A Nottingham tram driver has been named employee of the year at an awards ceremony, known as the ‘Oscars of the light rail industry’.
NET employee Daniel Patterson scooped the honour at the awards in London in front of more than 200 top figures in the industry after being nominated by NET’s operating company, Keolis.
The 21-year-old was praised for his customer service as well as commitment to trams and light rail outside of his normal work.
Daniel has previously organised tours of Nottingham’s modern tramway alongside volunteering at the historical Crich Tramway Village in Derbyshire on his days off.
Originally joining the NET team as a customer service assistant, Daniel says he has always been a ‘people person’ and has a customer first approach.
“The customers are the most important part of everything we do. Even though I might not have to talk to them directly, I do everything I can to make sure their experience with us is a better one,” he said.
“I was ecstatic, I was shocked. It was fantastic to be recognised in that way. I was really proud to represent everyone and to be able to thank everyone who has helped me in the four years I’ve worked here.”
He also received an internal Employee of the Year Award from NET. The company’s Director and General Manager Paul Robinson says he is a deserved winner.
“We’re incredibly proud of Daniel for winning this award amongst stiff competition from others working in the light rail industry.
“It is fantastic recognition for the hard work and commitment he shows every day. His experience in our customer services team and now as a driver, has made him a real ‘people person’ and he always takes great care of anyone he comes into contact with on our system.”
