NEWSLETTER

Q4 | 2023

I want to express my gratitude for your hard work and dedication. Our collective focus on the future has driven impressive growth and success last year.

I'm proud that all of you have embraced our core values of care, do the right thing, Lead and Innovate and never stop learning. Your professionalism has not only upheld our reputation but has also contributed to our continued growth.

For 2024, let's carry the same enthusiasm and commitment forward. I'm excited about what the future holds for On Track Technicians, and I'm confident that we'll achieve even greater success together.

Thank you for your outstanding contributions.

Message from Daryl Irwin

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7 YEARS & COUNTING
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7-Year Anniversary Weekend was brilliant

We had more than 100 talented staff members at multiple Translink worksites, each bringing their expertise to the table.

EXPANSION NEWS!
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On Track Technicians have now completed resource development to enable works on Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail network!

Our team's successful completion of Irish Rail PTS marks a significant milestone, enabling us to deploy our key skills across Ireland to enhance the railway journey.

Trust us to keep the tracks safe, ensuring your travels are secure and seamlessly on point. Our commitment to excellence continues to drive us forward in providing reliable and top-notch service throughout the region.

SPECIALIST CAPABILITIES

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OTT have made further investments to expand the specialist capabilities within the OTT plant and equipment fleet.

The GEISMAR RAIL TENSOR TENS HORNET – THRV2 has undergone calibration and testing and will be immediately out to the site to continue our network maintenance works.

Thanks to Alan Thomas of Geismar, who presented the equipment to the OTT Stressing Team and undertook a training session this week.

RAIL PEOPLE, RAIL CHAT

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This quarter on the 'Rail People, Rail Chat' OTT podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting some exciting guests who brought diverse perspectives to the table!

Our podcast has recently featured insightful conversations with Emerge Counselling Services, Scott Stevenson, Kurt Walker, and railway enthusiast Greg Morse from the RSSB.

We've delved into railway, mental health and sports training discussions, offering a well-rounded exploration of various rail-related topics.

If you're eager to be part of the podcast, don't hesitate to fill in the form and share your thoughts with us.

WANT TO GET INVLOVED?

PLAYS

1500

SPOTIFY FOLLOWERS

56

MONTHLY IMPRESSIONS

3600

Ross ‘Dinky’ Philips - OTT PICOP

Kurt Walker - Boxer

Ron Reeves - OTT Quality Assurer

Daryl Irwin - OTT MD

BELFAST GRAND CENTRAL STATION TOUR

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Our OTT Apprentices got a behind-the-scenes tour of the new Belfast Grand Central Station! It was incredible to see the magnitude of the work that has and is going on. Fantastic tour!

Thanks to Duane McCreadie MCIOB, Farrans Construction / SACYR for the insightful and informative tour and presentation.

INTERTRADE IRELAND

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OTT attended the InterTradeIreland, Unlocking New Cross-Border Trade Opportunities Conference. The event was held at the Printworks Conference Centre at Dublin Castle .

We heard from several key speakers and were very encouraged by the positive economic message they delivered to the delegates.

Speakers:
Vincent Power, Simon Coveney, Declan Hughes, Margaret Hearty, Loretta O'Sullivan, Simon McKeever, Vera Murphy, Kevin shakespeare, Colin McCabrey, Deirdre Maguire, Ronan Callan, Joe Howard, Elaine Curran

DART

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OTT Strategic Director Andrew Irwin had the privilege of attending the Iarnród Éireann Rail Freight (Irish Rail) - DART+ Programme Briefing last week.

The insights gained, and discussions during this event were truly invaluable. Exciting times are ahead for the future of Ireland's rail infrastructure.

A big thank you to everyone involved for making this event a success!.

Hilton Sanders, Gary O'Halloran, Colm Reynolds, Tom Carey, Gavin English, David Clarke

OVERVIEW OF 2023

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In 2023, as an On Track Technician, I was part of a team that deployed 60,013 skilled professionals for diverse projects.

We invested 7,326 hours in staff training, staying ahead in industry trends, and dedicated 2,590 hours to apprentice training for future talent. Delivering 26 competencies showcased our adaptability.

Kurt Walker 9-0

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Huge congratulations to our local OTT sponsored fighter, Kurt Walker, who won his latest fight ... Kurt moves to 9-0!

If you want to hear more about Kurt and his journey listen to our podcast episode where he chats to Colin.

Podcast Episode

OTT PHOTOGRAPHY

It's no secret that On Track Technicians are skilled at maintaining and repairing railways, but what many people don't know is that they also have some amazing photographers among their ranks, capturing stunning images that showcase the true artistry of this mode of transportation.

You might say that these technicians have a knack for capturing the rail-y great moments!

Photo by Ryan Ferguson

Photo by Andy Higham

Photo by Mark McGeown

Photo by Nick Smith

LETS SUPPORT JAMES

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On Track Technicians (OTT) is raising funds for James McMahon, who recently received a devastating diagnosis of a glioblastoma brain tumour after suffering a seizure at work. The family, including his partner Katherine and young children Ruby and James, faces significant financial challenges due to James's inability to work.

Following major brain surgery, he will undergo further treatments. The fundraising aims to alleviate the financial burden on the family during this difficult time, supporting them as they navigate through the uncertainties of James's diagnosis and treatment.

If you can, please support James and his family.

Go Fund Me | Donation

Say “Hello” to our team

Julie Griffiths

Resource Planner

About Julie:

I'm Auntie Julie, and I take pride in being the go-to person on our team. I'm always here whether someone needs a friendly ear or a comforting presence. My focus on emotional support contributes to a positive and inclusive team dynamic.

Beyond that, I bring my expertise regarding Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and training. Ensuring the team's safety is crucial to me, and I actively participate in initiatives related to PPE usage. Additionally, help in organising staff training, aiming to enhance everyone's skills and knowledge.

I wear two hats - a supportive confidante and a dedicated advocate for safety and education within our team. It's my way of making a meaningful impact on our collective well-being and success.

Hobbies:

I find pure joy in my life through my love for my dogs, the laughter of my grandchildren, attending concerts, and going on holidays!

Jonathan McClelland

Daytime Control

About Jonathan:

I have worked for over 20 years in the railway industry, and for the past 18 years in a safety critical role.

I moved into an office job just over two years ago, which was a significant change for me. Currently, I am responsible for managing day-time operations and coordinating with our staff to set up 'Safe System of Work' (SSOW). We have over 4500 SSOW logs, and this is helping our on-site staff to grow and improve every day.