Rosie’s 25+ Years in Rail Contracting: Flexibility & Neurodiversity
In today’s evolving workforce, partnering with organisations that understand your goals and genuinely support you makes all the difference. Rosie McAvoy, a long-time contractor in the UK rail industry, recently sat down with Rebecca Boniface, Senior Account Manager at Rullion, to share how her collaboration with Rullion has shaped her journey, personally and professionally.
Her experience highlights how tailored flexibility and inclusive practices can empower neurodivergent individuals to thrive in major rail projects and beyond.
Embracing Neurodiversity in Rail
Early Challenges & Diagnosis
Rosie has been diagnosed as autistic and with ADHD. Like many neurodivergent professionals, she faced obstacles that others may not fully understand.
Early in her career, Rosie struggled to find workplaces that understood neurodiversity. Without support, she felt like just another number.
“I didn’t always get the support I needed early on in my career. It was difficult to navigate spaces that didn’t truly understand neurodiversity.”
Finding Support with Rullion
Everything changed when Rosie began working with Rullion. She found the flexibility and respect she had been missing, which allowed her to thrive.
“Rullion has always made sure I feel valued and supported. I never feel like I’m just filling a role. My skills and contributions are recognised, and that makes a huge difference.”
Why Contracting Works for Rosie
Freedom to Explore New Skills
Contracting gave Rosie freedom, freedom to try new roles and expand her skill set.
“Contracting has been ideal for me. It allowed me to move into a new industry, rail, without having prior experience. I started with roles I never thought I could do - high-voltage systems, pneumatic systems, even bogies - and Rullion supported me every step of the way.”
High-Profile Projects: From Eurostar to West Coast
Rosie has worked on major rail projects including the Eurotunnel Shuttle and West Coast Mainline, contracting through Rullion and contributing her expertise to leading firms like Alstom.
Rullion’s flexible approach helped her confidently tackle roles outside her comfort zone, while ensuring she had the right support at every stage.
“Even though contracting can be seen as more precarious, I’ve never felt insecure. Rullion’s support has made all the difference.”
Building Confidence & Inclusion
Open Conversations & Accommodations
One of the biggest turning points in Rosie’s career has been her ability to openly discuss her neurodivergence at work.
“I’ve been able to talk about being autistic and my ADHD in the workplace - something I couldn’t do in previous roles. Rullion has truly supported me in being open about my differences, which has been a game-changer in my professional and personal life.”
Rosie is also an advocate for wider inclusion, supporting LGBTQ+ and women's groups, and encouraging greater gender diversity across engineering.
Thriving in a Neurodiverse Team
By fostering a workplace that embraces neurodiversity, Rosie has felt empowered to contribute her best ideas - without masking or fear of judgement.
“Being part of a team that values differences means everything. I can bring my full self to work and know that I’ll be respected.”
Looking to the Future
When asked about her future plans, Rosie keeps things open, by design.
“I don’t want to set anything specific. If a new opportunity comes along, I’d take it. That’s the beauty of contracting.”
With an open mindset and adaptability, this has led to international job offers, from New York to Australia. But what stands out most is the satisfaction she’s found in her work.
“I’m content - and I never thought I’d get to that point. That’s a great feeling.”
Why Rullion Works
Rosie credits Rullion’s human approach for helping her stay empowered and supported, no matter the challenge.
“It’s a big company, but I’ve never felt like a number. I’ve always had interpersonal relationships and understanding from the team.”
Join the Rullion Network
Looking for your next opportunity?
The job market is evolving, but with the right mindset, skills, and support, this could be the perfect time to grow your career.
Whether you're looking for a short-term contract, a long-term project, a full-time role, or a new direction in your industry, we're here to help you unlock your potential.
To learn more about the rail opportunities we offer, visit our Rail Industry page.
Explore jobs built for your next move: https://www.rullion.co.uk/jobs/
