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Rider's Almanac Blog

Career Tracks

Career Tracks: Michael Jones, Maintenance Admin Assist.

Posted by John Komarek | Friday, June 4, 2021 8:14:00 AM

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 with Metro Transit?

I began my career with Metro Transit in the Customer Service Department. I’d had previous Customer Service experience when I worked in retail. Working in customer service for transit is very different than retail because you deal with helping people get to where they need to go, and on time. It was a challenging and rewarding experience, however, after almost 12 years of service, I wanted to see where else I could use my skills to good use in another capacity within the agency.

What were your career goals and what steps did you take to achieve them?

Wherever I am, I aspire to share my unique individual talents and be respected for them. After searching available job openings, I found an opening for a Maintenance Administrative Assistant for Bus Maintenance at the Overhaul Base in St. Paul. I earned the position and have been working here for a little over a year now. I’m happy in this new department and position, which have met my current career aspirations.

What advice do you have for others who want to take on more or different responsibilities?

As someone once said, “The only constant is change.” So, embrace it and don’t be afraid to take a chance on opportunities that may lie ahead in your career path. This position had many applicants, so I brushed up on my interview skills and worked hard to prepare myself. With much competition, I worked to earn the position, but knew it would be tough with so many other qualified applicants. Little did I know that I would be offered this position and here I am today. Applying for this job is one of the best decisions that I’ve made.