Rail Baltica is a railway infrastructure megaproject that spans across several countries. The depth of skills and expertise required to successfully execute a greenfield project of this caliber is extensive and would not be possible without our diverse team of professionals.
Welcome back to our series, “Rail Baltica: The People Behind the Vision,” where we introduce you to the members of the Rail Baltica global project team. These individuals are the driving force advancing the Rail Baltica project with their professionalism, dedication, and passion for this project.
Madara Balode-Sausiņa, Quality Manager, RB Rail AS
This week, we are pleased to introduce Madara Balode-Sausiņa, Quality Manager at RB Rail AS. Inspired by the scale and vision of Rail Baltica, Madara joined the project at the end of 2024, motivated by its long-term value for society and future generations. Within her first year, she advanced from Quality Assurance Engineer to Quality Manager, taking on the responsibility of overseeing the Quality Management System and ensuring alignment with international standards. Her adaptability, solution-oriented mindset, and dedication to continuous improvement reflect her commitment to building something truly significant, with a lasting impact on one of Europe’s most transformative transport projects.
When did you join the Rail Baltica project and what inspired you to become a part of the team?
I joined the Rail Baltica project at the end of 2024. What inspired me most was the scale and vision of the initiative. It is a project with real, long-term value for both society and future generations. Knowing that my work contributes to something significant keeps me motivated day to day.
How has your role evolved since you first joined the Rail Baltica project, and what have you learned along the way?
I started as a Quality Assurance Engineer and, within my first year at RB Rail, I had the opportunity to take on the role of Quality Manager. This transition was both exciting and challenging, and it gave me a broader perspective on how quality impacts the organization at every level. One of the key things I have learned is that this project operates in a truly dynamic and fast-paced environment. Priorities shift, new challenges arise, and no two days are exactly the same. It has taught me to stay adaptable and proactive, always looking for the best solutions. This experience has helped me grow both professionally and personally, reinforcing the importance of staying open-minded and focused on progress.
What does your job involve?
As a Quality Manager, I am responsible for overseeing the RB Rail Quality Management System and ensuring it operates effectively in line with international standards such as ISO 9001. Although different teams across the organization develop their own processes, my role is to ensure these processes are well-documented, aligned with company objectives, and applied consistently. I coordinate internal and external audits, monitor compliance with established standards, and actively support continuous improvement by identifying areas where we can enhance our ways of working.
What advice would you give to a newcomer joining the Rail Baltica project team?
Newcomers should understand that this is a complex project with many details but should not be discouraged by that. Take it step by step and never hesitate to reach out to your colleagues for support. Teamwork and communication are essential here. Also, keep the bigger picture in mind. It is easy to get caught up in daily tasks but remember: we are not just working on a project, we are building something truly significant, with a lasting impact. The decisions and actions we take today will shape the final result in the future. That is why it is so important to approach your work with care, thoughtfulness, and a sense of responsibility.
What do you see as the challenges to attracting more women into rail and what do you think could be done to make a difference?
There is still a general perception that rail is a male-dominated industry, which can discourage women from considering careers in this field. However, I believe Rail Baltica is already making meaningful progress in changing that. We have strong female role models – engineers, managers, and specialists – whose contributions are visible and valued. By highlighting their achievements, we not only inspire the public but also encourage younger generations of women to see rail as a dynamic and inclusive career path.
In your opinion what is the recipe for success, for team, career or otherwise?
I believe the key to success lies in open communication, flexibility, and a solution-oriented mindset. Whether in a team or individual career path, being able to express ideas clearly and listen to others with respect is essential. You will often encounter different perspectives. Being flexible and willing to adapt helps turn those differences into opportunities for better outcomes. It is also important not to dwell on problems but to focus on finding practical solutions. Challenges are inevitable, but how we approach them makes all the difference. And of course, teamwork plays a crucial role, and success is rarely achieved alone.