Italy’s rail sector is undergoing a phase of transformation affecting infrastructure, organisational models and human capital. Driving this shift are investments planned under the Pnrr, amounting to around €24.8 billion, alongside evolving European regulations, system digitalisation and growing attention to sustainable mobility. According to an analysis by Gi Group published on 23 March 2026, these dynamics are reshaping the skills required and professional profiles across the entire rail supply chain.
In the medium term, between 12 and 24 months, the impact on employment appears significant. The Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane Group has announced around 20,000 new hires by 2029, with rising demand for roles linked to digital technologies, signalling systems and data management. The shift is not limited to the entry of new professionals but also involves the transformation of existing roles, which are increasingly expected to integrate technical and digital skills.
Among the growing profiles are engineering roles such as Railway System Engineer, Signalling Engineer and Rams Engineer, alongside Software and Embedded Engineers and Project and Programme Managers with rail specialisation. Railway troubleshooters and multifunctional technicians also remain central, including drivers, shunters and train preparers, who ensure operational continuity. At the same time, new roles linked to digitalisation are emerging, such as Digital Railway Specialist, Data Analyst for predictive maintenance and Cyber Security Specialist.
The evolution of professional roles is accompanied by a shift in required skills. On the technical side, knowledge of signalling and control systems, rail regulations and European standards is becoming increasingly important, along with the ability to integrate complex systems and use digital and automation technologies. These are complemented by transversal skills such as systems thinking, problem-solving and a strong focus on safety, an element that is becoming ever more central in the European rail context. A decisive role is played by the introduction and spread of the European Rail Traffic Management System, a standard for rail traffic management and control adopted or under implementation in more than 50 countries. This system is accelerating technological harmonisation and requires advanced skills to ensure interoperability and safety across networks.
Companies are progressively moving beyond reactive maintenance models to adopt predictive approaches based on data analysis and continuous monitoring of infrastructure and rolling stock. In this context, software, sensors and data analytics are taking on an increasingly important role throughout the entire lifecycle of rail systems, from design to operation and maintenance. This is leading to greater integration between engineering, operations and digital technologies.
Alongside technological transformation, the issue of generational renewal is emerging. In Europe, a significant share of the rail workforce consists of senior professionals, making knowledge transfer and the entry of new qualified resources a priority. According to Gi Group, strengthening the link between companies and the education system is therefore essential to reduce the mismatch between labour supply and demand.
As Enrico Cornetta, Division Manager Aerospace, Defence, Railways and Naval at Gi Group, points out, the main challenge lies in supporting technological innovation in the face of growing demand for technical and specialist professionals. In this context, initiatives such as those of the Gi Group Training Hub, developed in collaboration with companies and training institutions, aim to train qualified profiles through academies, ITS and IFTS pathways and reskilling programmes. According to the analysis, these pathways facilitate faster job placement, reduce skills mismatches and improve employee retention, with placement rates reaching 100% in some cases.
Antonio Illariuzzi
