A group of 17 aspiring technicians were celebrated last week as they prepared to take the next step toward full-time roles in Bus Maintenance.
The recognition was the latest benchmark for the Metro Transit Technician Training Program, which puts job seekers with little or no experience on a path to careers in bus or rail maintenance.
The program combines training, a full-time paid internship and support toward earning an associates degree. Several early participants are now working in full-time roles, while others are finishing their course work.
Participants who were recognized last week recently completed career and on-the-job training and are now beginning as full-time interns and students at Hennepin Technical College.
The event also celebrated Mechanic Technicians who are teaching participants about the job.
“Everyone here is a rock star,” said Aaron Koski, Senior Manager of Human Resources. “These interns have shown aptitude and grit. Thank you for your hard work.”
Participant Alexandria Balster said working alongside experienced technicians has made all the difference. “It was so overwhelming,” Balster said. “There’s so many components, processes, and pieces of equipment to not only learn but to troubleshoot.”
One of her sponsors, Mechanic Technician Carlos Garcia, encouraged Balster and is optimistic about her future. “I tell her to start simple because she’s not quite there,” he said. “But she will be.”
Learn more about the program at metrotransit.org/technician-program.