RSS Infrastructure
Successful Partnerships
This year’s award goes to a remarkable alliance led by RSS Infrastructure, working in partnership with Balfour Beatty Group, Midlands Rail Alliance, Tended, West Midlands Trains, and the WMCA Careers Hub.
Together, they delivered the groundbreaking “Design a Train Station 2030” initiative — a project that has redefined how we engage young people in careers education. This inclusive, hands-on programme inspired hundreds of students across Birmingham, Coventry, and the Black Country to reimagine the future of railway stations, blending creativity, sustainability, and engineering.
Why This Matters
This partnership is a beacon for what’s possible when employers, educators, and regional bodies work together. It demonstrates that:
- Employers can shape the future workforce by engaging meaningfully with education.
- Young people, including those from SEND schools and colleges, can gain confidence, skills, and career awareness through real-world challenges.
- Educators benefit from innovative, industry-led learning experiences that align with curriculum goals.
- Communities thrive when inclusive opportunities are created for all learners to succeed.
A Call to Action for Employers and Skills Providers
This award-winning initiative is more than a success story — it’s a call to action. We urge other large employers and skills providers to think differently, work innovatively, and partner with purpose. There are plenty of ways that you can get involved.
Whether you're in transport, health, housing, or education, your collaboration can create life-changing opportunities. Let’s build a future where every young person has the chance to thrive — and where employers help shape the talent they need.
What the Winners Say
“Working in collaboration with the WMCA Careers Hub allowed us to ensure we engaged with young people with the most need in the region and enabled us to provide valuable careers education in our specific industry.”
Real Impact, Real Stories
From designing sustainable train stations to presenting their ideas to industry professionals, students developed vital skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. As one educator shared:
“Watching their confidence grow as they presented their ideas and engaged with professionals was magical. The life skills—communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and self-belief—are invaluable and will stay with them far beyond this project.” – Wolverhampton College
Be the Next Success Story
Inspired? The WMCA is ready to help you create impactful, inclusive, and innovative partnerships. Let’s work together to build a stronger, more skilled West Midlands.
Get in touch Employer Pledge