St Albans mum Aurora De Cardenas is among an increasing number of women changing careers and joining the rail industry.
Ms De Cardenas works as a facilities works officer, inspecting Metro Trains’ 222 stations across Melbourne and scheduling any works needed.
She joined Metro following the birth of her daughter 12 months ago.
Ms De Cardenas said not being chained to a desk has been one of the best aspects of her job.
“My office can be anywhere on the network – you never know where you’ll be,” she said.
Metro Trains is currently recruiting more than 60 positions from project managers to track inspectors and train drivers.
Metro Trains chief executive Raymond O’Flaherty said attracting those who wouldn’t have previously considered a career in the railways required marketing some roles differently.
“Industries like nursing and hospitality have really transferrable skills while still being safety-focused and would make great candidates for many roles we have as we provide a lot of the training,” he said.
In 2022, Metro clocked up an Australian first, recruiting its 500th female driver. It now employs 533 drivers. In 2009, when Metro began operating the trains in Melbourne, there were only 26 female drivers.
“At Metro, we want our team to reflect the community that we serve. This means committing to a more diverse and inclusive workplace and we hope that more people consider the benefits a rail career can offer,” Mr O’Flaherty said.
Ms De Cardenas is also hoping more women decided to take up a career in the rail industry
“I came with only my high school certificate. You get a lot of training in this job, you can move around within the company and try so many different things,” she said.
To apply, visit www.metrotrains.com.au/careers/
