What attracted you to the transportation industry?
I was working in the hospitality industry and was ready for a change. My best friend Liz Nauman worked for the Rail Runner and roped me in!
What has been your greatest professional achievement?
Working my way up the ladder to Locomotive Engineer.
How have women made a difference in the transportation industry?
Women have a natural ability to coach and mentor that I feel is necessary in this growing industry. We have a way of explaining things in multiple ways so that all feel included. Currently there are a lot of new changes being implemented on our railroad and we have multiple amazing women that have been a big part of the training and mentoring process during this time.
What was the biggest influence in your selection of a career in transportation?
It seemed like a very different and cool career to be in.
What is your favorite aspect of your job?
Being able to say, as a woman, that I operate a train locomotive. Not that many women get to say that!
What lessons have you been taught from the important women in your life that you have applied to your own life?
My mom taught me to always be honest and true to myself and your people, and your tribe will find you.
How have these lessons helped you succeed as a woman in transportation?
Being honest and my true self has led me down a path that has allowed me to meet some of the most amazing people. Which in turn led me to where I am now.
What natural talents do you possess that help in your chosen career?
I’m patient and confident in my knowledge of train operations and rules. I have the ability of making people feel comfortable. I’m versatile in my teachings and I’m able to adapt to individuals’ different learning styles.
What part of your career story would you like to share with the world?
As a conductor, I trained new conductors which allowed me to pass on my six years of experience in that role. What’s unique about that is at every level, the on-the-job training is done by people who have been in that position for a while. And even now as an engineer, I still train new conductors. It’s so rewarding being able to share my knowledge and when I see someone struggling and then finally have an “aha moment”- it’s a great feeling.
How long have you been working for the company/organization? And what positions have to you held prior to your current one?
10 years and during that time, one and half years as a Ticket Agent, 6 years as a Conductor, and 2 years as a Locomotive Engineer.
How does what you do/what the organization does make a positive impact in the community?
We have many different entities that allow for travels way beyond just the rail. In my years of working on the train I have seen so many families stay connected taking the train and buses from county to county.
What do you think is needed to further attract women to the transportation workforce?
To put out there to not be intimidated by a male dominant field. These men have helped me through some of the toughest times of my life. They have celebrated my success, picked me up when I was down and encouraged me in times of doubt. All of them have played a different role in my life and I am forever grateful.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to enter this industry?
When in doubt, take the safest course.
As told to Allyne Clarke, Marketing Manager, Rio Metro Regional Transit District.
