GCRE and Thales UK Partner to Boost Rail Security and Skills Development

The Global Centre of Rail Excellence (GCRE) and Thales UK announced a pivotal new partnership at InnoTrans 2024, focused on bolstering digital security within rail infrastructure and nurturing essential skills in South Wales. The two organisations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that aims to address the evolving threats to critical national infrastructure and pave the way for secure, resilient rail solutions. Through this collaboration, GCRE and Thales will focus on building advanced security capabilities, commercialising innovative digital solutions, and fostering digital skills for the future.

_{Securing the Future of Rail Infrastructure}

As digital threats continue to grow, safeguarding critical infrastructure has become paramount. This partnership leverages Thales UK's expertise to help GCRE develop cutting-edge digital security frameworks that protect rail systems and enhance their resilience. By using GCRE’s facilities, the collaboration will not only bolster security for the rail and mobility industry but also create avenues to commercialise emerging digital technologies, making them accessible to a wider market.

_{Commitment to Education and Skills Development}

A significant component of this partnership is a commitment to developing digital skills within South Wales. Leveraging Thales’ UK Cyber Resilience Lab in Ebbw Vale, the collaboration will focus on engaging young people and fostering a new generation of talent equipped with essential skills in cybersecurity and digital resilience. This educational initiative aims to provide pathways for young professionals to gain expertise in digital security, addressing both local and industry-wide skill gaps.

_{Key Benefits of the GCRE-Thales Partnership}

• Enhanced Digital Security: With Thales’ cybersecurity expertise, the partnership will strengthen the resilience of rail infrastructure against digital threats.
• Commercialisation of New Technologies: By developing and testing innovative digital solutions, the collaboration will make cutting-edge security technologies more accessible.
• Skills Development for the Future: The partnership’s training and education initiatives will prepare a new generation of cybersecurity experts, creating career opportunities within the South Wales community.

The GCRE-Thales partnership represents a forward-thinking approach to addressing the security needs of the rail industry while empowering the next generation with essential skills. Through this collaboration, GCRE and Thales are setting a standard for secure, resilient rail infrastructure and a skilled workforce that can meet the challenges of tomorrow.