Story’s Emma Porter joins Railway Industry Association board 

Emma Porter, Chair of Story Plant Limited has been appointed to the Railway Industry Association (RIA) board. Emma will play a key role in supporting the strategic direction of RIA – the UK’s national trade body for suppliers to the railway industry, as one of the organisation’s 15 RIA Board members – 14 suppliers plus Chair.

Emma’s appointment comes as RIA membership has grown to over 360 companies from across the supply chain, reflecting a great diversity of disciplines within the rail sector. The association supports the delivery of a bigger and better rail industry, representing the sector as an essential generator of economic growth, jobs, and investment, supporting a low-carbon form of mass transit for communities across the UK.

Reflecting on her Board appointment, Emma said: “Joining the Railway Industry Association board is a great opportunity to contribute to an industry that plays a vital role in connecting communities, providing clean sustainable travel and supporting thriving economies. I’m looking forward to collaborating with industry leaders and am passionate about and committed to playing my part in contributing to driving positive change within the rail sector.”

Emma Porter has a strong track record working in construction and infrastructure. With a strong reputation for delivery and getting the best from people, Emma chairs the award-winning Story Plant team, providing specialist operated road rail vehicles, haulage, POS management, tool hire and consumable sales services to the railway industry in the UK.

Emma has a strong desire to make a difference and cares deeply about sustainability, inclusivity, and diversity in the industry. Her passion for sustainability and creating an environment for people of all backgrounds to thrive is demonstrated through numerous roles outside of Story, including being a Women in Rail champion and Founder/Director of The Rebuild Site which facilitates the construction sector to move from Take-Make-Use-Waste to a circular economy of Rethink-Reclaim-Reuse.

David Tonkin, Chairman of the Railway Industry Association, said: “We are delighted to welcome Emma to the RIA Board. With a long track record in the UK’s infrastructure sector, Emma will be a huge asset to the team and support RIA and our member organisations’ in delivering a bigger, better, and more sustainable rail industry in the years to come.”