Ed Hopkins
Assistant Project Manager

Joined us in 2008
Qualifications: MEng and AMIMechE

“I always wanted to work in London and on big iconic structures. So Tube Lines fitted the bill perfectly. What I enjoy most is being directly involved in projects, not just managing the contractors.”

“Day-to-day, you’ll usually find me going back and forth to depots, planning work with those who’ll be carrying it out, and taking part in meetings. Recently I’ve been rearranging Golders Green traction, working closely with our own people, and with Alstom (who effectively ‘own’ the depot at present, so we need their permission to work there) and Thales (who’ll need access to the depot in the future). I’ve also been involved in a project allowing us to lift new signalling cables while we’re working on the railway track and put them back in exactly the same place.

“I’ve been underground a few times, and although it’s quite dirty and dusty down there, it’s not what you expect. It’s really interesting to see old flood gates and escape hatches that the travelling public wouldn’t even know about.

“It’s very delivery focused here. You need to get the job done. And although I do work late and at weekends when necessary, the work-life balance is great. What’s more, 29 days’ annual leave is a lot more generous than in my last job!

“My biggest achievement so far has been winning a Royal Academy of Engineering young engineer of the year award in 2009. It was for my work getting children interested in engineering, and Tube Lines backed me all the way. As for my biggest challenge, that’s finding safe, speedy solutions to urgent problems. We can be fined for delivering projects late and the press can be very unforgiving too – understandably.

“Great training has helped me handle those challenges though. I’ve particularly enjoyed a really good signalling design principles course I took last year. There’s also a big focus on interpersonal skills, as Tube Lines works to develop leadership ability across the company.

“Perhaps the best bit about working here is the people. They’re always happy to help you and there’s never any ‘that’s not my job’ attitude. Friendliness is an important quality here, as are drive and initiative.

“I plan to be at Tube Lines at least until we deliver on the Northern Line. I’m really proud to be part of that project and the experience will be invaluable to me.”