Women in Transport webinar highlights opportunities, mentoring and career pathways across the sector

UKTram’s Digital Marketing and Communications Manager recently joined a panel of industry professionals for a Women in Transport West Midlands Hub webinar celebrating International Women’s Day 2026.

Held online on 10th March, the session brought together speakers across the transport sector to share reflections on career development and pathways into the industry. The role of collaboration and mentoring was a key theme, aligning with this year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain”, which highlights how support and shared knowledge can create opportunity for others.

The panel featured Sue Walnut, Regional Lead for Women in Transport and Managing Director of WalnutWorks, Clare Sheffield, Director at Arup, Sarah Cauldwell, Senior Planner at Arup, Sandeep Kaur Dulay, Deputy Regional Lead for Women in Transport and Project Manager at West Midlands Metro, Lucy Gardner, Associate Director at Aru and UKTram’s Digital Marketing and Communications Manager, Chelsea Branch

During the webinar, speakers shared personal insights into their career journeys and reflected on moments of encouragement or mentorship that shaped their paths in the sector.

Speaking during the session, Chelsea shared how her career journey into transport did not follow a traditional route. After studying English and literature at university, she initially worked in roles outside communications before discovering how the careful use of language could improve processes and help people understand complex issues.

After several years in administrative roles, in which she often took on communications and writing-related tasks, she launched her own business and began freelancing with impact-driven, sustainable brands. Her work later brought her into contact with UKTram, where she initially supported the organisation with social media, website and communications activity before joining the team full-time.

The session also highlighted how careers in transport often develop through curiosity and immersion. Speakers encouraged those interested in the industry to engage with professional networks, say yes to opportunities to attend events and ask questions, recognising that knowledge is often built through participation and shared experience.

The event formed part of Women in Transport’s wider programme to increase visibility and opportunity for women across the transport industry.

UKTram continues to support initiatives that strengthen collaboration and knowledge sharing across the sector, helping to encourage the next generation of professionals working in light rail and sustainable transport.