A Hampshire company which helps makes Britain’s trains and rolling stock safer has celebrated a double triumph.
Barnbrook Systems Ltd, which is based in Fareham, recently won the National Passenger Safety title at the UK Rail Industry Awards for its brake controller.
The 35-strong company did the double when Ryan Bulman was named as overall Apprentice of the Year as well as engineering category winner in PETA Training and Consultancy Services’ annual honours.
Mark Hoban, who is MP for Fareham and a former Minister for Employment, heard of the successes from managing director Anthony Barnett and chief technology officer Andrew Barnett on a tour of Barnbrook in Fareham Park Road.
He said: “It is great that Barnbrook Systems has won this title for its innovative brake controller.
“Businesses will only survive by embracing the future. Barnbrook is not only a successful business but it will continue to be successful because it embraces change by investing in new technology and its workforce for the future.”
Barnbrook, which celebrates its 35th anniversary this year, is a designer, developer and manufacturer of electronic and electro-mechanical switching devices for aerospace, defence, maritime, rail and commercial industries worldwide.
Recognition for its brake controller comes hot on the heels of two finalist places at the 2013 Rail Business Awards for the cutting-edge train braking system – which includes the handle used by drivers in cabs.
It is replacing out of date and failing devices – some up to 40 years old – on trains to improve safety and reliability, helping companies hit punctuality targets and avoid penalties.
Barnbrook is supplying East Midlands Trains with 45 of the brake controllers.
It is also fitting the controller on London Midland Trains for its Class 150 fleet.
Andrew Barnett said: “The brake controller has represented expansion but will also drive further advances for Barnbrook and local SMEs in our supply chain.
“We are setting our sights on another contract and setting up 24/7 remote monitoring systems.
‘It is rewarding to see our skilled and dedicated team, including the apprentices, gain the external recognition they deserve for their excellence.
“Our thanks to Mark for coming to celebrate our successes.”
Advanced engineering apprentice Ryan, 18, who lives in Fareham, has worked at Barnbrook for two years.
He said: “Barnbrook Systems have a strong focus on giving young employees opportunities to flourish.
“I am delighted to have won the award.”
Now Ryan is due to start at Fareham College’s groundbreaking Cemast technology centre of excellence in Lee-on-the-Solent in September.
Barnbrook Systems is a sponsor of CEMAST and the new initiative for apprentices and trainees in the aerospace, marine, manufacturing and automotive sectors.
Latest industry figures show that the sector generates an annual £1.15 trillion turnover and employs more than 5.4 million people.
