AI in Engineering: Lessons from the Railway
About
AI in Engineering: Lessons from the Railway:
Artificial Intelligence is often presented as a revolutionary force in engineering, yet its real value lies in how it is applied in practice. This talk explores how AI is being used today within the rail sector—one of the UK’s most complex, asset‑intensive and safety‑critical engineering systems.
Drawing on first‑hand experience within Network Rail, the session will show how AI is augmenting engineering judgement rather than replacing it, helping engineers see more, act earlier, and manage risk more effectively. Real examples will include AI‑enabled infrastructure monitoring, computer vision applied to high‑definition train‑borne video, and digital inspection processes such as Plain Line Pattern Recognition (PLPR) and Digital Lineside Inspection (DLI).
The talk will also address the engineering realities of deploying AI responsibly: data quality, assurance, explainability, governance, and human oversight. The session concludes with reflections on what AI means for the future engineering profession, and the skills engineers need to remain firmly “in control” of intelligent systems.
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Continuing Professional Development
This event can contribute towards your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours as part of the IET's CPD monitoring scheme.
12 May 2026
6:00pm - 8:00pm
Organiser
- Birmingham Local Network
Speakers
Ian Dean
Principal Engineer [Track Data AI & ML] - Technical Authority - Network Rail
A multidisciplinary engineer with over 40 years of experience, dedicated to the application of engineering and technology in support of safe, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure systems. Over the last decade, I have specialised in data-driven asset management, applying AI and machine learning techniques to improve performance, efficiency, and environmental outcomes in the UK rail sector.
I am a Member of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and am actively building my professional portfolio toward Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration. Being already a Chartered IT Professional in AI & Data Science, my work strongly reflects the IET’s principles of responsible innovation, systems thinking, and professional integrity. I provide expert input and consultation within Network Rail and across industry bodies, including BSI, RSSB, GBRX, and the DfT, supporting policy development and contributing to international standards through ISO/IEC and CEN/CENELEC.
I am committed to advancing the engineering profession and its role in society. This includes mentoring early career engineers, supporting STEM outreach, and volunteering in education initiatives such as the TEALS programme, helping to inspire and develop the next generation of engineers and technologists.
Reasons to attend
Get to know more about AI in Engineering applied in the rail sector.
Programme
18:00 - Refreshments and Networking
18.30 - Event begins
19:30 - Questions and Answers
20:00 - Event ends