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SEARCHThe Mineta Transportation Institute recently released several publications that explore important related issues and reveal new methods and pathways being developed and implemented to build the workforce pipeline.
The ongoing workforce crisis in transportation requires innovative solutions and strategic investments.
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A 2022 survey revealed that 96% of transit agencies of all sizes are experiencing workforce challenges, and 84% said these shortages are impacting their ability to provide service.
With that, the Mineta Transportation Institute (MTI) recently released several publications that explore important related issues and reveal new methods and pathways being developed and implemented to build the workforce pipeline, including:
3) "Transforming Middle School Workforce Development for 21st-Century Education."
“The Indirect Benefits of a Transit Apprenticeship and its Potential Value as a Flexible Postsecondary Pathway” explores a success story of the transit sector embracing apprenticeships as a worthwhile training model.
Specifically, the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority Joint Workforce Initiative (JWI) is a model of apprenticeships that emphasize both technical and soft skills, thus offering employees the chance to develop “cross-cutting competencies” and advance their careers.
The report details the importance of affordability, portability, and articulation and outlines how these features could be further developed in the JWI and how this initiative could be used as a model for further workforce development.
The next report, “L&D On-ramps and Off-ramps for the Mobility Workforce: A Blueprint for Knowledge Ecosystem Formation in the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” introduces and discusses the proof-of-concept pilot program proposed in a previous report, “Trade and Transportation Talent Pipeline Blueprints: Building University-Industry Talent Pipelines in Colleges of Continuing and Professional Education.”
It presents a blueprint with implementation tools and strategies for California State University Long Beach (CSULB) and other CSU campuses to adopt the presented knowledge ecosystem model in higher education.
The study found near universal support for pursuing university-industry partnerships with 97% of CSULB faculty and staff and external stakeholders supporting the concept, demonstrating a viable new model for workforce development.
Finally, “Transforming Middle School Workforce Development for 21st-Century Education” summarizes the 2024 program of the Garrett Morgan Sustainable Transportation Competition for middle school students, one of MTI’s signature workforce development initiatives.
MTI has sponsored a competition every year since 2003 and over 1,300 students have participated. This year’s program was a success, fostering meaningful connections and practical learning.
Plans for future programs with further resources, improvements, and components to increase competition are already underway for 2025.
The ongoing workforce crisis in transportation requires innovative solutions and strategic investments.
The reports and perspectives highlight several promising initiatives, from apprenticeships to university-industry partnerships and early-stage education programs, which are creating pathways to build a more diverse and resilient workforce.
The efforts offer valuable insights for addressing workforce shortages and equipping the next generation of professionals with the skills needed to meet the challenges of 21st century transportation.
The special episode features an exclusive interview with Mark Miller, president of Constellation Software Inc. and executive chairman of the Volaris Group, who reflects on the podcast's early vision and the importance of creating a platform where transit leaders can share ideas and learn from one another.
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The CAD facility enables NFI to complete full domestic production of heavy-duty transit vehicles, including zero-emission buses, in Winnipeg for the first time in 15 years.
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The findings provide clear evidence that sustained Federal investment in public transit and passenger rail delivers significant returns for workers, communities, taxpayers, and the U.S. economy, APTA officials said.
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On a recent episode of METROspectives, METRO Magazine’s Executive Editor Alex Roman sat down with Ana-Maria Tomlinson, Director of Strategic & Cross-Sector Programs at the CSA Group, to explore a bold initiative aimed at addressing those challenges: the development of a National Code for Transit and Passenger Rail Systems in Canada.
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The funding will ensure communities can expand transit options to meet increased demand for services around stadiums.
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John Obert previously served as regional sales manager for ENC since joining the company in June 2025.
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Over the next four years during the Spanberger Administration, DRPT will use the plan to prioritize funding for human service transportation projects and programs that reduce barriers, expand access, and promote equitable mobility, said department officials.
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A new advisory group of current and former city leaders will collaborate on funding strategies, technology deployment, and best practices to modernize U.S. public transit systems.
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The LIT Navigate Mentorship Program was launched as a structured, low-cost opportunity for active LIT members, focused on intentional growth, workforce development, mentorship, networking, and education.
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Approved as part of WMATA’s Strategic Transformation Plan, the expanded program introduces new pricing and participation options that make it easier for colleges and universities to join and for more students, such as part-time, community college, and graduate students, to benefit from accessible transportation.
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