IWD Spotlight: The First Female Senior Conductor at London Euston
From Aberdeen to Euston, Heather Mackenzie has been a trailblazer in the rail industry since 1991. Now a Controller at West Coast Railways, she’s sharing her journey, including what it was like to be the first woman in her role at London Euston and why the “Railway Family” is more important than ever.
1.You’ve had a remarkable 35-year career. Where did it all begin?
I started on April 16, 1991, in Aberdeen as a Conductor with Scotrail (British Rail). Looking back, I still get a shock realising it’s been 35 years! I’ve worked across passenger, freight, and infrastructure, and now, working in the charter train sector with West Coast Railways, it feels like I’ve come full circle. I’m even working with drivers today for whom I was a conductor back in the day.
2. In 1996, you became the first female Intercity Senior Conductor at London Euston. What was that experience like?
I was young and naive at the time. It wasn’t until later that I realised I was being treated differently by some, but luckily, the majority were fantastic and remain friends to this day. Back then, there were only a handful of us across the Intercity Network. I remember being so excited, the routes were major, the pay was better, and I loved the uniform (which included culottes!). It was a prestigious position; we served major cities and saw celebrities regularly. I’m still very proud to say I held that role.
3. How do you feel about the conversation around “Women in Rail” in 2026?
To be honest, I find it a bit strange when people make a big deal of it. At the end of the day, we are all railway employees doing our jobs to the best of our ability. It’s 2026, the first generation of female drivers has already retired. We are no longer a novelty; we are part of the fabric of the industry.
4. You recently volunteered for the Railway Benefit Fund (RBF) at Crewe. Why is the “Railway Family” so important to you?
The Railway Family is there for all of us. When I first interviewed at Euston in 1995, I met Theresa Yeats. She was the only woman there at the time and was so kind, even getting me the key to the ladies’ room so I could look my best for the interview. We became the closest of friends until she sadly passed in 2024. That’s the thing about the railway, there is always someone to talk to. Volunteering with the RBF Inspiration Train was a great way to give back to that community.
5. What advice would you give to someone starting their railway career today?
Be yourself. Don’t be afraid to ask if you don’t know something and take every opportunity to see new things or visit new locations. I feel humbled when younger people ask for my advice now; it reminds me how lucky I was to learn from the “old hands” when I started.
