Member Spotlight From Platform to Leadership: Brett Doak’ s Inspiring Rail Journey
• Confidence that the programme reflects current industry challenges
• A strengthened talent pipeline, ready to progress into leadership roles
• Improved employee engagement and retention through professional development
Employers also report that apprentices often bring fresh perspectives into their teams, challenging existing ways of working and encouraging innovation.
New Cohorts Starting Soon
Over the coming months, CIRO is launching two new Level 4 PTOM Apprenticeship cohorts:
• A dedicated programme for Network Rail Operations Management Graduates
• A mixed cohort bringing together learners from a range of rail employers
These groups will be among the first to benefit from the refreshed programme and the integration of CIRO Connect. Their journeys will help showcase how the updated apprenticeship can meet the needs of both large national operators and diverse employers across the rail sector.
Looking Ahead
The integration of CIRO Connect and the updated assessment approach mark the latest stage in CIRO’ s commitment to keeping its programmes relevant, contemporary, and impactful. But this is only the beginning. CIRO continues to work with industry partners to ensure apprenticeships remain aligned to emerging skills requirements, including digital transformation, decarbonisation, and future workforce planning.
For members, the refresh represents another step in raising professional standards across rail. For training and development professionals, it is a timely opportunity to invest in apprentices who will form the backbone of the industry’ s leadership in the years ahead.
The Level 4 PTOM Apprenticeship continues to provide an exceptional pathway for future leaders— now enriched with broader industry context, more engaging delivery, and an even sharper focus on workplace readiness.
Learn more and register interest: www. ciro. org / level-4
Training and development professionals can contact us at apprentice @ railwayoperators. co. uk to discuss opportunities for upcoming cohorts.
Member Spotlight From Platform to Leadership: Brett Doak’ s Inspiring Rail Journey
Brett Doak
At just 16, Brett Doak began his career as a Junior Station Assistant, driven by the simple goal of starting work and earning an income. What began as a practical choice soon evolved into a long-standing commitment to the railway industry.
Driving Positive Change in Rail
Brett has seen numerous developments positively shape the Australian rail sector, including the expansion of metro systems in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane; national harmonisation of network rules and procedures; and exploration of high-speed rail projects, including the alignment of digital technologies across networks.
These initiatives represent important steps towards a more connected and efficient rail system. Despite these advancements, he acknowledges two key challenges: reducing operational and procedural inconsistencies between states and addressing the growing demand for skilled workers in the sector.
Leadership Through the CIRO ANZ Council
Today, Brett is a proud member of the CIRO Australian and New Zealand Area Council. As a new member, he is passionate about helping the council grow and deliver value to the region. He believes the council fills a crucial gap, providing a platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and industry development that benefits rail professionals on both sides of the Tasman sea.
Advice for Future Rail Industry Talent
Brett’ s message to newcomers is clear: enjoy what you do, ask questions, pursue qualifications, and commit to growth. Be prepared for irregular hours and always attend duty on time.
He credits much of his success to mentors, people from all levels of the industry, whose guidance has shaped his career and instilled values that continue to guide him.
Outside work, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, gardening, woodturning, and enjoying the outdoors. www. ciro. org
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