The Lane Transit District Board of Directors has selected Aurora “A.J.” Jackson as the agency’s sixth GM. Jackson — the current general manager of Montebello Bus Lines in Montebello, Calif. — started her career at Montebello as a bus operator working to pay her way through college.

Over the course of her career, Jackson was promoted to multiple positions in senior management, worked at the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, and returned to Montebello in 2008 to serve as general manager.

The board noted that Jackson’s impressive ascent through the rank and file into positions of progressive leadership at multiple agencies was a strong selling point. “It takes someone special to rise through the ranks from bus operator to general manager. A.J.’s tenacity, poise, leadership, and vision fit perfectly with the direction we want to go,” said LTD Board President Gary Wildish.

“The Board prioritized finding a general manager who could bring strong leadership, empathy, and a good listening ear to the district,” Wildish continued. “A.J. brings a zealous energy to get out in the community, identify ways we can improve, and a desire to strengthen relationships with our customers and partners.”

“I am excited to live, work, and serve the people here in Lane County,” said Jackson. “Lane County is renowned for being an active, thoughtful, and engaged community. I’m looking forward to rolling up my sleeves and working together to improve mobility options for our customers.”

Jackson said that she was drawn to the job, in part, by LTD’s reputation. “People in the transit community know that LTD is the gold standard for public transportation. LTD has a strong group of skilled and passionate professionals whose care for one another and the community sets them apart.”

Jackson will earn a base salary of $153,000. Her start date is November 30, 2015.