A Wolverhampton-based training provider National Infrastructure Solutions (NIS) is ramping up activities to help the rail sector meet an anticipated 120,000 shortfall in staff.

The company, launched by former youth international footballer and Royal Marine Commando Davie Carns in 2018, is looking to support hundreds of local workers to retrain and upskill to take advantage of a ‘once in a generation’ opportunity for the West Midlands.

NIS, which is already working with huge industry employers such as Rhomberg Sersa and Amey Rail on industry-specific courses, is also the lead partner at the City of Wolverhampton College’s (CoWC) new rail training centre at its Wellington Road Campus in Bilston. The facility is equipped with installation and maintenance equipment to support courses on conventional, high-speed and light-rail lines.

The college is also the first in the UK to offer training on slab track systems that are used in the construction of high-speed rail lines, such as HS2, directly adjacent to a conventional rail track for training purposes.

NIS and CoWC say this demonstrates their commitment to creating both opportunity and choice for students as they take their first steps into the rail industry.

Mr Carns explained: “Our region has a major employment opportunity with billions of pounds going into rail infrastructure projects planned for or passing through our area. Brexit is restricting the flow of European workers, meaning we are in a desperate rush to train people so they can enter employment in the sector and, equally importantly, upskill those already in the industry into more advanced roles to create sustainable careers for all.”

He continued: “What we have been doing over the last two years is listening to employers to develop a series of on-site and virtual courses that will equip individuals with core practical rail skills and qualifications covering leadership and management, health and safety and behavioural qualifications.”

Demand for NIS’ services has increased by 300% over the last 12 months and the firm has responded by trebling its own full-time workforce. It has so far trained 300 individuals, with 70% of participants going on to rewarding careers in the industry.

Courses are available for both newcomers to the sector who want to gain the skills employers are looking for, and those already working in the rail industry who want to upskill and develop their knowledge further.

NIS will also run free rail training courses for people who are registered as unemployed through a sector-based work academy programme (SWAP). The six-week scheme will offer pre-employment training, on-site work experience and a guaranteed job interview with an industry employer looking to recruit new staff.

Mr Carns added: “With my background, it is no surprise that one of our big passions is supporting former members of the Armed Forces to retrain for a career in rail and this is something we are looking to develop with the launch of our ‘Back on Track’ programme shortly.”