The West Somerset Railway has announced the appointment of a new Mechanical Engineering Director designate to monitor and oversee all aspects of mechanical engineering on the railway.

The new appointee is Rowan Joachim, who will initially join the railway as an Adviser in a voluntary non-executive role. The intention is that in the next couple of months she will join the West Somerset Railway’s Board.

Rowan is currently employed full-time by Transport for London as Head of Engineering for London Overground.

Since her initial graduation, she has gained experience in railway engineering, and has held a number of posts mainly in the London area. She is a chartered engineer, and holds additional qualifications in leadership, management, and railway accident investigation where she held was an Inspector of Rail Accidents with the Railway Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB),

In the heritage railway sector, Rowan has for many years worked as a volunteer on a Welsh heritage railway. As well as being a qualified locomotive fireman, she has also worked as a traffic controller and train guard.

The West Somerset’s previous Mechanical Engineering Director, Bob Meanley, retired from the company’s Board earlier this year.

Jonathan Jones-Pratt, Chairman of the West Somerset Railway PLC, said: “We are delighted that Rowan is joining us initially as an Adviser and then as a full Board Member. Mechanical Engineering is a critical area for the success of the railway, and includes working with the team who manage our fleet of steam engines, in addition to all other rolling stock.

“Rowan has had a very successful professional career in the field, in addition to her practical commitment to the heritage railway environment. We look forward to working with her over the years to come.”