Fifteen years ago, Jordan Oustambasidis walked out of university and into the world of train control systems, beginning his career at UGL. From his early days in rail to his current role as national engineering manager for train control, his journey has been marked by growth, challenges, and a deep commitment to innovation.
“Engineering is all about solving problems," says Jordan. "I love peeling back the layers of an issue and uncovering the root cause. It’s that hands-on problem-solving that keeps me passionate about this field.”
Starting as a graduate engineer, Jordan quickly became involved in train control projects and deeply embedded in the development of UGL’s SigView Train Control System, which remains in operation across key rail networks today. His early work on the implementation of SigView solidified his passion for control systems and, unbeknownst to him at the time, formed the foundation of his career.
SigView is UGL’s Australian designed and made train control system, developed to meet the evolving needs of rail operations across the country. With over 30 years of heritage, SigView is designed with a focus on reliability, efficiency, and adaptability. The system offers high availability through built-in redundancy and fault tolerance, while supporting integration with both modern and legacy infrastructure. By streamlining operational processes and incorporating features like timetable integration, automated routing, and real-time alarm management, SigView helps rail operators improve service reliability and overall network performance.
For Jordan, UGL isn’t just a workplace — it’s a platform for continuous growth and innovation.
“I’ve spent my whole career at UGL because I’ve always been given opportunities to grow — whether it was in the same field or moving into something completely new," he says. "That’s what’s kept me engaged and constantly learning.”
In 2018, an opportunity arose for Jordan to shift gears — this time into the roads sector as a project manager. Over the next five years, he led control systems projects and maintenance contracts for major roads and tunnel systems networks across Australia.
With a wealth of experience under his belt, Jordan found himself drawn back to rail and not long after, he transitioned into his current role as national engineering manager, where he now leads a team of 35 engineers across New South Wales and Victoria. His focus has now shifted to managing the growth of our people, and UGL’s most recent product innovations including UGL’s Electronic Train Order (ETO) and Worker on Track Authority (WOTA) systems, which use existing onboard equipment, mobile devices, and GPS to manage train movements and worker safety in real time. Together, these systems offer a practical, modernised approach to train control that enhances visibility, reduces manual workload, and supports safer, more efficient rail operations.
“I started my career in train control, moved into roads, and now I’m back in rail, looking after the same systems I helped build years ago," says Jordan. "It's come full circle.”
From a fresh graduate to a leader shaping the future of train control, Jordan’s journey at UGL is a testament to the power of opportunity, mentorship, and a relentless passion for engineering.
