Keele University has been named the new education partner for the Chartered Institution of Railway Operators (CIRO), in a move aimed at strengthening training and career development across the UK rail industry.
Keele academics will work with CIRO to help shape courses, including its flagship BSc in Railway Operations Management, designed for both aspiring and current employees.
The courses will be designed to meet industry needs and combine academic study with real-world experience.
Keele already works with CIRO on a Senior Leader MBA programme.
Professor Mark Ormerod OBE, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost of Keele University, said: “I am delighted that today we can announce the exciting next stage of our partnership with the CIRO, delivering co-designed courses that will provide excellent developmental opportunities and industry-recognised qualifications for both aspiring and current railways employees for the future-facing rail industry.
“I’m hugely grateful to colleagues at Keele and CIRO, who have worked so productively to make this major new partnership an exciting reality.”
Adam Fenton, Chief Operating Officer of CIRO, which is based in Stafford, added: “This partnership represents an exciting new chapter for CIRO and for the development of railway professionals across the UK.
“Partnering with Keele University allows us to build on the success of our academic programmes while strengthening the connection between industry and higher education.
“Having both organisations located in Staffordshire also creates new opportunities for collaboration and innovation as we continue developing the operational leaders who keep Britain’s railway running safely and efficiently.”
