The firm’s engineering apprenticeship scheme has been recognised as outstanding following a year-long independent assessment

West Midlands Railway (WMR) has become the first train operator in the UK to achieve gold “Excellent Employer” status.

This comes after its engineering apprenticeship scheme was assessed by industry body Next Gen Makers over a 12-month period.

The accreditation is based on feedback from existing apprentices and recognises companies delivering outstanding training. 

WMR’s four-year salaried scheme, delivered in partnership with Birmingham Metropolitan College, combines classroom and practical learning at its Tyseley depot in south Birmingham.

The result follows WMR’s £70 million investment in upgrades at Tyseley, completed in October 2025, which included an extended main shed and new train lifting equipment.

Gold standard for the next generation

John Doughty, engineering director at WMR, said: “I started my career as an apprentice, so I know how valuable these opportunities are, and I am so proud that our team has achieved this gold standard.”

Mike Townsend, deputy director for business development at BMet, added: “This is a fantastic achievement and a well-deserved recognition of WMR’s dedication to supporting early careers talent and raising standards across the industry.”