Head of Strategy Claire Porter, from Thales UK’s transportation systems business is about to be made President of the Institution of Railway Signal Engineers, one of the highest honours in the railway industry.
The IRSE is the professional body for those involved with railway signalling and telecommunications. It aims to improve engineering in signalling and control systems by sharing knowledge around the world with those in the industry.
Claire brings years of transport experience and a wide breadth of knowledge to her new position.
In her current role she is in charge of developing strategic business plans for Thales transport business in the UK, as well as outlining the strategy for developing products and putting forward sound arguments why investment in the industry is vital.
Claire joined the IRSE 25 years ago, and after being involved with its international conferences and various committees, she was elected to the body’s governing council.
“It is a great honour to be asked to become President of the IRSE,” she says.
“I’m particularly pleased to be the first female president in this role, after 99 years. Our plans for the forthcoming year are now taking shape and we have a very good technical programme planned.”
Claire’s plans for the IRSE include continuing the work to make it the world’s leader in signalling expertise.
“We have already set in place a strategic plan that runs from 2011-14. What I want to do in my year is ensure this does not stay a plan, and that we actually turn these goals into reality.
“Increased membership, improving the global reach of the organisation and making sure the IRSE is relevant to industry stakeholders will also be the key priorities. All of this, while also delivering high-quality technical content that people want to engage with.”
