Jason Zhou is a Technology Strategy Engineer at Downer Rail & Transit Systems, driving innovation at the intersection of robotics, artificial intelligence, and data-driven maintenance for the rail industry. He leads the development of world-first autonomous robotic cleaning systems for passenger trains, alongside projects involving rail facility inspection drones, robotic train examination systems, and generative AI models for automated fault analysis.

Since joining Downer in 2020, Jason has contributed to major national initiatives including the TrainDNA predictive maintenance platform, Australia’s first hydrogen train feasibility study, and large-scale asset optimisation programs delivering over $130 million in savings. His work integrates engineering rigour, digital transformation, and sustainability to advance the future of rail maintenance.

Jason’s leadership has been recognised with multiple national awards, including the 2025 Rail Innovation of the Year Award for the autonomous cleaning robot program, 2025 Outstanding Nominee for Emerging Engineer by Engineers Australia, and the 2024 RISSB Emerging Leader Award. He holds a Bachelor of Science and Engineering (Honours) from Monash University and continues to champion “Maintenance 4.0” practices across the Australasian rail network.