After graduating in 2005 with a degree in Biochemistry, Mark Walsh began his career in the food industry, where he spent the next 17 years working in Quality Control. His roles spanned both factory-floor and office-based environments and involved extensive travel across the UK and Ireland, auditing supplier sites for ingredients, packaging, and other materials. While this work developed strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills, Mark gradually became disengaged from the long-term opportunities available within the industry.
Throughout this period, railways remained a constant presence in the background of his life. Alongside his professional career, Mark was actively involved in footplating on steam locomotives with the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland (RPSI). As a Locomotive Representative (“Loco Rep”), he accompanied mainline steam services to represent the RPSI’s interests and manage technical issues relating to the locomotives. These services were operated by Northern Ireland Railways (NIR), providing Mark with regular exposure to railway operations, although for many years this remained an interest rather than a career aspiration.
Two key factors prompted a shift in perspective: the Covid-19 pandemic, which resulted in extended periods of working from home, and the approach of a significant milestone birthday in early 2023. Together, these prompted Mark to reflect on his long-term career direction and consider whether a major change was both possible and timely. This reflection led him to explore opportunities within NIR.
In summer 2022, Mark was offered a role as Train Crew Programmer. The position involved rostering Drivers and Guards for timetabled and special services, as well as managing day-to-day changes arising from sickness, delays, or equipment failures. Accepting the role required a reduction in basic salary and a return to shift work, but Mark felt the potential for a more engaging and rewarding long-term career outweighed these considerations.
The transition into the rail industry was challenging at first, as expected, but quickly proved worthwhile. The role required extensive communication with Drivers, Guards, Railway Control, and Fleet Coordinators, and provided a strong foundation in understanding how railway operations function at a practical, people-focused level.
Within weeks of joining NIR, an internal vacancy for a Signaller at Belfast Central Signal Cabin was advertised. Although conscious that it was early in his railway career, Mark applied and successfully passed the interview and aptitude testing. He began signaller training in February 2023, undertaking an intensive programme focused on Rules and Regulations alongside practical application.
By June 2023, Mark was working in the cabin under the supervision of mentors, and by October, he had qualified and joined the 24/7 roster. Belfast Central Signal Cabin covered a large operational area and used a traditional NX panel, supported by CCTV level crossing operation. The role required constant vigilance, effective communication, and the ability to manage degraded working, and offered a strong sense of direct involvement in day-to-day railway operations.
Although the cabin is gradually being decommissioned, Mark still occasionally returns to provide cover and values the experience he gained there.
As signalling control was progressively transferred to the Northern Ireland Rail Operating Centre (NIROC), a new Signaller role was advertised in early 2024. Mark applied and was appointed in March 2024, returning to training to learn VDU workstation signalling using Siemens WESTCAD.
NIROC became operational alongside the opening of Belfast Grand Central Station (BGCS) in October 2024, replacing the former Great Victoria Street station. From an operational perspective, this marked a significant improvement. The old four-platform station frequently operated at the limits of its capacity during peak periods, requiring careful regulation to manage delays. The new eight-platform layout has removed a major bottleneck, providing increased resilience and capacity to manage disruption, late-running services, and operational incidents.
Being involved in this transition has been a highlight of Mark’s railway career. The change from Great Victoria Street to Belfast Grand Central Station is likely to be regarded as one of the most significant developments in the NIR network, and Mark considers it a privilege to have played a role in the changeover.
Mark initially joined CIRO as an Affiliate, recognising that membership of a professional institution would complement his operational experience and demonstrate a commitment to learning and development. He made extensive use of CIRO’s online resources and, after reviewing the criteria, applied to upgrade to Associate membership, which was confirmed earlier this year.
The upgrade has provided Mark with professional recognition and confidence in his career direction. He found the online resources both useful and engaging and has completed the RailPro: 12 Elements of Rail online course, which gave him a good insight into what a degree may entail. Mark also emphasised that resources such as CIRO TV and the Bulletins were particularly helpful, covering a wide range of interesting subjects, while guidance from the Learning and Development Team has further supported his ongoing development.
Mark encourages members to consider upgrading their CIRO membership where possible. Doing so demonstrates initiative, supports professional growth, and shows employers a willingness to invest in personal development. He also highlights the support available from CIRO’s information team for members who are unsure about eligibility, timing, or value.
Mark is currently considering further professional development, including the possibility of undertaking a degree in rail operations through CIRO for the 2026 intake. For now, with less than three years in the railway industry and experience across several roles, he is content in his current position. With NIROC expected to expand further, there is clear value in having been involved from its early stages.
For those considering a career in railway operations, Mark notes that roles can appear daunting or unclear from the outside. However, once inside the industry, the scale and variety of opportunities become apparent. Many operational roles, such as signalling, operate largely behind the scenes but are essential to the safe and effective running of the railway.
His advice is simple: take the opportunity, allow time to adapt, and remain curious. Over time, new roles and pathways will emerge that may shape future ambitions.
Accelerate your career journey by upgrading you CIRO membership. Find out how, and take the first step here: https://www.ciro.org/upgrade-your-membership/
