Early Careers Group An Introduction To Railway Noise And Vibration Paul Shields

An introduction to railway noise and vibration – Paul Shields

The talk will cover the main sources of railway related noise and vibration, the mechanisms and control

Paul has spent over 35 years working in acoustic consultancy and research and a Fellow of the Institute of Acoustics (IOA) His areas of expertise include environmental noise and vibration particular regarding industry, large scale construction, and railways and in leading teams. He has worked on some of the UK’s largest engineering projects including Crossrail, Thames Tideway Tunnel and High speed 1 and 2.

Paul’s career in acoustics began in the rail industry focussing on wheel/rail noise control and rail vehicle acoustics. This was followed by several years as an independent consultant working for train manufacturers and for London Underground where he was responsible for assessing and finding engineering solutions to N+V complaints. He then worked with Alstom on the acoustic performance of the Class 390 train before joining what is now AECOM in 2002.  In 2024 he took on a senior lecturing role with University of Derby.

He has served on various IOA committees and in 2024 he became President Elect. Previously he also served as a board member of the Association of Noise Consultants (ANC), including time as its Chair. His involvement and networking in the IOA and ANC mean he has a comprehensive knowledge of who are the relevant experts across different fields in the UK acoustics industry. He believes strongly in providing opportunities for all to develop themselves, not just for early careers but for those who wish to build or just maintain competence in their chosen fields