In an industry where precision and innovation are paramount, QTS Group is setting a new standard for surveying capabilities in the rail sector. The contractor has expanded its survey team by 50% over the past year, a strategic move that underscores the growing demand for advanced surveying services across the UK. This expansion is not just about numbers; it’s about enhancing expertise, diversifying skills, and investing in cutting-edge technology to deliver unparalleled service quality.
The team’s growth has been meticulously planned, with a focus on both recruitment and internal promotions. New hires have bolstered the team’s capabilities, while internal management promotions have added structure and strength. The team’s skill set continues to evolve, covering laser scanning, topographical surveying, and drone operations. Three members are fully qualified remote drone pilots, and one is currently in training, ensuring that the team remains at the forefront of technological advancements.
QTS Group’s commitment to innovation is evident in its recent investment in new technology. The acquisition of a new drone platform allows remote browsers to access survey data, while a high-resolution Phase One camera has increased image quality from 45MP to 100MP. This new equipment has doubled operational capacity within a month of being in operation, a testament to the team’s adaptability and the effectiveness of the technology.
The team has also implemented a Remote Monitoring System, enabling total stations to be controlled remotely for automated track monitoring. This reduces the need for personnel on site, enhancing safety and efficiency. Work is underway to explore the use of drones in confined spaces for future applications, further pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in surveying.
What sets QTS Group apart is its ownership of all equipment used by the team. Unlike many contractors in the industry who rely on hired, lower specification systems, QTS Group invests in high-end, wholly owned equipment. This ensures consistency, reliability, and the highest possible standards in every project.
Kennedy Hamilton, national survey manager at QTS Group, captured the essence of this growth and innovation: “Our team has seen remarkable growth, both in size and capability. We are committed to giving our people the tools, technology and opportunities they need to thrive, because happy surveyors are good surveyors and good surveyors do the best work. By investing in high end equipment and internal progression, we are building a surveying operation that is truly industry leading while staying practical and value driven in our approach to innovation.”
Beyond the technical advancements, QTS Group is also deeply committed to community and education engagement. Through the Get Kids into Survey initiative, the company is sponsoring a character based on a team member’s likeness for use in educational posters in schools. The survey team also has a regular presence at QTS Group’s training events, including its annual Future of Rail celebration. This allows them to demonstrate product and service capabilities to internal and external audiences, including school and college pupils, and industry partners.
This holistic approach to growth—focusing on people, technology, and community—positions QTS Group as a leader in the rail surveying sector. As the industry continues to evolve, the contractor’s commitment to innovation and excellence will undoubtedly shape the future of construction and infrastructure development.