In 1974, one college presentation propelled Scott Thompson into a 47-year-long career. 

“Two MTC operations planners spoke to our geography class about restoring the transit system after Twin Cities Lines became MTC,” Thompson said. “Not long after, I changed my major to urban studies.” 

Soon after, he sought an internship at Metro Transit. As there wasn’t one available in service planning yet, he began where he could, in the Marketing Department. “I just wanted to get a foot in the door,” he said. 

Soon after, he reached his goal of becoming a transit planner. Along the way, he also worked in the Public Facilities department, which highlighted other places Thompson could have an impact. “There was a lot of opportunity to improve processes here,” Thompson said. 

He remembers riding buses to count people as part of research and working with physical maps. And, at one point, he recalls only about 25% of bus stops had signage. “Today, Metro Transit is doing everything faster, better, and smarter,” he said. 

Thompson helped launch many services, including the METRO Blue and Green lines and supporting bus services within 10 years of each other. Unlike these scheduled launches, however, not everything goes to plan. In 2020, Service Development implemented drastic service changes in weeks, instead of months. 

“It’s a challenge to put together efficient schedules and balance the needs of the ridership,” Thompson said. “I enjoy the challenge of complex problems.” 

What he’s most proud of is helping design a reliable system for people who need transit the most. In his early years, a call from a distressed customer who didn’t connect with a bus inspired him to work tirelessly to meet the needs of riders. 

“We offer an important service to our public,” Thompson said. “We help people get to their jobs, groceries, and the doctor’s office.” 

In retirement, Thompson plans to spend more quality time with his wife, kids, and grandkids at his vacation home up North and take a cruise around the Caribbean.