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Wednesday 11 Feb 2026

It’s never too late: How a 30-year-old Bridgend man swapped delivering mail to delivering for rail through a Network Rail apprenticeship

Region & Route:

Wales & Western: Wales & Borders

Sam Wilmott’s switch from postman to Project Interface Manager shows how apprenticeships at Network Rail Wales and Borders can open doors at any stage of life. 

To mark National Apprenticeship Week (9-15 February), Network Rail Wales & Borders is shining a spotlight on colleagues who have built rewarding careers through apprenticeships. 

Sam’s story 

Sam Wilmott left school with no qualifications and felt stuck. While working as a postman in his hometown of Bridgend, South Wales, for more than a decade, he made the decision in his late twenties to return to education, attending night school to gain his GCSEs. 

“That was the turning point,” Sam said. “Once I got those qualifications, all the doors opened for me.” 

In 2013, at the age of 30, Sam was successful in gaining a place on Network Rail’s Advanced Apprenticeship Scheme, based in Port Talbot, specialising in Electrification and Plant - gaining the skills needed to safely maintain critical railway infrastructure. 

Alongside his technical training, Network Rail supported Sam to complete an Institute of Leadership and Management Level 5 qualification, helping him develop his skills in an area he knew he wanted to build his career in. 

Sam then spent six years working in maintenance while continuing his education in his own time - gaining a degree in Business and Management from the University of Essex. 

“I always knew I wanted to move into management and to understand more about how Network Rail operated as a business,” Sam said. “I was ready to take advantage of all the opportunities Network Rail could offer to develop myself and further education really does unlock career opportunities.”

Pathway to leadership

Keen to broaden his experience, Sam moved into the Wales Rail Operating Centre (WROC) in Cardiff in 2019 as an Intelligent Infrastructure Technician - analysing real-time data to identify potential faults before they could impact the railway. 

With coaching and support from his line manager, Sam then secured a secondment in 2022 as Project Manager for Business Continuity in Operations, helping ensure the railway could safely support major events like the Six Nations and large concerts. 

“My role was to make sure the railway could cope with huge crowds of more than 50,000 people, working closely with Transport for Wales, British Transport Police and other partners,” Sam said. “The most rewarding part was knowing people got to and from events safely and efficiently and they could just focus on having a good time.” 

Sam went on to complete Network Rail’s Accelerated Leadership Programme with Warwick University - achieving a postgraduate qualification in Strategic Leadership in 2024. 

Sam has since returned to maintenance in the role of Project Interface Manager, achieving one of his biggest goals - leading his own team and ensuring major projects meet legal and operational requirements. 

Age is just a number

Looking back, Sam admits he almost didn’t apply for an apprenticeship because of his age. 

“I thought I was too old,” he said. “But Network Rail offered great training, good pay and real support. There were others on the course older than me too, which was really encouraging.” 

Now 13 years into his railway career, Sam is passionate about encouraging others to consider apprenticeships. 

“I always say Network Rail is the world’s best kept secret,” he said. “They look after their people, pay well and offer huge opportunities to progress. It’s incredibly rewarding knowing you’re helping the public every day and being part of something so important. 

“It hasn’t always been easy, but the challenges are far outweighed by the rewards and the people I get to work with."

Nick Millington, Route Director at Network Rail Wales and Borders said:

“Apprenticeships open doors to long-term careers on the railway - something I’ve experienced myself since starting as an apprentice with British Rail in 1990.  

“It’s fantastic to see colleagues like Sam who have taken the leap to build a successful future on the railway, by taking advantage of the many opportunities on offer.  

“Sam's story shows how apprenticeships at Network Rail Wales and Borders can transform lives, whether you’re starting out, changing direction or looking to progress further. We’re always looking for new talent and fresh perspectives to help shape the future of our railway, and by investing in people we’re not just building skills - we’re creating careers for life.” 

An apprenticeship at Network Rail offers more than just an education. You’ll receive expert training, earn while you learn and develop skills for life.   

Apprenticeships aren’t just for those of school leaving age, anyone can apply for one at Network Rail.   

Applications are now open for our 2026 intake - click here to learn about the broad range of apprenticeships we offer.