What are the key skills and competencies for rolling stock designers and engineers in the future?

1 Understanding user needs

One of the most important skills for rolling stock designers and engineers is to understand the needs, preferences, and expectations of the passengers and operators. This involves conducting user research, such as surveys, interviews, observations, and testing, to identify the problems and opportunities for improvement. User needs can vary depending on the type, purpose, and context of the service, such as urban, intercity, or high-speed rail. For example, urban passengers may value convenience, accessibility, and reliability, while intercity passengers may prioritize comfort, entertainment, and privacy.

2 Applying ergonomics and accessibility principles

Another key skill for rolling stock designers and engineers is to apply ergonomics and accessibility principles to optimize the physical and psychological well-being of the passengers and operators. Ergonomics is the science of designing products and systems that fit the human body and mind, while accessibility is the practice of ensuring that products and systems are usable by people with diverse abilities and needs. Ergonomics and accessibility principles can influence the design of various aspects of rolling stock, such as seating, lighting, temperature, noise, ventilation, signage, and controls.

3 Incorporating sustainability and innovation

A third key skill for rolling stock designers and engineers is to incorporate sustainability and innovation into their solutions. Sustainability is the ability to meet the present needs without compromising the future ones, while innovation is the creation of new or improved products and systems that add value. Sustainability and innovation can be achieved by using renewable energy sources, reducing emissions and waste, increasing efficiency and durability, and adopting new technologies and materials. For example, some rolling stock designs use solar panels, regenerative braking, lightweight composites, and digital platforms to enhance their performance and environmental impact.

4 Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams

A fourth key skill for rolling stock designers and engineers is to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams that include different stakeholders, such as clients, operators, regulators, suppliers, and users. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams requires effective communication, coordination, and negotiation skills, as well as the ability to adapt to different perspectives, cultures, and standards. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams can help to ensure that the rolling stock solutions are feasible, viable, and desirable, as well as aligned with the project goals, specifications, and requirements.

5 Developing technical and creative skills

A fifth key skill for rolling stock designers and engineers is to develop their technical and creative skills to design and engineer rolling stock solutions that are functional, aesthetic, and user-friendly. Technical skills include the knowledge and application of engineering principles, methods, and tools, such as mathematics, physics, mechanics, electronics, software, and testing. Creative skills include the ability to generate, evaluate, and refine ideas, as well as to express them visually, verbally, or prototypically. Technical and creative skills can be developed through education, training, practice, and feedback.

6 Keeping up with trends and changes

A sixth key skill for rolling stock designers and engineers is to keep up with the trends and changes that affect the rolling stock industry and the user needs. Trends and changes can include social, economic, environmental, technological, and regulatory factors that influence the demand, supply, and expectations of rolling stock services. Keeping up with trends and changes requires continuous learning, research, and analysis skills, as well as the ability to anticipate and adapt to new challenges and opportunities. Keeping up with trends and changes can help to ensure that the rolling stock solutions are relevant, competitive, and future-proof.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?