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. Learn more about opportunities across all departments metrotransit.org/careers.
How did you begin your career with Metro Transit?
My career in transportation started at BNSF as an apprentice trailer mechanic. Over 25 years in freight railroad service, I worked as a carman and held several management positions, moving to different car and locomotive shops around the country. I came here in 2019 as manager of rail quality assurance and training and after a temporary assignment in vehicle maintenance became the director of rail systems maintenance when my predecessor retired.
What advice would you give people thinking about switching from heavy rail to light rail?
Talk with someone here about the benefits and opportunities provided by Metro Transit. To prepare for the Green Line Extension’s 2027 opening, we are actively hiring about 50 people in signals, communications, track and traction power. Our positions for track maintainers, signal maintainers and communications techs would be almost the exact same roles as those positions in freight rail.
Why did you make the switch?
After moving around a lot, it was time to settle down. I chose Minnesota, and as I was looking for jobs, I came across Metro Transit. The opportunities, benefits, ability to settle down in one location, and job security were all attractive to me. There is a real benefit to being home every night and having a good work-life balance. My goal has always been to make a difference and help other people, and having the chance to mentor people and serve the community has been another great benefit of coming here.
What advice do you have for others who want to take on more or different responsibilities?
Don’t be afraid. Be comfortable being uncomfortable. Sometimes you have to take a leap. I’ve taken on several roles that were lateral positions, and they allowed me to gain a lot of experience in other departments and see other points of view. The biggest risk I took was leaving the railroad and starting a new career, and it’s really paid off for me.