Job: Market Development Specialist
Years of service: 12 years
How did you come to work at Metro Transit and what do you do?
In 2011, I was laid off from a job at a private arts college. During my job hunt, I came across an opening in the Marketing Department at Metro Transit. Today, I'm a Market Development Specialist, which is like a project manager. Currently, I manage the marketing for all Bus Rapid Transit projects, Northstar Commuter Rail, Adopt-A-Stop program, Free Fare Route program, quarterly service changes, and any other customer facing projects.
What are your favorite activities when you're working or "On the Clock"?
As a project manager, I help keep projects organized, on time, and on budget. My favorite part, however, is making sure the needs of under-represented customers are heard when we are working on projects. Most of the projects I work on educate customers about upcoming services and navigating changes or new services in our system. I enjoy how my work involves looping in other departments including Customer Relations, Bus and Rail Operations, Transit Information Center, Commuter Programs, and Revenue.
What are your favorite activities when you're not working or "Off the Clock"?
You can often find me performing as Jarl Aæs, the leader of the Viking Encampment group. For 10 years and counting, we've educated others about history through stories, humor, and by example. Our home show is the Minnesota Renaissance Festival and this year, I'm celebrating my 40th year performing there. When I'm not performing, I volunteer as the group's Lead Director and fight choreographer. I also schedule appearances and negotiate contracts. When I'm not performing, I enjoy fishing, attending stage combat workshops, traveling to other countries (taking transit there, of course), and making new friends.