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.
Vaidas Ulenskas, GIS Team Leader, RB Rail AS
This week, we are pleased to introduce Vaidas Ulenskas, GIS Team Leader at RB Rail AS. Vaidas joined the Rail Baltica project in 2019, motivated by the rare opportunity to build the project’s GIS function from the ground up. His career path has evolved alongside the organisation, transitioning from BIM coordination to leading the GIS team within the Virtual Design and Construction department. Vaidas sees Rail Baltica as a meaningful challenge – one that pushes the Baltic region forward and strengthens its place in Europe. Driven by ambition and a passion for continuous growth, he encourages newcomers to seize opportunities, take initiative, and share their work confidently.
When did you join the Rail Baltica project and what inspired you to become a part of the team?
I joined Rail Baltica back in 2019. At that time, there was not any GIS work happening yet, so the chance to build something from scratch was exciting.
How has your role evolved since you first joined the Rail Baltica project, and what have you learned along the way?
I started working in the BIM team as a GIS and BIM coordinator. Over time, the team evolved into today’s Virtual Design and Construction department, and my role shifted more toward GIS, eventually leading the GIS team. What I have learned is that change is a natural part of growth – it is something to embrace, not resist.
What does the Rail Baltica project mean to you?
I have often heard people say that the Baltic countries are not ready, politically and financially, for a megaproject like this. That is partly true. But the biggest progress usually comes with the biggest challenges. Rail Baltica challenges us in every possible way, and that is exactly what makes it so meaningful. It is our way to become real Europeans.
What advice would you give to a newcomer joining the Rail Baltica project team?
For me, being recognized professionally – especially internationally – has always been important. Rail Baltica is big enough to give us that chance. The opportunities are here, but you have to be ready to grab them. So be ambitious, take initiative, and don’t hesitate to talk about your work.
What is it about the rail industry that you love?
Railways are kind of hidden from everyday life – you do not see trains as much as, say, cars or even planes. That gives this industry a bit of mystery, some call it “railway romance.” Being a part of it makes you feel special, like you belong to a secret society. And honestly, I think everyone should take a break from their car now and then and just enjoy a train ride.
What hobbies, interests, talents do you have?
I am both a runner and a cyclist – though these two are always competing for my time. My guilty pleasure is exploring new cities, especially foreign ones, on foot. I love just wandering for hours without a set plan – it is not the most efficient way to see a new city, but it is the best way to feel like a local.