David Tyson Memorial Fund
About the Fund
The David Tyson Memorial Fund was established in 2017 to support young people pursuing careers in rail engineering and related engineering disciplines.
A Legacy of Excellence in Rail Engineering
The fund was created in memory of David Tyson (1948–2015), a highly respected permanent way engineer whose expertise shaped major railway projects in the UK and overseas. Known for his remarkable ability to design seamless track alignments, David was a Fellow of the Permanent Way Institution and a valued mentor who inspired many young engineers. His contributions to track engineering software development remain widely used in the industry today.
Supporting Young Engineers
The David Tyson Memorial Fund provides grants between £100 – £500 to help young people aged 16–25 with a passion for engineering. In exceptional cases, awards of up to £1,000 may be considered. The fund focuses on supporting rail engineering students, although applications from other engineering disciplines are also welcome.
The funding can be used for:
✅ Course fees and accreditation
✅ Essential study resources (books, software)
✅ Travel to courses and training sites
✅ Specialist equipment, tools, or materials
✅ Work-based training costs
Making an impact
The fund has already helped many aspiring engineers achieve their goals. A 2023 grant recipient shared their experience:
“The David Tyson Memorial Fund provided me with invaluable financial support throughout my university journey, alleviating the burden of educational expenses. Thanks to their generosity, I could focus on my studies without constant financial worries, paving the way for a successful academic experience.”
By removing financial barriers, the fund enables young people to develop the skills, confidence, and qualifications needed for a successful career in engineering.
How to apply
Applications are open year-round, and there is no closing date. Eligible applicants must be:
✔ Aged 16–25 and motivated to pursue a career in engineering
✔ Resident in Surrey or within 25 miles of the county (for general engineering applications)
✔ Resident in England and studying rail engineering (for rail-specific applications)
Applications are reviewed by a dedicated Fund Panel, with outcomes typically provided within six weeks. Send completed application forms to nicola@cfsurrey.org.uk
Continuing David Tyson’s legacy
Through this fund, David’s passion for rail engineering continues to inspire and support future generations. His dedication to innovation, mentoring, and skill development lives on, ensuring that young engineers have the resources and opportunities to succeed.
Who to talk to
For any enquiries relating to Grants to Individuals Programme, please contact Nicola, our Grants Fund Manager.
Nicola Bartlett
(She/Her)
Grants Fund Manager
01483 478091
nicola@cfsurrey.org.uk
Mon - Fri: 9am - 5.30pm
(Away every second Fri as part of a 9-day fortnight)