c2c Railway is celebrating the contributions of its young workforce as UK Youth Work Week begins, highlighting the success of emerging talent across East London and South Essex. The operator says it is committed to nurturing the next generation of rail professionals and providing meaningful pathways into long-term careers in the sector.

The business has developed several programmes designed to support youth employment in local communities, particularly through its partnership with The King’s Trust. Over the last three years, 18 young people have secured permanent roles through the ‘Get into Rail’ initiative, which offers hands-on experience and structured career development.

Rob Mullen, c2c’s Managing Director, said:

“At c2c, we pride ourselves in continually looking for new, young talent that can come in at any level with a ‘can-do attitude’ and be moulded by our incredible experienced colleagues into integral members of the team. The railway offers young people the chance to explore so many directions and I am so proud of our Recruitment and Learning & Development teams, who are amazing at identifying new young talent through our various programmes. We also are very proud to be leading the industry by creating a bold and dynamic workforce that serves the people of its local communities with passion and pride – while keeping c2c at the top of the charts as one of the best rail operators in the UK.”

Among those to benefit from the scheme is Lindsey Keeling, who recently joined the company as Office Coordinator after completing the Get into Rail programme. She praised the initiative’s role in supporting her career journey, saying:
“It was amazing to go through c2c and The King’s Trust’s Get into Rail programme and come out the other side with my role.”

c2c also continues to invest in apprenticeship opportunities, which have helped develop talent across multiple areas of the business. Jess Lake, Head of Learning & Development, said:

“At c2c, we’re passionate about creating pathways that allow young people to thrive. Through programmes like Get into Rail and our apprenticeships, we’re not just developing skills — we’re helping individuals build confidence, purpose and long-term careers. Seeing our young colleagues grow into valued professionals is what makes learning and development so rewarding.”

A standout example is HR Recruitment Advisor Erin Godfrey, who first joined as a HR Apprentice before progressing into her current role. She has since been shortlisted for the Apprentice of the Year Award at the Young Rail Professional Awards 2025 and completed the 30-mile route in c2c’s 2025 Ultra Marathon in aid of Gold Geese.

Reflecting on her journey, Erin said:

“Working for c2c is an incredible experience. Not only am I learning so much about the rail industry, but the organisation really cares about the wellbeing and health of its colleagues. When I look back from when I first started, it has been an amazing journey – I have been given opportunities and found a home at c2c. When I see new apprentice roles coming into the business, it is always so interesting to remember where I started from and how far I have come in such a short time.”

Image: c2c