Many people who work at Metro Transit take on new responsibilities and roles throughout their careers. Career Tracks highlights the paths employees have taken to their latest assignment and where they see themselves going next. To learn more about career opportunities at Metro Transit and the Metropolitan Council, visit MetropolitanCouncil.org/employment.
How did you begin your career at Metro Transit?
In 2008, I emigrated to Minnesota from Togo and began working as a driver for Metro Mobility style minibuses for a contractor. After a while, I decided that I wanted to work for Metro Transit. While I wasn’t accepted the first time, I returned determined and earned a position as a bus operator in 2013.
What were your career goals and what steps did you take to achieve them?
In Togo, I was a high school teacher and a principal, so I enjoyed teaching. When I found out there were instructor positions at transit, I worked to earn a position teaching bus operators. I graduated from the Leadership Academy in 2015. Two years later I became an instructor. Today, I’m an assistant transportation manager where I continue to teach and guide operators.
What advice do you have for others who want to take on more or different responsibilities?
I came here not knowing English, but in time became fluent because I took the time and energy to accomplish that goal. Today, I’m an ATM at Metro Transit. Whatever your goal, be patient and take the steps you need to take. Remember to be humble and courageous. Make yourself available. If you do this, you can find yourself somewhere you can achieve your goals or even find yourself somewhere you never expected.