Robert Gardner | Technical Solutions Manager
Hitachi Rail GTS UK
Dr. Robert Gardner is a telecommunications engineer with over 20 years of experience in data communications. He currently serves as Technical Solutions Manager at Hitachi Rail, where he focuses on digital connectivity for rail vehicles including the development of the Future Railway Mobile Communications System (FRMCS) and low-cost derivatives.
Robert has authored publications across diverse fields, including alarm correlation, avionics, active measurements, and railway communications. During his tenure at Network Rail, he played a pivotal role in transitioning the railway to modern IP technology, enabling critical operational systems such as signalling, electrification, and mission-critical voice.
More recently, Robert has championed the adoption of low-earth orbit satellite connectivity to support passenger Wi-Fi, infrastructure monitoring, remote voice communications, and FRMCS services—covering in-cab signalling, train control, and enhanced passenger connectivity.
He holds a Bachelor of Engineering and a PhD from the University of Strathclyde.
Appearances:
Connected Britain 2026 - Day 2 @ 11:40
The rail revolution: Delivering high-speed connectivity across the network
- How is the deployment of trackside terrestrial and non-terrestrial infrastructure enabling seamless onboard experience for passengers and underpinning data-driven modern rail services?
- What partnership models between telcos and rail companies would facilitate the use of transport corridors for fibre backhaul?
- How can enhanced communications infrastructure improve safety and reliability across the rail network?
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