What attracted you to the transportation industry?
In 20 years, I have only ever met two people that selected Transit as a career and unlike them I wasn’t looking for a job in the Transit industry. I was looking for a position with benefits and retirement. The Transit Superintendent with the local transit system reached out to me on a regular basis for a position with them. I would let her know I wasn’t interested, but eventually I agreed to sit down with her and learn more about the position.
What has been your greatest professional achievement?
I have had many, but I’m especially proud of having a well-rounded skillset. From learning all aspects that go into providing public transportation, to obtaining my CDL, providing day to day oversight, working on bus stop construction projects, grant management and applications, building routes and driver schedules or driving buses to get passengers where they need to go. I’ve done a lot, but I will say working on special projects was exciting for me.
How have women made a difference in the transportation industry?
By bringing balance, compassion, and empathy, we are able to bring a different perspective that might otherwise not be considered when decisions are being made. We can also be persistent when needed.
What was the biggest influence in your selection of a career in transportation?
Once I made the decision to work in this field, I realized early on that this was going to be my career for life. Understanding the vital need for transit services for those without transportation helped to solidify my decision.
There have been many elderly passengers that I have spoken to over the years who have expressed such appreciation for the services and bus drivers. Their ability to use public transportation in their communities allowed them to maintain their independence get out to community events, doctor appointments, grocery stores, just not be stuck at home waiting for friends or family to take them.
What is your favorite aspect of your job?
Professional development. Transportation is multifaceted and there is always something new to learn. I have learned so much and I enjoy sharing that with others. I have never experienced a dull moment in any of my positions. Learn and shine, and you will grow.
What lessons have you been taught from the important women in your life that you have applied to your own life?
Check in on each other. I have an amazing support group across my personal and professional life. Trust your gut and make a decision for good or bad. Many female leaders took me in early in my career and provided amazing guidance and support.
How have these lessons helped you succeed as a woman in transportation?
I have had great opportunities to try new things, to be able to succeed and to fail, and always encouraged to get right back up and do it all over again. Having those check ins allowed me to work through ideas or issues. Its nice to be able to bounce off ideas with each other or to just make sure everything is okay.
What natural talents do you possess that help in your chosen career?
Decision making and teamwork. Decision making skills are important in transit. Things can change quickly from one minute to the next and most days are never the same. Being able to make a decision quickly and communicating the details of the decision is just as important. Teamwork is one of my greatest strengths. I have always been willing to get in the weeds with my staff, either by working in the field, on the bus as support for the drivers or passengers, driving or filling in on a panel of speakers when needed. Saying your part of the team and being a part of the team are two very different things and it’s important to know what side of the team you are on.
What part of your career story would you like to share with the world?
I learned how to drive a bus because my grandma needed more options to get to her doctor appointments, but she was afraid to use the service.
How long have you been working for the company/organization? And what positions have you held prior to your current one?
Five months. I have worked for the Town of Taos Chile Line Transit System for 10 years as an Administrative Assistant/Dispatcher/Driver and Transit Superintendent; as the Rural Program Manager, Management Analyst and Rural Program Supervisor for NMDOT for 3 years; and most recently as Operations Director for the North Central Regional Transit District for 7 years.
How does what you do/what the organization does make a positive impact in the community?
By providing technical assistance and support we are able to share information and contacts across various transportation agencies. This information sharing allows improvements and advancements to be made for constituents and travelers across the state.
What do you think is needed to further attract women to the transportation workforce?
Promotion, networking, and mentorship programs. There are so many areas of opportunity in transit that often go unlooked because we don’t promote our industry as a career path very well.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to enter this industry?
Don’t think twice! Jump on the bus and see where transit can take you.
As told to Allyne Clarke, Marketing Manager, Rio Metro Regional Transit District.
