From boots on the ground to training the next generation. Mahesh Sukumaran’s journey with Morson Training

At Morson Training, success doesn’t happen down to luck – it’s built. With the right support, real opportunity, and relentless dedication, careers take shape. Mahesh Sukumaran’s journey from apprentice to full-time trainer is proof of that. It is a story driven by passion, perseverance, and purpose.

A few years ago, we shared Mahesh’s initial journey as a London Underground apprentice. Today, we reconnect to discover how far he’s come and how he’s now shaping the journeys of others.

Andrew Robinson, Head of Morson Operations at Morson Training, said: 

Mahesh is a major success story for Morson Training. He joined us as an apprentice, progressed to a high level on track and in the last year has joined Morson Training full time as a Trainer. His dedication, hard work and diligence have set him apart from his contemporaries and I would like us to champion this.

From learner to leader

Mahesh now holds a full-time position as a Trainer at Morson Training, delivering a variety of technical courses for the London Underground. From Basic Track Awareness (BTA) to safety protocols and ticketed assessments, he works with a wide range of learners, ensuring they are both well-trained and confident in their skills.

I teach a variety of courses, working closely with delegates – training, testing, and helping them earn their tickets. It’s about giving them the tools they need to succeed.

For Mahesh, the drive to continue growing in the industry is deeply personal.

The best thing for me is watching people progress. Seeing someone come into a course with no experience or confidence – and walking out at the end empowered and competent – that’s everything. Knowing I’ve played a part in that journey keeps me going.

It’s this sense of purpose that fuels his energy when teaching different courses. With his background starting as an apprentice himself, Mahesh has a unique insight into what learners need to succeed, especially those who may face challenges.

Achievements that matter

Throughout his career, Mahesh has worn many hats, transitioning from track maintenance to overseeing worker safety during traffic and engineering hours in roles such as PWT-EH, PWT-TH, and PWT-D.

I’ve gone from protecting workers on the track to managing their safety at a high level. But what I’m most proud of is how I’ve been able to pass that knowledge on, teaching others and watching them thrive.

Mahesh credits much of his progression to the culture at Morson Training.

The best part of working with Morson is the people. I’ve been here for eight years and had five or six different roles. There was always an opportunity to step up. That kind of growth might not have been possible somewhere else.

He recalls how the support he received as an apprentice helped shape his future and now, he’s doing the same for others.

When someone struggles with learning and you help them get to the point where they’re confident and capable, it’s the most rewarding feeling.

Looking ahead

Mahesh is not one to rest on his achievements. Although he has only passed his probation a couple months ago, he has plans for further development in the pipeline, constantly looking to expand his skills and make an even bigger impact.

His journey serves as a powerful reminder: when opportunity meets determination, success is not just possible but it’s inevitable.

Through our comprehensive programmes and dedicated support, Morson Training is shaping the future of the UK rail industry, empowering individuals at every level to reach their full potential and ensuring a safer, more skilled workforce for tomorrow.