Hull Trains driver shortlisted for national award after inspiring career change at 50

Joanne Pyman‑Smith, a Hull Trains train driver, has been shortlisted for the ‘Emerging Talent Person Award’ at the Rail Staff Awards. She entered the award after completing Hull Trains’ Apprentice Driver programme and qualifying as a train driver. Pyman‑Smith left an 18‑year career with the Humberside Fire and Rescue Service at age 50 to pursue her passion for driving. She holds a boat licence and an LGV licence, and she cited transferable skills such as safety procedures, teamwork and public interaction as reasons for her successful transition.

Hull Trains, which was named the UK’s number one rail operator for customer satisfaction earlier in 2026, operates eight direct weekday services from Hull to destinations including Doncaster, Grantham, Selby and London King’s Cross. The company partners with the training provider Train’d Up and has a high proportion of its workforce completing apprenticeships. Tom Guthrie, Interim Head of Driver Operations, praised Pyman‑Smith’s positive outlook, work ethic and determination, describing her journey as an inspiring example of what can be achieved through hard work and self‑belief.

Other Hull Trains staff have also been shortlisted for this year’s Rail Staff Awards. Zac Botham, the new Safety and Security Manager, is nominated in the same category as Pyman‑Smith, while Gemma Scott, Planning and Performance Manager, is shortlisted for ‘Rail Manager of the Year’. The Rail Staff Awards, established in 2007, continue to highlight individuals who contribute significantly to the rail industry.