International Women's Day 2025 |

This year’s International Women’s Day theme, "Accelerate Action" calls for urgent steps towards gender equality. At Caledonian Sleeper, we are proud to support this movement by fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is celebrated. With a team that reflects a nearly equal gender split - 55% male and 45% female - we believe in the power of balance to drive innovation and success.

As we continue to break down barriers and champion equal opportunities, we’re committed to accelerating progress and ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard.

We spoke to some of our colleagues in our engineering and operations teams to allow them to share their stories about being female in an otherwise male dominated industry.

Sara McCafferty - Standards and Assurance Coordinator

Can you tell us how long you have been at CSL, and an insight into your job role?

My journey with Caledonian Sleeper began in September 2023, when I joined as a Standards & Assurance Coordinator for the engineering department. I’ll never forget my first day—walking out of the office with safety boots, a bump cap, and a high-vis vest, thinking, 'What have I just signed up for?'

Fast forward 18 months, and I still get excited every time I pack my PPE into my rucksack for a day at the depot. Whether I’m inspecting the work done by Alstom, auditing paperwork from CAF, or collaborating with one of CSL’s internal auditors to plan an upcoming partner audit, there’s always something new and interesting to dive into. It’s a role that keeps me engaged and always on my toes, and I truly enjoy the variety it brings.

Can you tell us the story about what led you to this particular career path?

After nearly 18 years in the Energy industry, I found myself made redundant. At first, I decided to take some well-earned time off and really enjoy the break. But after 14 months of rest, I felt it was time to get back to reality and start looking for a new challenge.

The railway had always intrigued me—partly because of the stories I’d heard about my great grandfather working on the Orient Express, and my aunt who worked in the ticket office at Giffnock train station. So, when I saw the job at Caledonian Sleeper advertised, I realized the skill set they were looking for was very much in line with what I could offer. I jumped at the chance to apply, and here I am, thrilled to be part of the railway world.

Can you share a few of the biggest obstacles or challenges you’ve had to overcome while working in a male-dominated industry?

For me the biggest obstacle has been self-doubt and a bit of imposter syndrome. Thankfully with time and as my confidence has grown this is something that I was able to overcome.

Has being a woman in a male-dominated field shaped the way you approach your work or leadership?

I consider myself to be very lucky to be part of the engineering team. We treat each other with kindness and respect, I have never been made to feel I am any different for being a woman. I have not had to alter my approach as I have always been accepted for who I am and the skills I bring to my role.

What advice would you give to women who are considering a career in a male-dominated industry like yours?

I would say to anyone looking for a career in a male dominated industry,  be passionate about what you do, expect to be challenged, and don’t be afraid to speak up. 

Louise Dewar - Operations Team Manager

Can you tell us how long you have been at Caledonian Sleeper, and an insight into your job role?

I’ve been with Caledonian Sleeper for just over two years now, joining the team in October 2022 as the Operations Team Manager. In this role, I oversee the Edinburgh South and London Euston teams of Train Managers, as well as the Operations Performance and Standards Coach.

As a people manager, my main focus is ensuring the wellbeing and development of my team, supporting them through their performance, training needs, and any personal challenges they may face.

The role is incredibly dynamic – no two days are ever the same. One day, I could be involved in recruitment or IT support, while the next could involve delivering safety briefings, training, or supporting team members through personal or professional milestones. It’s a role that combines operational responsibility with a deep sense of empathy and support for the people I work with, making each day both challenging and rewarding.

Can you tell us the story about what led you to this particular career path?

I’ve been in people management for over 25 years, working across a range of industries including Supported Accommodation, Hospitality, Security Operations, and Airside Aviation. What I’ve learned over the years is that the core of management isn’t about following policies and procedures—it’s about understanding and valuing the individuals you work with. People management skills are incredibly transferable, and creating an environment where people feel appreciated for the unique contributions they bring to their roles is essential in fostering a positive culture. After all, we spend so much of our time at work, so finding something you truly love means you’ll never feel like you're working a day in your life!

My journey to this role began when I applied for the Operations Duty Manager position in August 2022. After several interviews and conversations with various members of the team, I was offered a fixed-term contract as Operations Team Manager to see if we were a good fit for one another. The role then became permanent, and I was thrilled to be offered the position in March 2023. I truly love the job I do—it allows me to work alongside incredible people who bring such diverse experiences, both professionally and personally. It's a job that’s fulfilling in so many ways, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to grow alongside my team.

Can you share a few of the biggest obstacles or challenges you’ve had to overcome while working in a male-dominated industry?

I’ve spent many years working in male-dominated industries, and I’ve often walked into environments where I was one of the few women in the room. I’ll never forget stepping into a site billet with 30 middle-aged men who looked at me like I was just a ‘wee lassie.’ But that’s something you can change when you know the industry and the work that’s being done. I’ve always been confident in my abilities and make sure to use them. Personally, I don’t see the rail industry as male-dominated anymore. There are plenty of incredible women in leadership roles within the sector, and within our own business, we have strong examples of leadership across all genders.

The biggest challenge I’ve faced isn’t being a woman—it’s not having the deep rail knowledge when I first entered the industry. Admittedly, I didn’t know the difference between a Class 92 or a Class 73, or what a 61-way jumper was, but I’m still learning! What matters is that I can do my job to the best of my ability. I work with a team of experts I trust, and if I don’t know something, I’m not afraid to reach out to someone who does. The key is recognizing that no one has to know everything, and it’s all about working together and trusting in each other’s expertise.

Has being a woman in a male-dominated field shaped the way you approach your work or leadership?

Not really, I have worked with some great leaders across the years. Some male leaders were amazing and inspiring, some not so much, but the same can be said for female leaders too. I’ve learned through the years that its not the gender of a leader which sets the definition between good and average, its their values in others and how we make people feel on a day-to-day basis.

Am i proud to be a women working in the industry? yes absolutely, but for me is being proud of the work I do and how I make people feel when they are at work that is most important, and we all have the ability to do that. I can be direct, I can be caring, I can be opinionated, I can be empathetic, having those abilities makes a strong leader in any industry.

What advice would you give to women who are considering a career in a male-dominated industry like yours?

My advice to women considering a career in a male-dominated industry like mine is simple: look around you. See the roles and the women who are already thriving in them—whether it’s a Host, Team Leader, Shunter, Train Manager, Operations Manager, Guest Experience Manager, Director, or even Managing Director. There are no limits to what you can achieve. The opportunities are out there, and nothing is beyond your reach if you have the passion, dedication, and confidence to go after it.