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​Bridging the Talent Pipeline: Solving the Water Sector’s Workforce Crisis Ahead of AMP 8​As a sales professional within UK infrastructure, I spend my days talking with business leaders about their biggest challenges. Lately, one industry keeps coming up - the water sector. And let’s be honest, the headlines haven’t been kind. The UK’s water industry is at a critical point, heading into AMP 8 (Asset Management Period 8, the next regulatory investment cycle set by Ofwat, running from April 2025 to 2030). This period represents both challenge and opportunity, with a proposed investment of £104bn, the largest in the industry's history. However, one of the biggest concerns is whether the sector has the skilled workforce required to deliver these ambitious plans. ​The situation currently ​Pipes, treatment plants, and reservoirs are struggling to cope with increasing demand, climate change pressures, and stricter environmental regulations. According to Surveyorks UK “Water firms in England and Wales lost more than 1tn litres from leaks last year.” Crazy, right? The impact on consumers is impossible to ignore. Water companies are raising bills to fund urgent repairs, but for households already struggling with the cost-of-living crisis, these hikes hit hard. Trust in the industry is dwindling, with growing frustration over pollution, service interruptions, and a lack of transparency. ​AMP 8: The Workforce Bottleneck ​Significant investment is needed - not just to repair and maintain existing infrastructure, but to future-proof the industry for generations to come. While AMP 8 presents an opportunity to modernise the industry, the biggest hurdle isn't just funding or regulations - it's people. The water sector will need an estimated 50,000 additional workers to deliver AMP 8’s projects, spanning disciplines such as civil engineering, project management and digital transformation. ​To put it into perspective: ​The UK already faces a significant skills gap in engineering and infrastructure. 30% of the existing water sector workforce is set to retire in the next decade. Recruitment must scale rapidly to meet demand, particularly in leakage management, clean water infrastructure, and wastewater treatment upgrades. ​This was further highlighted when I attended the Institute of Water seminar towards the end of last year in Newcastle, where I had the opportunity to speak to industry leaders and listen to their concerns and feelings towards AMP8. It is clear that the biggest concern is the skills shortage, with a particularly insightful conversation about transferring skills from other sectors, such as rail and highways, proposed as a way to address the current shortage. ​At Ganymede, we have a dedicated team focused on the water sector. We understand the challenges ahead and are committed to being part of the solution. ​How? By attracting, selecting, connecting, and retaining the very best talent in the market. From Civil Engineers and Project Managers to Leakage Specialists and Regulatory Experts, we ensure water companies have access to the right people at the right time. ​The road ahead won’t be easy, but with the right workforce in place, the industry can rebuild trust, modernise infrastructure, and create a sustainable future.​If you're in the water sector and looking for top talent to drive change, let’s talk. I’m ready to help. ​Connect with Emma​emma.marshall@ganymedesolutions.co.uk07814 890 287Connect with Emma on LinkedIn​

Ganymede Successfully Passes Annual RISQS Supplier Audit​​We are delighted to share that Ganymede has once again successfully completed and passed our annual Railway Industry Supplier Qualification Scheme (RISQS) Supplier Audit. This accomplishment reinforces our commitment to upholding the highest standards of compliance, safety, and operational excellence within the UK rail industry.A RISQS audit is a crucial qualification process for suppliers working within the UK Rail Infrastructure. Maintaining this certification is essential for us to continue providing top-tier labour and recruitment services to our valued clients and fulfilling our contractual commitments with Network Rail and other clients.This achievement wouldn’t be possible without the dedication and hard work of our incredible Compliance & HSEQ Teams, whose commitment ensures that we meet and exceed industry standards year after year, as well as the unwavering support of our wider business. Passing the RISQS Supplier Audit once again reinforces our credibility, reliability, and professionalism as a trusted partner in the rail sector. Our clients can continue to rely on us for fully compliant, highly skilled, and safety-conscious personnel, ensuring that projects run smoothly and safely.To learn more about the rail sector we support, visit our dedicated Rail page.

The RTC Group Awards 2024​​On Friday 7th March 2025, we held our annual RTC Group Awards, rewarding those who have gone above and beyond throughout 2024.​Held at our headquarters, the Derby Conference Centre, we gathered for a night of celebration and reflection as we looked back on the past twelve months and all that the group has achieved across the various industries we support.We were joined by employees from each of the group’s offices from across the country and overseas, welcoming the teams from RTC Group Plc, Ganymede Solutions, ATA Recruitment, Global Staffing Solutions and The Derby Conference Centre.​Ganymede and ATA Awards​The evening began with the Ganymede and ATA Awards, where we awarded the top performing individuals across the recruitment businesses as well as those who have personified our core values over the last twelve months.Congratulations to the winners of the Ganymede and ATA Awards:150k Club: Brad Minns, Karla Delczeg, Natasha Higgins, Michael Anderson, Luke Corr, Mark Hibbert, Sam WalleyPeople are our Passion:Ashton KenneySocially Responsible:Lauren BradfordTop Newcomers: Zac Polnyj & Charlie CorbettTop Team Performance:Energy (1st Place), Rail - Scotland Office(2nd Place), Rail - Kent Office (3rd Place)Delivering Excellence:Brodie KnightSafety First, Safety Always: Victoria RichardsTaking Pride:Lina OprisnykTop 10 Individual Billers:​ Jon Caruso, Andy Crewe (Top Perm Biller), Tyler Cook, Hassan Choudhry, Will Heath, Tom Cleverley, Dave Carter, Colin Earp, Michael Dobson, Katie Townend (Top Contract Biller & Top Overall GP)Paul Crompton, Managing Director said:  "It was a pleasure to spend the evening with colleagues from across the company. Congratulations to all the award winners on their well-deserved recognition. Your hard work and commitment, both individually and as part of your teams, have been key to our success in 2024, and I look forward to building on these achievements in the year ahead."​The RTC Group Awards​The evening continued with the Group Chairman & CEO address, three course meal and RTC Group Award, presenting for the first year the Douie Award.​Douie Award: Katie Townend​​Thank you to all those who attended this event, and for making the evening a resounding success. The RTC Group Awards will return in 2026.​​​​​​​​

​Accelerating Action: Ganymede's Women in Rail Reflect on IWD and 200 Years of Railway Progress​As we mark International Women's Day, the rail industry reflects on the progress made in gender equality while acknowledging the work still ahead. This year’s theme, #AccelerateAction, calls for meaningful steps to drive progress, ensuring that women in rail not only have a place at the table but can thrive in leadership, engineering, and operational roles. With Railway 200 marking two centuries of railway history, it is an opportunity to reflect on how far women have come in the industry. At Ganymede, we spoke with three inspiring women in rail to hear their thoughts on gender equality, the evolution of women’s roles in the sector, and what the next 100 years might hold: Charlotte Cruise, Client Relationship Manager; Tyler Cook, Principal Consultant; and Karla Delczeg, Recruitment Consultant.​International Women’s Day: A Time for Reflection and Action​This year’s theme, #AccelerateAction, calls for bold steps to push gender equality forward. Our interviewees highlighted key areas that need focus:Tackling the gender pay gap: Tyler Cook said that "closing the gender pay gap is the biggest thing we can do towards achieving gender equality. Whilst it is a step to legally have to publish the gender pay gap as a company (with over 250 employees), there shouldn’t be a gap to post about."More male allies in the workplace: Charlotte believes, "to accelerate action, it is incredibly important for women to have male allies in the workplace that will support gender equality drives."Recruitment and retention strategies: "Stronger recruitment and retention initiatives to attract and keep more women in rail", says Karla.Flexibility in working arrangements: Tyler also said "Trying to raise a family and have a career alongside doesn’t fit into the constraints of non-flexible working. Companies are missing out on amazingly talented and hardworking women due to the inability to bend out of a Mon – Fri / 9-5 routine.”Mentorship and career progression support: “Nationally, we are just rolling out this year's mentorship programme, which is a fantastic support for women already in the sector looking to grow their careers,” Charlotte mentions when talking about Women in Rail.Charlotte and Karla at a WIR event​​​​​​​​​200 Years of Railway Progress: The Role of Women​The rail industry has been shaped by women in ways that are often overlooked. During World War I, women took on critical roles in railway operations while men were at war, proving their capability in an industry traditionally dominated by men. Despite this, their presence in the sector remains relatively low, with women making up only around 16-17% of the workforce as of a recent National Skills Academy for Rail (NSAR) report.With Railway 200 celebrating two centuries of railway innovation, the industry is now looking ahead to the next 100 years. The hope is that by the time Railway 300 arrives, gender equality will be embedded at every level—from apprenticeships to executive roles. Increasing the number of women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers is a key part of this vision. As rail technology advances, there is a growing demand for expertise in areas such as AI-driven systems, sustainable transport, and digital infrastructure. Encouraging more women to enter STEM fields and pursue leadership opportunities will be essential in shaping the future of rail.​Tyler taking part in track training​The Role of Women in Rail and Industry Initiatives​Organisations like Women in Rail are instrumental in fostering change and continues to be a driving force in championing gender diversity. Tyler is proud to be part of the WIR team and to hopefully lead the way for the generation behind us to enter work places which are equal, supportive and understanding. Initiatives such as mentorship programs, networking events, and industry partnerships are essential in helping to create a more inclusive and supportive workplace. Programs like the Big Rail Diversity Challenge brings together hundreds of professionals to focus on the benefits of diverse teams, reinforcing the importance of inclusivity in the workplace. Charlotte said that last year there was around 600 participants for this event and that it was a fantastic day to come together to focus on diversity.As the rail industry evolves, so must its approach to diversity and inclusion. The next steps require bold leadership, cultural shifts, and structural changes to ensure that women not only enter the rail sector but thrive within it. The commitment to accelerating action must go beyond just one day—it needs to be an ongoing effort to create lasting change.​Charlotte at Never Mind The GapKarla and Charlotte at the Big Rail Diversity Challenge ​​​​​​​​​​Looking Ahead​With technological advancements and new opportunities emerging, the rail industry is at a turning point. A diverse workforce is key to driving innovation and ensuring sustainability. The women shaping today’s rail sector are paving the way for future generations, proving that rail is a career path for everyone.Karla's advice to young women when considering a career in rail:Be bold and curious—there are so many career paths beyond what people typically imagine.Seek mentors and networks—connecting with professionals in the industry can provide guidance and open doors.Embrace new technology—innovation is shaping the future of rail, and women should be at the forefront of this transformation.At Ganymede, we’re committed to supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion across the rail industry. As we mark International Women’s Day 2025 and Railway 200, we celebrate the contributions of women in rail and reaffirm our commitment to accelerating action towards a more equal future.Find out more about Railway 200 and our commitment to the rail sector by following our blog.Read our previous blog: ​Ganymede's Headquarters

Ganymede’s Headquarters: A Historic Link to Rail’s Legacy​As we celebrate Railway 200, a milestone honouring two centuries of rail innovation and transformation, Ganymede is proud to spotlight the rich railway history of our headquarters – The Derby Conference Centre. This iconic building is not only a hub for our operations but also a living testament to Britain’s rail heritage.​A Legacy Built on RailLocated in the heart of Derby, a central hub for rail development, The Derby Conference Centre has long been a cornerstone of the UK’s rail industry. Originally constructed in the 1930s, the building was the LMS School of Transport, designed as the first purpose-built railway training college in the UK. For decades, it played a pivotal role in shaping the Engineers, Managers, and Railway Specialists who have driven the industry forward.​A Centre for Learning and InnovationIn its early days, the centre served as the British Rail School of Transport, equipping thousands of railway professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to support the country’s growing rail network. As the railway industry evolved, so did the centre, becoming a symbol of learning, innovation, and progress.Even today, Derby remains a key railway hub, home to major companies and institutions dedicated to rail technology and development. With Ganymede headquartered at the Derby Conference Centre, we are continuing this legacy—supporting the rail sector with specialist recruitment, workforce solutions, and a commitment to progress.​Transport Heritage Site Awarded to the Derby Conference Centre in 2009​Ganymede at the Heart of Railway 200As we mark 200 years of rail and reflect on how the industry has shaped the UK’s infrastructure, economy, and workforce, we are proud to operate from a building steeped in this history. Our work in rail recruitment, safety, and workforce development echoes the centre’s original purpose: nurturing the next generation of rail professionals and ensuring the industry continues to thrive.​Celebrating the Past, Shaping the FutureWhile we celebrate our railway past, we’re also actively supporting the future of the industry. At The Derby Conference Centre, there is an on-site test track for Rail TIC (Testing, Innovation & Certification) courses, helping to train and certify the next generation of railway professionals.This facility provides a hands-on learning environment our Engineers, Technicians, and Rail Experts can gain practical experience in testing, maintenance, and safety protocols. By providing this essential space, we’re proud to contribute to the ongoing evolution of railway innovation and ensure Derby remains at the forefront of the industry.​Ganymede Training on the TIC site at the Derby Conference Centre​Railway 200 is not just about looking back—it’s about embracing the future of rail. From sustainability and digital transformation to diversity and inclusion, we are committed to being part of the ongoing evolution of the sector.By operating from a landmark of railway heritage, Ganymede stands at the intersection of history and innovation, bridging the achievements of the past with the opportunities of the future. As we move forward in 2025 and beyond, we celebrate the incredible journey of the railway industry—and our role in shaping what comes next.​Join Us on the JourneyOver the next 12 months, as part of our Railway 200 series, we will be exploring key themes such as mental health, diversity, and sustainability in the rail industry. Stay connected as we highlight stories, insights, and progress that will define the next chapter of rail.Find out more about Railway 200 and our commitment to the rail sector by following our blog.Read our previous blog: ​Celebrating 45 years in the Rail Industry

​Celebrating 45 years in the rail industry​As we celebrate 200 years of the modern railway in 2025, we also take the time to honour individuals who have dedicated their careers to advancing this incredible industry. For Gary Lobue, what began as a stop-gap role with British Rail has evolved into a remarkable 45-year journey shaped by a passion for safety, innovation, and excellence in the rail sector. Joining Ganymede in 2017 as Head of HSEQ, Gary has been an integral part of the team, and we want to highlight his career in the rail industry.​Gary's British Rail ID Card​From Stop-Gap to Lifelong CareerGary’s journey into the rail industry wasn’t planned; it was by chance he joined British Rail in 1980. A conversation with his ganger early in his career planted the seed for what would become a lifelong career. His ganger’s story of surviving a train strike left a mark, inspiring Gary to prioritise safety in every aspect of his work.As his career progressed, Gary took on roles as a union and safety representative, eventually transitioning into supervisor and management positions. From this point on, Gary was very safety conscious in his work, whilst ensuring he got the operational and safety balance right to meet project and programme demand. A natural progression was to them become a trainer/assessor in track safety, then moving into HSEQ to pursue his career further.​The Evolution of Safety in Rail Reflecting on the changes in rail safety over the years, Gary highlights how far the industry has come. “Track safety has improved immensely,” he explains, mentioning risk minimisation being implemented in 2002 and the development of standards like the 019 Safety of People at Work on or Near the Line. Rule Books and Standards are regularly reviewed, updated, renewed and the introduction of RISQS and Sentinel have ensured the industry, and its suppliers are compliant to meet Network Rail requirements, enhancing a collective stance on safety.​Gary's Rail Competency Cards​The Role of Technology in HSEQAs you would expect, Gary has witnessed significant advancements in technology that have transformed rail safety. On-track machinery for engineering maintenance and construction have come a long way, and innovation of such machines has eliminated the need for a large workforce using mechanical methods to carryout engineering works. This reduces the risk of injury to workers and damage to the infrastructure. Similarly, personal protective equipment (PPE) from 45 years ago is worlds apart from what we expect in 2025, as shown in the picture below! Innovation has reshaped the industry, with all of these changes improving productivity and reliability, but most importantly, ensuring a safer railway.​PPE in the 1980s on Beighton Depot, British Rail​A Lifetime of AchievementOver the past 45 years, Gary has achieved numerous milestones, but some stand out as particularly meaningful. He became one of the youngest supervisors in British Rail’s Electrification Construction Department and earned a Trainer/Teacher Qualification as well as a Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety.However, being nominated for awards by his peers holds a special place in Gary’s heart. He says, “The most satisfying was being overwhelmingly nominated by my colleagues at Ganymede for the Safety First, Safety Always Award,” an award named after Ganymede's company ethos and one of our core values.​Advice for the Next GenerationTo those starting their careers in rail safety, Gary offers invaluable advice:Seek real-world experience: Gary believes individuals looking to start a career in a health and safety within rail should get experience where they can, to help them see how the business operates and understand the operational demands on a business.Observe human behaviour: Reflect on why people take risks and engage in unsafe acts, understand that safety and operations must be evenly balanced and can work together. Be approachable: Put the clipboard away, don’t be too judgmental, and remember that people rarely intend harm. People generally have best intentions but will have slips, lapses and make mistakes. Prioritise risk assessments: Two words: Risk Assessment, they are an integral part of health and safety.​A thank you to GaryGary Lobue’s career is a testament to the power of dedication, continuous learning, and a commitment to safety. As we celebrate his 45 years of service, we’re reminded of the profound impact one individual can have on an industry.From all of us at Ganymede and your friends across the rail industry, thank you, Gary, for your remarkable contributions to rail safety.