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Rider's Almanac Blog

On Off The Clock

On the Clock/Off the Clock: Tim Kizer, Transit Control Center Supervisor

Posted by Lindsey Geyer | Monday, December 27, 2021 9:37:00 PM

Transit Control Center Supervisor Tim Kizer in firefighter uniform next to wife and daughter

Lives: North Metro 

Years of Service: 7 

How did you come to work at Metro Transit and what do you do? 

Before coming to transit, I worked at Anoka County as a 911 dispatcher, spent five years in private security for different organizations including the Minnesota Vikings, and served six years in the Navy. I came to Metro Transit for the opportunities, and I’ve now been here seven years. As a Transit Control Center Supervisor, I supervise bus operators when they’re on the road and assist them with route information, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and getting police assistance when necessary. We also serve as a secondary public safety answering point (PSAP), taking in 911 calls related to Metro Transit; and dispatching officers from the Metro Transit Police Department 

What do you enjoy most about being On the Clock? 

My favorite part of the job is the variety. Somedays, I dispatch for the transit police and some days I work bus operations, and sometimes I do both in the same day. Dispatching and working with bus operators each require unique skills and can offer their own challenges. I also get to work with some amazing people who make this a great place to work. Everyone comes from different backgrounds and brings their own experiences with them. We have former police officers, current firefighters, 911 dispatchers, bus drivers, customer service and Transit Information Center representatives, and more. Everyone brings a unique skill set to the job and makes it a fun place to work.  

What do you do when you’re “Off the Clock”? 

Working as a firefighter. My uncle was a firefighter and I always looked up to him. I usually put in at least 30-40 hours a month at the fire department, sometimes more. As the training captain for our department, it’s my job to ensure our firefighters get the best training possible so they’re safe and state guidelines are met. I respond to calls such as lift assists medical emergencies, motor vehicle accidents, and of course fires. My wife serves with the fire department, so I love sharing that side of my life with her. My family is also big into camping and trail riding with our ATV. We try and get in at least 10 camping trips a year and a few more day trips to local trails. Our youngest daughter is on the dance team, so we spend a good majority of our winters going to her dance competitions.