How can high‑speed rail programs be planned and delivered to stand the test of time?

High‑speed rail (HSR) programs are among the most complex infrastructure projects undertaken. They span decades, involve intense public scrutiny and require early decisions that shape cost, risk and outcomes for generations. While technical challenges are often visible and become the project’s focus, a common challenge across major HSR programs is recognizing the transformational potential of high-speed rail investment and the potential misalignment between business case objectives, investment appetite alongside stakeholder expectations.

Jacobs Program Director Michael Jamieson works with clients and delivery teams to bring clarity to these challenges, with a strong focus on holistic, planned project development. His approach emphasizes identifying key drivers early, as well as engaging stakeholders and proactively managing risk.

Because HSR investment projects involve long time frames, Michael’s approach is to support efficient delivery by maintaining clarity around objectives and long‑term project benefits, while ensuring these are consistently reflected in project requirements, development and delivery. This approach supports project definition that considers delivery risk in its broadest sense and builds mitigations into development and delivery from the outset, especially during early development, when decisions shape long‑term cost and delivery outcomes.

Michael believes collaboration is key to driving a “best-for-project” approach. He is a strong advocate for integrated teams and transparent management and promotes structured engagement across all stakeholders throughout the development journey.

What motivates Michael most is working with clients and teams to solve complex challenges to deliver infrastructure that creates lasting value for communities and economies, while contributing to future mobility.