Massimo Di Rubbo is an Industrial Engineer based in Pistoia, Italy and has been working at Hitachi Rail for the past three years. Sheer determination, hard work and a positive approach have enabled Massimo - who has a non-visible disability and is a cancer survivor - to progress in his career. He currently works on large-scale international projects, such as designing and integrating work for metro rail projects in North America.
In this interview, we asked him about his experience of working at Hitachi Rail and the challenges he had to overcome in his career.
Massimo can you tell us more about your job and a project you are working on currently?
I am an Industrial Engineer who has specialised in engineering design, and I have specialised in technical aeronautical design. At Hitachi Rail I am a Specialist Engineer and my work is a mix between an Integrator and a Systemist. I help design compartment and cab furnishings and work as a Mechanical Integrator.
I am currently working on North American metro projects – Metro Washington, Metro Ontario and I am well integrated into the mass transit group for the American market.
How long have you worked within Hitachi Rail and what has been your experience so far?
I have been with Hitachi for three years, having started my career here in November of 2020 and I am very happy to be part of the company. In some of my past work experiences, I have had problems with inclusion. I have a non-visible disability; a disability that is not immediately obvious. People often have a stereotype in their mind of what a disabled people looks like, but as my disability cannot be seen when you first meet me – I did find that my professionalism was not taken seriously.
Throughout my life I have spent a lot of energy to pursue my studies and make my dreams come true. My health issues affected my education and career - I had to interrupt my training or work several times to get marrow transplant treatments in the past for example. This delayed completion of my graduation degree but I was determined and did not let my age deter me, while pursuing my dreams.
In the end, I persevered and got my degree in engineering and I am happy with my career today.
At Hitachi Rail, I feel like I can express myself at my best and that's thanks to both the company mentality and my colleagues, who are really supportive. For me, in the slogan ‘Inspire the Next’ …the "Next" is "inclusion".
What’s your advice for employers and employees on International Day for People with Disabilities?
For companies to be really inclusive, it is important to sensitise all colleagues to various aspects of DE&I. Every category has its unique challenges, like mine which is a non-visible disability. Education is really important, alongside compassion and understanding at all levels of the business.
For people with disabilities, today there are many opportunities and tools to empower ourselves. Never be disheartened and never feel like your disability has to hold you back - I love travelling abroad and riding bikes which keeps me happy - you need to find things which can keep you smiling!
To find out more about careers at Hitachi Rail, please click here to visit our careers pages.
