributes to strategy and technical direction. He also attends conferences, participates in CPD seminars, and exchanges ideas with peers, activities that are all supported by GHD’s culture of professional growth.  

Currently studying for a master’s degree in computer science at the University of Bath, Joseph is completing his final-year project, researching the application of convolutional neural networks to address railway operational issues. For him, this academic degree complements his role, expanding his understanding of how emerging technologies can be applied in a sector that is increasingly integrating digital and physical systems. 

Why opportunity matters in rail  

Joseph recognises that the transport sector faces significant challenges, from the funding complexities of major infrastructure projects to the need for a workforce with the right skills to deliver digital signalling works. But it’s also an environment where change opens the door for innovation and where the right collaborations can bridge capability gaps and provide lasting results. 

He advises early-career professionals to take opportunities that stretch their skills and to invest in professional relationships. “The industry is probably truly smaller than you think,” he says, “so take the time to nurture and maintain relationships with your peers.” 

Acerca de GHD

GHD es una empresa líder en servicios profesionales que opera en los mercados mundiales de agua, energía y recursos, medio ambiente, infraestructura y edificaciones, y transporte. Comprometidos con la visión de garantizar que el agua, la energía y las comunidades sean sostenibles para las futuras generaciones, GHD ofrece soluciones en consultoría, servicios digitales, ingeniería, arquitectura, medio ambiente y construcción a clientes del sector público y privado. Fundada en 1928 y propiedad de sus trabajadores, GHD cuenta con una red de más de 12.000 profesionales en más de 165 oficinas en cinco continentes.