EAL’s move into the rail industry has seen the appointment of a new member to the Board of Directors at the specialist awarding organisation for industry qualifications.
Dr Ben Dunlop, Electrification Director for Atkins’ rail business, will join EAL as the organisation embarks on its journey into the rail qualifications market.
He joins the Board alongside Julia Chippendale, who was announced as EAL’s new Managing Director at the start of September 2013.
Dr Dunlop said: “The rail industry needs skilled engineers to deliver its maintenance and investment plans, so the challenge now is to encourage the next generation into the sector. EAL is supporting employers do just that with the release of its new rail qualifications and I am delighted to be joining the Board at this exciting time. ”
Alastair Imrie, Chairman of EAL, added: “I am pleased to welcome Dr Dunlop to EAL’s Board of Directors. I am sure he will provide expert guidance that will be invaluable to our organisation as we look to establish EAL as the awarding body of choice for all train companies, builders, operators and training providers within the industry.”
Dr Dunlop has been working in the rail industry for more than 25 years. Throughout his career, he has been involved in delivering major projects including the West Coast Route Modernisation, Thameslink and Crossrail.
As Electrification Director for Atkins’ rail business, he is currently responsible for the creation of a new business dedicated to targeting the UK and international electrification market place.
EAL announced its entry into the rail qualifications market at The National Skills Academy for Railway Engineering (NSARE) annual conference in London on September 24th 2013.
