The original item was published from April 4, 2023 to April 3, 2023 1:42 PM
What attracted you to the transportation industry?
First when I got into it, I knew nothing about it. It sounded interesting. I started in finance, ended up with a position at the City of Albuquerque in the transit department. After a few months, it became more interesting. There is so many things about transit as a whole I never knew existed, and it’s just been fascinating.
What has been your greatest professional achievement?
Working hard to attain the position I’m in, sharing my knowledge with people coming into the industry and into finance, and training my staff.
How have women made a difference in the transportation industry?
Well, women make a difference in everything! Women see things differently than men do. I think women have brought a lot of good and fresh ideas to the industry. I also think sometimes we relate better to the public – they see us as more approachable.
What was the biggest influence in your selection of a career in transportation?
The challenge of learning a new career, and one that benefits numerous people.
What is your favorite aspect of your job?
Working with all the people.
What lessons have you been taught from the important women in your life that you have applied to your own life?
To work hard and be proud of what you do. And sometimes, don’t take no for an answer.
How have these lessons helped you succeed as a woman in transportation?
Taught me to truly work hard and have pride in what I do.
What natural talents do you possess that help in your chosen career?
I talk a lot! I know, a little unusual for finance people, but I’m very outgoing and really enjoy working with people.
What part of your career story would you like to share with the world?
You’ll be surprised what transportation really is all about.
How long have you been working for the company/organization? And what positions have to you held prior to your current one?
I’ve been with this organization 13 years. I started as the Senior Finance Manager and Grant Writer. I still do the grants and am now the Director of Finance and Administration.
How does what you do/what the organization does make a positive impact in the community?
The organization as a whole makes a very positive impact because we get people to where they want to go, whether that’s by our bus routes or on the Rail Runner. People don’t have to worry about the traffic or gas prices. I do believe we contribute greatly to the community.
What do you think is needed to further attract women to the transportation workforce?
The more visible transit in general becomes, I think that more women will become more interested in it. Once they see it’s not just a boring job, and it’s not just one job. You can drive a bus, you can learn to operate a train, you can work in finance; you can work in numerous places. There’s a lot of opportunities for women – you just have to look at it.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to enter this industry?
Try taking the train or riding a bus and see what it’s all about. Come in and meet some of the staff here at Rio Metro. Our Marketing Department is a wonderful group of people, and they are out all over the community, so the next time you see them, stop and talk to them and let them give you some information about the Transit District.
As told to Allyne Clarke, Marketing Manager, Rio Metro Regional Transit District.