Just two weeks after high school, Bill Beck started working at Metro Transit as a cleaner.

“My father worked here and suggested I apply,” Beck said. “He told me that there would always be transit and that it’s a steady, secure job.”

As Beck retires as a manager of bus maintenance 44 years later, he confirms his father’s advice. In the first few weeks at the old Nicollet Garage, however, he wasn’t so sure.

“I remember a moment thinking ‘what am I doing here?’” he said. “I found out this is a great place to work, and you’re given all the tools you need to succeed.”

Beck’s success came from learning on-the-job, which helped him move into different positions, from cleaner to fueler to skilled helper to mechanic. He advanced to management after gaining supervisory experience in the STEP program, the predecessor to the Leadership Academy.

“I’m proud to be the first mechanic to take part in that program,” Beck said. “It got me where I am today.”

In over four decades, Beck spent time at every garage except for the old North Side Garage. He also saw every new bus type and technology from AC and power steering to electric buses come to Metro Transit. Reminiscing about historical milestones reminds Beck how quickly time flies. 

“I used to tease the older guys at the garage, but now I’m the older guy!” Beck joked.

His 44 years were split evenly between roles in labor and management with 22 years apiece. He worked on various shifts, including overnights, to help keep transit running around the clock. For the latter part of his career, however, his day started at 5 a.m.

“I’ve always loved my job, no matter what,” he said. “I just hope that I leave this place better than I found it.”

In retirement, he plans to do more camping and biking at as many national parks as possible with his wife. And he looks forward to treating every day like a Saturday and sleeping in.