Howard Freeman began his career as shop help in a private diesel shop, learning on the job and working his way up to mechanic. Today, he’s part of the team maintaining the METRO C Line’s battery-electric buses at the Heywood Garage.
“It’s a new skill set,” Howard said. “But I wanted to get in on the leading edge of bus technology.”
Electric buses bring more software, more electronics, and new challenges, all things Howard embraces.
“It’s cleaner work, less oil, fuel, and grime, and mentally engaging,” he said. “You’re solving problems that didn’t exist on diesel buses.”
He credits early support from supervisors and vendors for helping him adapt to the role.
“There was a lot of training early on,” Howard said. “The people who actually built the first electric buses were a huge help.”
Howard also values the shop’s collaborative atmosphere.
“You’re trusted to do your job,” he said. “And if you need help, people are always willing to lend a hand.”
That teamwork, along with long-term stability and strong union support, makes a big difference.
“The benefits here, you just don’t find them anywhere,” he said.
Howard encourages other mechanics to consider Metro Transit, even if it takes time to get the shift you want.
“A friend urged me to apply for years. Now that I’m on first shift, I just wish I’d done it sooner,” he said. “It’s a really good place to work.”
We’re hiring mechanics
Buses aren’t just diesel anymore. Expand your skills as a Metro Transit mechanic and learn how to maintain our growing electric bus fleet. More electric buses are planned to enter service on the METRO Gold Line later this month and 40-foot electrics planned for local routes in the future.