CPA Bulletin

44 CPA Bulletin > August 2022 www.cpa.uk.net rail plant association RAIL PLANT ASSOCIATION: 1 David Simmons steps down In April 2020, the incumbent RPA Chairperson, David Simmons, had to take a leave of absence from the position to undergo treatment for an ongoing medical condition. In February 2022, David informed the Board of Directors that although the treatment had been as successful as he could have hoped, due to his ongoing recovery he feels that he would unfortunately not be able to make the same level of commitment required to continue in the RPA Chairperson’s position. On behalf of the entire RPA Membership, we would especially like to thank David for his outstanding contribution and commitment to the Association during his tenure as RPA Chair and we wish him our very best wishes for a full and continued recovery. David Simmons will continue to serve the Association as an RPA Director on the Board of Directors. In August 2020, Darren Matthews of Readypower Rail Services Ltd, very kindly stepped into the role of Acting-chair of the RPA Management Committee to cover for David Simmons in the interim period whilst David underwent his treatment. Darren fulfilled the Acting-chairperson’s role with vigour and commitment to ensure that the function of the Management Committee continued pretty much seamlessly throughout the various COVID-19 lockdowns and as the industry had to adjust very quickly to the newmethod of working and procedures. At the April 2022 RPA Management Committee meeting, Darren stepped down as Acting chair, but continues to serve on the Management Committee. Once again on behalf of the RPA Membership and Management Committee, we express our appreciation and gratitude to Darren for stepping up to the plate so ably during such a challenging period time for the Association - so a huge thank you again Darren! Signing on as Acting Chairperson Paul Helks Hello to all readers, It is with great pleasure that Darren and the Management Committee (MC) and my Boss Andy Webb trust me to take on the role of Acting Chair. As Darren mentioned in the May/June Infrastructure article I have had the honour of being on the MC for a good number of years. There is no question, that following in the footsteps of the early pioneers of the RPA Andy Webb, David Simmons, through to recent times, will be big boots to fill. I will endeavour not to disappoint. There are many work streams and groups attended by the Management Committee. Lots of hours, and dedicated input. Working for the members and for the overall betterment of the industry. Along with my learned colleagues we will continue this valuable work. But I would like to challenge the RPA membership, and that of the wider reaching community to think about the new era that approaches us all. GBR (Great British Rail). And the further demands it will place firmly upon the Plant supply chain. Sustainability, efficiencies, carbon reduction and a safer environment for our colleagues to name but a few. Ask yourselves the question of how can we work more collaboratively to address these challenging requirements. There are certainly areas that we still work in isolation from one another and region to region, following dated practice and putting up with historic behaviours. There are many working groups and steering committees within our industry that strive for similar goals. And yet I believe a more joined up approach should and must deliver prompt measurable and tangible outputs. Thought point: Remove barriers that have long hindered industry transformation. There is still much more to do, and we will do that faster and more effectively when we work together across the industry. With the ever-changing situations in the world, post pandemic recovery and industry pressure, time is of the essence to re-calibrate our thoughts on our capabilities. There is a wealth of knowledge