Ken Davies, a Widnes railway worker, celebrated as Alstom names locomotive 08721 in his honor for 50 years of service.
Ken started his career in Wirral. He quickly advanced through roles, working in signalling and train operations before holding senior traffic management jobs.
Ken joined Alstom back in 2002. He managed operations on the West Coast line, and also oversaw the Old Dalby test track.
Ken stated it was a total honor. Locomotives get named after many things, including military groups, sports teams, ships, and large cities. He felt honored to be in that group, having served the rail industry for 50 years and finding it pleasurable to do so.
Now, Ken reduces risks for Alstom during operational changes. This is especially vital for new train introductions.
Alstom launched AZDP in 2012, focusing on high-risk tasks to protect staff and contractors. Ken helps put this plan in motion, implementing it across the UK and Ireland.
Ken said the rail network has great assets. Its size lets you visit the whole country, while Alstom’s global reach offers jobs abroad, allowing you to join a team globally. He added that there’s always something new, even after fifty years of work.
Liz Lumber praised Ken’s extensive experience and noted he teaches others well. He uses real examples to help them learn and supports projects willingly. She called him a true railway man and said naming a train after him was deserved.
A poem also marked Ken’s anniversary. Poet Cat McGrath wrote it for the occasion.
Ken’s family has deep roots in rail, sharing 157 years of service. His grandfather worked in Liverpool, his father was a train driver, and his sister worked as a train guard, retiring after 20 years in Par.
Alstom will celebrate Railway 200 by hosting a large rail exhibit at Derby Litchurch Lane Works from August 1 to August 3. The event is called ‘The Greatest Gathering’.