Many people who work at Metro Transit take on new responsibilities and roles throughout their careers. Career Tracks highlights the paths employees have taken to their latest assignment and where they see themselves going next. To learn more about career opportunities at Metro Transit and the Metropolitan Council, visit metrocouncil.org/employment.
How did you begin your career at Metro Transit?
After managing restaurants and a security company, I worked as a supervisor at a school bus company. I started working here as a part-time weekend operator to make some extra money. Eventually, I started here full-time. After about the tenth year, I wanted to do something different, so I became a relief instructor and applied for the Leadership Academy (a program that helps frontline staff earn supervisory experience in acting management roles). I wanted to become a Transit Supervisor, but I got the opportunity to do my on-the-job experience as an Assistant Transportation Manager at South Garage, where I had the best mentor in the universe (retired Assistant Transportation Manager Barb Keener). Not long after finishing the program, I applied and was hired as an Assistant Transportation Manager.
How did the Leadership Academy help you reach your career goals?
I had a lot of management experience, and the work I did at the school bus company was very similar to what I do now. But the processes here are different. The Leadership Academy was instrumental in providing the skills I needed to navigate all of that successfully. It was also a great way to test the waters without fear of drowning.
What advice do you have for others who want to take on more or different responsibilities?
There’s tremendous opportunity to grow at Metro Transit but getting hired here isn’t a short or easy process. You have to be diligent, or you can miss opportunities. It’s also important not to get defeated – I applied for several jobs before getting into the Leadership Academy. And ultimately, it’s about trusting your gut. If you think something is right for you and you think you can do it, you’re probably right.