Derby and the surrounding area has a globally respected reputation for excellence in rail engineering, development and manufacture, spanning more than 150 years. In fact, the region has the densest cluster of rail engineering companies in Europe, with over 230 rail companies centred around Derby alone and many more throughout the wider East Midlands region.

Such success is founded on the availability of a skilled workforce, an outstanding record of innovation and leading-edge research and technology development. The region is also a key hub for rail freight and distribution. Consequently, we have become the UK’s access point for rail industry design, engineering and consultancy, and the focal point for rolling stock manufacture and lifecycle management.

Located at the centre of the country with massive investment planned for the UK rail industry in both infrastructure and rolling stock, it is no surprise that the East Midlands is home to, among many others, Bombardier Transportation, the UK's key rolling stock manufacturer.