A new regional Women in Bus and Coach network in Wales will boost the industry in a region where public transport is vital, writes the organisation’s Chair, Laura Hadzik
Across the coach, bus, and community transport sector, connection matters – between communities, services, and the people who rely on them every day.
Nowhere does that seem more relevant than in Wales, which is why it felt so significant for us at Women in Bus and Coach to officially launch our new regional group there last month.
Led by Chair Madeleine Goodson, the Senior Project Manager at Transport for Wales, and Vice Chair Michelle Clarke, Deputy Director for Wales at the Community Transport Association, alongside a passionate local steering group, the new Wales regional network represents far more than simply another network.
It reflects the significant role transport plays in people’s lives, and the equally important one that people play in shaping the future of our industry.
In Wales particularly, transport is about far more than getting from A to B. It is a lifeline for rural communities, a link to education and employment, access to healthcare and social connection, and a vital part of supporting local economies.
At the same time, there is real momentum around integrated networks, decarbonisation, and creating services that better reflect the needs of passengers and communities alike.
That matters because investment in transport is never just about vehicles or infrastructure; it is ultimately about people.
It is about creating a sector that is more inclusive, more innovative, and more representative of the communities we serve, and that is exactly why organisations like WiBC matter.
When WiBC was established, it was built on a simple but powerful belief: by supporting women across our sector through visibility, networks, and opportunities, we strengthen the entire industry.
While progress is being made, women remain under-represented across many areas of transport, particularly in operational, engineering, and senior leadership roles.
Encouragingly, though, conversations are changing and more organisations are recognising that diversity is not simply a “nice to have” but an essential part of building resilient businesses.
That is why regional networks matter so much. Real progress happens locally through conversations, relationships and collaboration, and by creating communities where people feel supported and encouraged to step forward.
Wales already has a strong sense of community and collaboration, and I genuinely believe this regional group has the potential to become something incredibly powerful, not only for WiBC, but for the wider industry across Wales.
Importantly, this is not just about women. WiBC is for everyone who believes in creating a stronger, fairer, and more inclusive industry, and allies play a critical role in driving meaningful change across the sector.
That feels particularly important at a time when the coach, bus, and community transport sector continues to face challenges around recruitment, retention, decarbonisation and changing passenger expectations. But with challenge also comes opportunity.
This is our chance to shape the future of passenger transport and build a sector that is sustainable and fit for the future.
The launch of our Wales region is an important step forward, and there is more exciting news to come as WiBC continues to grow its regional presence across the UK.
And for anyone interested in becoming part of the conversation, supporting their local regional group or finding out more about WiBC, we would encourage you to get in touch at hello@womeninbusandcoach.org.uk
