"Developer, Infuencer, Quality Controller - my identified personality types are spot on. In my role I have to influence stakeholders and end users, I have to think about solutions to problems and I have to make sure that the solutions have the right outcomes, so I apply quality control from concept stage all the way through to solution deployment. I'm accountable for making sure that the solution being delivered is adding value to the business."

"I meet with end users to discuss what they need from a process or system and I identify where the current challenges and gaps are. I'll create process flow diagrams of existing systems/processes, and write a list of what is required to be delivered from the project, for example: \"The system must have a user interface that can be accessed from an iOS device\". From there I will discuss solution options with solutions architects (in the case of an IT system instead of just a business process change) and at Network Rail we will then look for a supplier to deliver the solution, if we don't have software that can support it already. My role is to make sure that all the requirements of the solution are written in a way that is clear and concise so that the correct solution is delivered. We deal with systems and projects that run into millions of pounds and are critical to keeping our railways operational and more importantly SAFE, so my role is an important role throughout this process. I enjoy all aspects of my job but my favourite is writing up the requirements for a solution, because I know that the project success hinges on how well these are defined - a poor set of requirements can fail an entire project and cost millions of pounds!"

"My earliest memories of enjoying engineering is when I was 11 I would fix my mum's video recorder (the 80's equivalent to a dvd player) just by working out where the function stopped and focusing on the circuit board around that part. I love a good puzzle or a logic problem and I ask questions about absolutely everything!!I left school at 16 with average GCSEs and I went straight into an Office Junior position. I wanted to go to Uni but my parents couldn't afford it and my logic was that I'll start from the bottom and work my way up. I see something I want and I just go for it - I'm quite strong willed. I became an Office Manager by the time I was 18 but I was bored in that role so I moved into telecoms (Cable & Wireless) and into a Billing Analyst role supporting the first digital TV launch in the UK. During this time I worked alongside IBM which was really interesting at such an early stage of my career. From there I became a Billing Operations manager at TalkTalk, followed by a Billing Systems Development Manager (TalkTalk) and then I had a career break to raise my children. I became an antenatal teacher for 4 years and ran my own business doing this and also proof reading. When I returned to full-time work 5 years later I took a look at what I enjoyed most about my career to date, and it was the analytical project management work in telecoms, so I studied Business Analysis to obtain a BCS certification to prove I could actually do what I said I could do, and I've never looked back since. My inspiration was my mother who was always so excited and proud every time I got a promotion - I loved to make her smile! My family has a strong science/engineering history, so really I was always going to do something related to engineering. My 12 year old boy loves to hear about how the trains run too. :)"

"I'm an Army wife to an Officer in the Royal Engineers, and I'm mum to Jess (13) and Will (12). I've always enjoyed problem solving and finding solutions to stuff that I know must reach a logical conclusion.I like to get outdoors and into the hills - the fresh air and view from a summit really empties my mind (which is constantly buzzing with questions, solutions, challenges, more questions and more questions - you get the picture!). I also play the cello which is something I did until I was 12 and then picked up again when I turned 40 - people are normally surprised by this because I listen to chart music, but I'm also classically trained :) I lift weights three times a week because I like to feel strong and also it helps counteract all the pizza that I eat with my kids!"

"So today I have 3 meetings this morning about different projects I am working on (I have 4 major projects and 2 smaller initiatives). The first meeting is to discuss how the project team will evaluate some software that is needed to see the movement of trains (it's really awesome watching all the trains moving all over the country in a 'schematic view' (Google it)). The second meeting is to understand the challenges of a new project I've just taken on, so I can work out where the gaps are and make sure they are covered in the delivery of the solution. The third meeting is to learn more of the history of the railways (signalling software, trains software, etc.). Then in the afternoon I'm going to finish and publish a huge process flow diagram that I have been working on for 3 months, and then I need to look at writing a set of generic questions as part of a continuous improvement initiative (making the process more efficient to save money and resources). If I get time I will also meet with a Solutions Architect to discuss requirements for new software that needs to interface with multiple different web services. I'll also try to fit in 3 coffees along the way!"

"BCS (ISEB) Business Analyst Foundation (currently working towards diploma)NVQ Level 4 in ManagementDiploma in Antenatal Education (not relevant to current role)My route to current job was to obtain my BCS qualification. I am a Senior Business Analyst because of the experience I have gained delivering IT related projects throughout my career in different types of roles. "