Rail Baltica is a railway infrastructure megaproject that spans across several countries. The depth of skills and expertise required to successfully execute a greenfield project of this caliber is extensive and would not be possible without our diverse team of professionals.
Welcome back to our series, “Rail Baltica: The People Behind the Vision,” where we introduce you to the members of the Rail Baltica global project team. These individuals are the driving force advancing the Rail Baltica project with their professionalism, dedication, and passion for this project.
Birgit Vanaveski, Health and Safety Manager, Rail Baltic Estonia
This week, we are excited to introduce our colleague Birgit Vanaveski from Rail Baltic Estonia, where she serves as the Health and Safety Manager. In her role, Birgit brings invaluable expertise in maintaining safety standards and ensuring smooth project operations. In this interview, she shares her perspective on health and safety, as well as her passion for contributing to the success of the Rail Baltica project.
When did you join the Rail Baltica project and what inspired you to become a part of the team?
I joined Rail Baltic Estonia in September 2023, shortly after returning to Estonia following nearly six years in Australia. During my time there, I had the opportunity to work as a Safety and Environment Manager for one of the largest privately owned bus operators, managing depots and workshops across two states. After that experience, I was looking for a new opportunity and a team I would enjoy just as much. Rail Baltic has always been on my radar, and I have been interested in the project from the start. In fact, I applied for an Environmental Specialist position back in 2017, but I did not get the role due to my limited experience in the industry at that time. It is a great reminder that a “no” at one point can eventually turn into a “yes.”
What is it about the rail industry that you love?
Possibilities! Possibilities for travel, economic growth and the sense of security and stability that it will offer through better connectivity with Europe. I am passionate about transportation and infrastructure with its potential to shape the future. The rail industry is such a dynamic and critical part of sustainable development, especially here in Estonia with the Rail Baltic project. I love that rail not only connects people and cities but also serves as a key enabler for economic growth and environmental sustainability. There is something incredibly satisfying about being part of a project that is literally building the future, connecting the Baltic States to the rest of Europe. It is a challenging and rewarding field where innovation and engineering meet real-world impact.
In your opinion, what is the recipe for success, for team, career, or otherwise?
Success, for me, is built on three main pillars: trust, collaboration, and continuous learning. In a team, it is crucial to foster a culture where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered to contribute. I think it is important to remain curious and adaptable—do not be afraid to take on new challenges, learn from others, and continuously evolve your skill set. Being open to change and having a clear sense of purpose in your work can make a significant difference. You cannot have a successful career if you are stuck in the same spot—whether it is professionally or because your chair’s become so comfortable you have forgotten what moving feels like. And never forget that success is not just about achieving your own goals, but also helping your team and colleagues succeed along the way. This I would call success both professionally and personally.
What do you see as the challenges to attracting more women into rail, and what do you think could be done to make a difference?
One of the challenges in attracting more women into rail is that the industry has historically been male-dominated, and there can still be stereotypes about what roles women are suited for in this field. It is crucial to challenge those perceptions and provide strong female role models who can inspire the next generation. Companies and projects like Rail Baltic are already making strides by promoting diversity and inclusion. I believe we need to continue making the industry more welcoming by fostering an environment where women feel supported and encouraged to pursue all areas of rail—from engineering and technical roles to leadership positions. Furthermore, promoting work-life balance, offering mentorship programs, and showcasing women’s successes in rail can be great steps to making a difference.
What do you believe is the most challenging aspect of this mega project?
The most challenging aspect of a project like Rail Baltic is definitely coordinating the complexity and scale across multiple countries and stakeholders. The project spans Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, which means aligning the various national regulations, timelines, and local interests while maintaining a common vision. It is a bit like trying to get three chefs in different kitchens to make the same dish at the same time. Add in the logistical challenges of integrating new infrastructure with existing systems, and it becomes a truly intricate puzzle. But, with the right team and clear communication, these challenges are what make the project exciting and rewarding.
In your career, what is the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?
I think the biggest challenge I have faced in my career has been stepping into roles that required me to expand my skill set beyond my comfort zone, while also finding my footing in Australia. There, I was often seen as an outsider due to my nationality, and as a young female in a male-dominated industry like transportation, I had to work even harder to prove myself. The same challenges have presented themselves in the construction and rail sectors here in Estonia. It is not always easy, but overcoming those moments of self-doubt and pushing through the obstacles is where real growth happens. Along the way, I have also learned the value of asking questions and maintaining the right attitude—being open to learning from others rather than assuming you know best. This mindset has been crucial in navigating these challenges successfully.