AI in Training and Development: Smarter Learning for a Safer Railway

Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping how organisations train, develop, and support their people, and the rail industry is no exception. 

From AI-generated learning content to predictive risk profiling, the technology offers new ways to understand performance, target support, and build lasting competence. But as with any innovation in a safety-critical environment, the goal isn’t just efficiency, it’s confidence, competence, and continuous improvement. 

From Static Courses to Adaptive Learning Traditional training models often rely on fixed materials and standardised delivery. Everyone receives the same course, regardless of experience, role, or current skill level.  

AI changes that by enabling adaptive learning, training that evolves based on data. Algorithms can analyse assessment results, performance records, and operational feedback to tailor content to the individual. 

That means a signaller, a driver, and a maintainer can each follow a learning path aligned to their own risks, responsibilities, and recent performance, improving engagement, retention, and outcomes. 

Identifying and Managing Risk Through Data One of the most powerful applications of AI in training is risk profiling. 

By analysing historic incidents, operational reports, and even simulator data, AI systems can help identify where knowledge gaps or behavioural risks are most likely to occur. This allows learning teams to intervene early, targeting training where it will have the greatest impact. 

For example, if data suggests a particular depot or route has recurring operational challenges, AI can flag patterns and recommend relevant modules or refresher sessions. 

The result? A proactive, data-informed approach to competence management. 

Delivering Targeted Training at Scale AI doesn’t just help identify risks, it helps organisations act on them faster. 

Automated content generation tools can now produce short, role-specific training interventions in minutes, not weeks. These can be reviewed and refined by subject-matter experts to ensure accuracy and alignment with operational standards. 

Combined with modern Learning Management Systems (LMS), AI can automatically enrol learners, track completion, and adapt training plans based on outcomes, turning what used to be a manual process into one that’s responsive and measurable. 

AI as an Enabler, Not a Replacement At Migo, we see AI not as a substitute for human trainers or experience, but as an enabler. Technology can highlight where to focus, suggest what to teach, and automate how it’s delivered, but it can’t replace the context, coaching, and judgement that people bring. 

In safety-critical industries, AI should support decision-making, not make it. The most effective learning happens when technology and human insight work together. Blending data-driven precision with empathy and experience.  

Building Trust and Governance Into AI Training As with any emerging technology, governance matters. In rail, where competence and assurance are non-negotiable, organisations need to ensure that AI-driven tools are transparent, explainable, and aligned with existing safety frameworks. 

That means: 

• Clear audit trails for automated assessments and recommendations. 

• Defined oversight from training and safety professionals. 

• Validation of AI-generated content against operational standards. 
  

Embedding this governance from the outset will be key to building confidence, both in the tools themselves and in the people using them. 

Looking Ahead: Personalised, Predictive, Practical The next frontier for AI in rail training isn’t just personalisation, it’s prediction. Imagine training systems that automatically adjust based on live operational data, incident trends, or changing technology. 

That’s the future we’re moving toward: one where training isn’t reactive but continuous and evolving with the network, the technology, and the people who keep it running. 

AI won’t replace human-led learning, but it will make it smarter, faster, and more focused, supporting the goal that matters most in rail: a safer, more resilient railway. 

Our View: With You Every Step of the Way  At Migo, we help organisations use digital tools, including AI, to enhance the way they train and support their people. 

Because when it comes to efficiency and performance, the best results come from people and technology working together, and we’re here to help you master this, every step of the way.