Have you ever wondered how train drivers manage to stay focused behind the controls? We sat down with Chantel Chang, a driver on the Mildmay and Suffragette lines, to learn more about her journey and the skills it takes to navigate the rails safely and efficiently.

Why does your job require a lot of concentration?

As a train driver, my role is safety critical. Maintaining a high level of concentration is not just a key competency for the role itself, but imperative to running a safe, reliable and efficient service.

I often need to concentrate on multiple tasks simultaneously – particularly during peak travel times or instances of disruption – which means I must quickly prioritise tasks as primary and secondary.

There are quieter periods when shifts can become ‘monotonous’, which naturally could lead to reduced concentration. To combat this, we are trained to use personal protective strategies to stay focused and situationally aware.

What could go wrong if you don’t pay attention at work?

The consequences of a lapse in concentration are serious, from damaging railway infrastructure to causing injury to passengers.

While the thought of these possible outcomes can be daunting, I feel a very strong sense of responsibility and hold myself accountable to carry out my role to the best of my ability to ensure these situations do not arise.

Have you always found it easy to focus on tasks?

I have generally found it easy to focus on tasks from a young age. Before joining the railway, I was always quite academic, having enjoyed preparing for exams and doing coursework. However, the ability to focus on tasks is a skill that I have had to adapt to various professional settings.

In my current role, I need to focus, shift my focus, refocus, and maintain concentration multiple times during a shift. This is different from previous jobs, where I could focus on completing one task at a time. It is definitely a skill that has developed and adapted since my studying days!

What advice would you give to someone looking to improve their focus?

Improving concentration skills starts outside of work, with lifestyle and mindset.

Everyone is different, but here are some things that have worked for me:

• Maintaining a balanced diet, exercising or physical activity.
• Taking time out for meditation or mindfulness away from distractions like social media, television and video games.
• Spending some time each week on brain training activities on my phone.

At work, there are very simple things you can also do:

• Being prepared. Arriving slightly earlier to work allows me to settle, read notices and mentally prepare for my shift.
• Trying to separate work and home issues: I try to leave home issues at home and avoid letting them distract me at work.
• Staying hydrated whilst at work.
• Keeping my workspace (my driving cab) tidy and well-ventilated.

Curious about what it’s like to drive a train? Check out the video below to see ARL’s internal communications lead, George Clarke, try out the train simulator at Willesden Junction depot and get a taste of life in the cab!