Across the organization, Metro Transit employees’ work has been changed by the COVID-19 pandemic. These "In These Together" Q&As illustrate how employees are adapting both on and off the clock. Read more interviews here.
Amanda Walker, Assistant Transportation Manager
How has the pandemic affected your day-to-day work?
With all these changes happening, there was an initial feeling of chaos, including being uprooted from my normal workplace. As the pandemic began, I was moved from Nicollet Garage to Ruter on temporary assignment. As an assistant transportation manager, I wear many hats to support operators, including payroll, coaching, counseling, and customer service. We coordinate with the safety department and instruction department, too.
While the day-to-day job functions haven't changed, what has changed is an increase in communication. There's more emails and meetings to ensure we're up-to-date on the latest new policies and that our operators know what to expect. It feels less chaotic now that we have a more pandemic-based routine, but every day we encounter new information or someone who might be feeling the stress of this situation.
What’s it like working through a pandemic?
It's like any other day, except with extra anxiety and stress. Thankfully, my children are not school aged, so I am used to having them be home all day. I feel for my co-workers who do have school aged children who return home after a long shift to be not only parents, but teachers, too. My empathy not only goes out to my co-workers but my operators as well. Some operators are fearful about being on the front lines every day, others are not. Everyone handles it differently based on their situation. When an operator is feeling anxious, It's my job to be a calming presence during their storm. Simply put: We're in this together.
How has your life changed outside of work?
With any bad situation, there's always a silver lining to be found. At home, I'm finding I have more energy to complete projects that I've been putting off. And, I've discovered that I'm saving a ton of money by not eating out and cooking at home! I'm happy to find that I'm reading books again. Some normal activities continue but just change locations, like working out at home instead of the gym.
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