After working two jobs deejaying at a radio station and operating a bus for a decade, Demetairs Bell decided it was time to drop the microphone and focus on his Metro Transit career. 

With two children to support, he chose Metro Transit for job stability and the opportunity for advancement. After serving as an operator, he moved into roles as a relief instructor, acting Nicollet Garage coordinator and assistant manager of street operations. 

To advance in his career, Demetairs took as many Metro Transit management classes as he could and studied computer programming and applications on his own.   

nown as D-Bell, he retired in January 2026 with more than 33 years of service. “Outside of a couple of strikes, I have never not had a paycheck from the time I was 22 to 55,” Demetairs said. 

And what did he most appreciate about working for Metro Transit? “I would say witnessing an agency that walked a walk that they talked,” he said, noting this was especially true in the areas of diversity, strong leadership, and advancement opportunities.  

In retirement, Demetairs planned to work on a podcast about music, sports, and entertainment. He also looked forward to working with the Greater Twin Cities African American Hall of Fame recognizing past great athletes from the region.