1-855-888-NTWC (6892)
twc@transportcenter.org
The COVID crisis has put a spotlight on the concentration of Black, Latina, and Afro-Latina women in low-wage jobs, including in many essential healthcare and retail jobs. The skilled construction trades have given many women an alternative to the poorly paid jobs in the service sector that many had to turn to before finding the trades. The skilled construction trades provide opportunities to build careers that are both challenging and fulfilling, pay a family sustaining wage with benefits, and can be accessed through ‘learn as you earn’ apprenticeships. This brief discusses the experiences of early career Black, Latina, and Afro Latina women in the trades.
RESOURCE TYPE
TWC’s Transit Workforce Data Dashboard
Launched in March, 2023, the Transit Workforce Data Dashboard presents quantitative, descriptive data about the composition of the transit workforce and trends in transit employment using a series of charts and graphics. This information is relevant for industry discussions in a range of contexts, including: strategic workforce planning in recruitment, retention, and other areas; examining and addressing opportunities and challenges related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and access; and identifying training and funding needs.
Transit Workforce Center
March 2023
Transit Workforce Shortage: Synthesis Report and Toolkit
The Transit Workforce Shortage Study builds a framework for APTA, its members, and its partner organizations to better understand the workforce shortage’s causes and provides best practices for recruiting, hiring, and retaining transit operations workers.
APTA’s Transit Workforce Shortage Study combines information from a survey of public transit workers and interviews with public transportation agencies to provide insight into ways to address the national shortage of transit workers. The report provides information on actions agencies have taken to address the workforce shortage, and the toolkit provides step-by-step answers to workforce shortage scenarios agencies are facing every day.
American Public Transportation Association (APTA)
March 2023
TOPICS: Hiring and Recruitment
Bus Operator Workforce Management: Practitioner’s Guide
This practitioner’s guide provides recommendations and resources enabling transit agencies to better assess, plan, and implement their operator workforce management programs.
Eno Center for Transportation, International Transportation Learning Center (ITLC), Huber & Associates
January 2023
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Apprenticeship Building America: Mentoring Guide
Mentoring is a key staple of a successful apprenticeship program. This guide provides an overview of the qualities of a good mentor, the activities a mentor undertakes, tips for mentoring youth apprentices, and more.
U.S. Dept of Labor, Apprenticeship Building America Grant Program
December 2022
TOPICS: Apprenticeship , Trainer and Mentor Development
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Expanding Apprenticeship: Return on Investment (ROI)
This is the landing page for Apprenticeship ROI resources on the WorkforceGPS website (sponsored by the Employment and Training Administration of the US Department of Labor). It is updated periodically and includes recent publications released as part of the evaluation of the American Apprenticeship Initiative. These resources attest to the value of apprenticeship programs for organizations and for workers.
WorkforceGPS
November 2022
TOPICS: Apprenticeship , Program Evaluation and ROI
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Women in the Workplace 2022 & WTS Summary and Analysis
Women in the Workplace is the largest study on the state of women in corporate America. In 2015, LeanIn.Org and McKinsey & Company launched the study to give companies insights and tools to advance gender diversity in the workplace. The full report is linked below.
An analysis from WTS International outlining the report’s implications for the transportation workforce is also attached.
LeanIn.Org and McKinsey & Company; WTS International
October 2022
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Transit Workforce Shortage: Root Causes, Potential Solutions, and the Road Ahead
Public transit providers across North America face a shortage of operators and mechanics during a period of economic instability and reshuffling exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, agencies’ ability to respond to the worker shortage has been hampered by inadequate information about its causes and effects. The Transit Workforce Shortage Study builds a framework for APTA, its members, and its partner organizations to better understand the workforce shortage’s causes and provides best practices for recruiting, hiring, and retaining transit operations workers. The study is comprised of two phases. This document, the Interim Findings Report, synthesizes the findings from Phase 1, which included a survey of transit agencies and background research into the macro causes of the shortage.
American Public Transportation Association (APTA)
October 2022
TOPICS: Hiring and Recruitment
Wire Women: Lighting it Up
This illustrated publication tells the stories of women who are undertaking apprenticeship to become union electricians. This resource could be used by transit agencies, unions, or apprenticeship programs as promotional material or for educational purposes.
Sharon Szymanski
September 2022
Advancing Racial Equity through Federally Funded Public Transit, Bicycle, and Pedestrian Projects
This report provides data sources and tool to quantify racial equity and environmental justice in transportation-related projects. It also describes how the data can be used to speak to the equity priorities of grants available through the Infrastructure and Investment Jobs Act.
Urban Institute
September 2022
TOPICS: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Program Design Framework for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility in Registered Apprenticeship
This framework offers employers and Registered Apprenticeship sponsors field-informed program design elements and considerations for building systems, processes, partnerships, and practices that can drive diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in Registered Apprenticeship programs.
Center for Apprenticeship & Work-Based Learning, Jobs for the Future
September 2022
Bus Operators in Crisis
TransitCenter’s report, entitled Bus Operators in Crisis: The Steady Deterioration of One of Transit’s Most Essential Jobs, and How Agencies Can Turn Things Around, analyzes the nationwide phenomenon of bus operator shortages and advocates for enhanced job quality in the occupation.
This resource includes links to the report as well as to a webinar from July, 2022.
TransitCenter
July 2022
National Transit Frontline Worker Recruitment Campaign
Across the United States, whether large, small, urban, rural, or tribal, transit agencies are facing the challenge of recruiting and retaining drivers, mechanics, and technicians who can operate and maintain the buses of our public transit systems. To help support local transit efforts, TWC is developing the #ConnectingMyCommunity national frontline worker recruitment campaign, coordinated with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and industry, labor, and community partners from around the country.
Transit Workforce Center
July 2022
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Higher Education Practices to Prepare Future Transportation Professionals Regarding Disability, Accessibility, and Mobility Management
This NCMM Information Brief, Higher Education Practices to Prepare Future Transportation Professionals Regarding Disability, Accessibility, and Mobility Management provides the results of a NCMM study regarding content in higher education preparation programs and offers recommendations regarding how to integrate disability-related content in preparation programs. The brief also includes recommendations regarding the recruitment and retention of individuals with disabilities into the transportation industry.
Please click the link below to view NCMM’s Mobility Management in Practice Series; this report is one of several 2022 publications listed.
National Center for Mobility Management (NCMM)
April 2022
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
A Guide to Starting or Joining a Registered Apprenticeship Program
This publication provides an overview of registered apprenticeship, the benefits of registered apprenticeships to the employer, and the basic steps to get started.
You can also consult with your state office on registered apprenticeship for technical assistance and support for questions on the apprenticeship model, guidance on each phase of developing a program, connections to training providers, and advice on available funding sources to support apprenticeships: https://www.apprenticeship.gov/about-us/state-offices
Intelligent Partnerships
April 2022
Policy Brief: Workforce Shortages Impacting Public Transportation Recovery
This recent report summarizes results from a survey APTA conducted with transit agencies in early 2022. The majority of responding agencies reported difficulties with hiring, with bus operator recruitment being the biggest challenge.
American Public Transportation Association
March 2022
TOPICS: Hiring and Recruitment
FTA Standards Development Program: Rail Transit Roadway Worker Protection (Report 0212)
This report contains research that reviewed existing standards and best practices and develops use cases, a risk assessment matrix, and high-level concepts of operations (CONOPS) for Rail Transit RWP.
Federal Transit Administration
February 2022
TOPICS: Safety and Health
Improving Diversity and Inclusion Programs in Public Transportation
This webinar provides an overview of current diversity and inclusion efforts utilized by large, medium, and small public transportation agencies in the United States. Presenters highlight how agencies embed equity in operations and discuss policies that impact employees, local businesses, and community members. They also discuss a diversity and inclusion toolkit, which can be adapted to fit the contexts of any transit agency. At the end of this webinar, you will able to:
-Identify how to develop benchmarks to measure diversity, equity, and inclusion
-Determine methods for transit agencies to improve equity
The webinar features research from TCRP Research Report 228: Resource Guide for Improving Diversity and Inclusion Programs for the Public Transportation Industry.
Transportation Research Board (TRB)
February 2022
TOPICS: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Providing Training for Zero Emission Buses: Recommended Expanded RFP Language
This document includes recommended language for agencies to build robust training procurement into their ZEB Request for Proposals. It is intended to be used as a starting point for agencies to tailor their training procurement to suit their specific needs.
International Transportation Learning Center & Jobs to Move America
February 2022
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
FTA Annual Report on Technical Assistance and Workforce Development for FY 2021 (Report 0209)
This statutorily required annual report provides information on FTA’s Technical Assistance and Workforce Development Program (49 U.S.C. § 5314). It provides information on technical assistance, workforce development, standards, human resources, and training projects active in FY 2021. The report also includes information on FTA’s process for making upcoming allocations for FY 2022.
Federal Transit Administration
January 2022
TOPICS: General Workforce Development
Zero Emission Transit Bus Technology Analysis Volume 2
This report, Volume 2, is the second edition of the Zero Emission Transit Bus Technology Analysis (ZETBTA) which includes results from the fuel-cell electric bus (FCEB), battery electric bus (BEB), diesel hybrid bus, and conventional diesel bus technologies control fleet. It integrates lessons learned and best practices gleaned from AC Transit’s extensive experience in deploying ZEB technologies, including developing innovative workforce training programs, data integration and management, and transit deployment viability.
AC Transit
December 2021
TOPICS: Procurement , Training and Development , Zero Emission Buses
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Managing the Labor Shortage at Transit Agencies
This article examines labor shortages in the public transit industry. It focuses on the following points:
- Transit agencies across the United States are experiencing a significant shortage in labor, that the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened. This shortage is negatively impacting the services they provide to the public.
- Employees at transit agencies have a significantly higher median age than employees in other industries.
- Transit agencies should use data and information to consider recruiting and retaining employees for the long term.
Shared-Use Mobility Center
November 2021
TOPICS: Career Pathways , Hiring and Recruitment
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Identifying Current and Future Training Needs of the Public Transportation Industry (Report 0191)
This report documents a study commissioned by the National Transit Institute (NTI) as part of its work to address training needs. The study investigated skills gaps among the workforce of the U.S. public transportation industry, identified strategies to address those gaps, and explored approaches to more successfully recruit and retain the full spectrum of the transit workforce, from frontline to technical to professional staff.
Federal Transit Administration & National Transit Institute
June 2021
Wayside Worker Protection Technology—TrackSafe Phase II Research & Demonstration (Report 0194)
This report outlines research and demonstration of a roadway worker protection (RWP) warning technology developed by Bombardier Rail called TrackSafe. The system was installed at the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) and was designed to reduce the hazards of working within a transit rail right-of-way (ROW).
Federal Transit Administration
May 2021
TOPICS: Safety and Health
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
FTA Annual Report on Technical Assistance and Workforce Development for FY 2020 (Report 0180)
This statutorily required annual report provides information on FTA’s Technical Assistance and Workforce Development Program (49 U.S.C. § 5314). It provides information on technical assistance, workforce development, standards, human resources, and training projects active in FY 2020. The report also includes information on FTA’s process for making upcoming allocations for FY 2021.
Federal Transit Administration
May 2021
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Inclusive Apprenticeship: A Summary of What We Know about Apprentices with Disabilities
This report summarizes current information on experiences of people with disabilities in apprenticeship, drawing on the research literature, interviews with experts on inclusive apprenticeship, and administrative and survey data. This report’s goal is to synthesize information about inclusive apprenticeship and provide insights about best practices to deepen both researchers’ and practitioners’ understanding.
Urban Institute
May 2021
Electrifying Transit: A Guidebook for Implementing Battery Electric Buses
To assist stakeholders with interest in deploying BEBs, this guidebook describes the decisions and considerations required for successful BEB implementation.
United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and National Renewable Energy Laboratory
April 2021
TOPICS: Procurement , Safety and Health , Zero Emission Buses
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
The President’s National Advisory Council Workforce and Talent Management Study
An in-depth examination of the U.S workforce development system. The Education/Career Readiness Continuum graphic on page 11 of the report has particular applicability as agencies consider comprehensive workforce development plans.
National Infrastructure Advisory Council
March 2021
APTA Transit Workforce Readiness Guide
APTA’s Transit Workforce Readiness Guide is a highly interactive and easy-to-use online resource for executives and their staff to assist organizations in building a more diverse talent pipeline by attracting high school students, especially those coming from underserved communities, into entry-level transit positions.
American Public Transportation Association (APTA)
March 2021
Here to Stay: Black, Latina, and Afro-Latina Women in Construction Trades Apprenticeships and Employment
Chicago Women in the Trades & Institute for Women's Policy Research
March 2021
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
TCRP Research Report 228: Resource Guide for Improving Diversity and Inclusion Programs for the Public Transportation Industry
Examines industry diversity programs, including how inclusion has been incorporated, and what policies, plans, and practices have been successfully implemented.
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP)
January 2021
TCRP Research Report 225: A Pandemic Playbook for Transportation Agencies
TRB’s National Cooperative Highway Research Program and Transit Cooperative Research Program have jointly issued NCHRP Research Report 963/TCRP Research Report 225: A Pandemic Playbook for Transportation Agencies, which was created to improve transportation agency responses to a pandemic.
The Playbook concentrates on what needs to be done, when and by whom. It briefly addresses planning for a pandemic, a topic addressed in greater depth in NCHRP Report 769: A Guide for Public Transportation Pandemic Planning and Response. It summarizes effective practices currently used by transportation agencies based on interviews with state departments of transportation and transit agency leaders and operational personnel, supplemented with national and international research results.
The Playbook contains several sections focused on the transit workforce, including Chapter 4, “Challenges,” and the “Employee Impact” section of Chapter 5.
National Cooperative Highway Research Program and Transit Cooperative Research Program
January 2021
TOPICS: Safety and Health , Training and Development
Mountain Line Zero-Emission Bus Implementation Plan
The Northern Arizona intergovernmental Public Transportation Authority (referred to as Mountain Line) contracted with the Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE) to develop a Zero-Emission Bus (ZEB) Transition Plan to identify a zero-emission roadmap for full-scale deployment.
Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE) and AECOM
December 2020
MTS Zero-Emission Bus Fleet Transition Study
The Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) engaged the Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE) to perform a zero-emission bus (ZEB) transition study in March 2018. The study’s goal is to create a plan for a 100% zero-emission fleet by 2040 to be in compliance with the Innovative Clean Transit (ICT) regulation enacted by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). The results of the study will be used to inform MTS Board members and educate MTS staff of estimated costs, benefits, constraints, and risks to guide future planning and decision making.
Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE), AECOM, & the Fiedler Group
September 2020
TOPICS: Safety and Health , Zero Emission Buses
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
FTA Annual Report on Technical Assistance and Workforce Development for FY 2019 (Report 0168)
This statutorily required annual report provides information on FTA’s Technical Assistance and Workforce Development Program (49 U.S.C. § 5314). This annual report provides information on any technical assistance, workforce development, standards, human resources, and training projects active in Fiscal Year (FY) 2019.
Federal Transit Administration
July 2020
Bus Maintenance and Bus Testing Program Peer-to-Peer Exchange (Report 0160)
This report presents a summary of the bus maintenance worker training peer exchange, hosted by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). Significant shifts in the types of transit buses being procured (e.g., from traditional buses to alternative fuel/low- and no-emission buses) require new and different types of frontline worker training. Through the peer exchange, stakeholders, including industry representatives, shared knowledge about bus maintenance worker training and discussed best practices for developing the next generation of highly-skilled bus technicians.
Federal Transit Administration
May 2020
TOPICS: Procurement , Training and Development , Zero Emission Buses
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Advancing Frontline Workforce Development Meeting: Synthesis
This report synthesizes findings from a two-day gathering of more than two dozen transit industry labor and management representatives who engaged in in-depth discussions on frontline workforce training needs across the U.S. The purpose of the meeting was to identify immediate, short-term, and long-term training needs for the frontline public transportation workforce in the U.S. and ways to connect apprenticeship and formal training programs to support these needs.
National Transit Institute and Federal Transit Administration
February 2020
Innovative Transit Workforce Development Projects of 2015: Summative Evaluation (Report-0153)
This report provides the results of an evaluation of Innovative Transit Workforce Development Program projects awarded in Fiscal Year 2015. Based on a competitive application process, FTA awarded 16 workforce development projects to transit authorities, higher education institutions, Native American tribes, and nonprofit organizations individually or as a consortium.
Federal Transit Administration
February 2020
TCRP Synthesis 147: Attracting, Retaining, and Advancing Women in Transit
Explores the strategies that have been deployed in transit and other related industries in order to attract, retain, and advance women in a variety of roles.
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP)
January 2020
Apprenticeship is a Win-Win for Workers and Employers
Two case studies of apprenticeship programs highlight different approaches to this tried and true workforce model.
National Fund for Workforce Solutions
December 2019
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Building a Business Case for Increasing Diversity in the Transportation Workforce
This TR News article describes the importance of cultivating diversity in the transportation industry. It describes the current and future state of diversity in the country and workforce at large, and reviews existing research on the workplace benefits of diversity. It also provides several strategies for fostering diversity in the transportation industry and examples of transit stakeholders that have used those strategies.
Stephanie Ivey, Meredith Powers, and Adriana Clark
October 2019
TOPICS: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Innovative Transit Workforce Development Program: Key Lessons Learned (Report 0139)
This report summarizes the impacts and lessons learned of individual project models, identifies transit workforce needs, and develops recommendations for the continuation or improvement of FTA’s workforce development efforts and investments.
Federal Transit Administration
September 2019
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Attracting and Retaining Women in the Transportation Industry
Examines recruitment and retention strategies and emphasizes importance of community-orientation and mentoring.
Mineta Transportation Institute
February 2019
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
FTA Annual Report on Technical Assistance and Workforce Development for FY 2018 (Report 0132)
This annual report to Congress provides information on Fiscal Year 2018 technical assistance, standards, human resources and training projects to improve public transportation as authorized by federal public transportation law (49 U.S.C. § 5314). The report also includes information on FTA’s process for making allocations for FY 2019.
Federal Transit Administration
February 2019
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Innovative Transit Workforce Development Projects of 2012: Summative Evaluation (Report 0128)
This report provides the results of the Innovative Transit Workforce Development Program Evaluation of projects awarded in Fiscal Year 2012. FTA awarded a total of $7,048,898 for 16 workforce development projects. Recipients included transit authorities, higher education institutions, Native American tribes, and nonprofit organizations.
Federal Transit Administration
February 2019
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
ATU Setting the Standard for Transit Apprenticeships
This article summarizes ATU’s and the International Transportation Learning Center’s (ITLC’s) efforts to promote transportation mentorship and apprenticeship program development.
Amalgamated Transit Union
September 2018
Equity from the Frontline: Workers’ Insight and Leadership Supports a Network of Apprenticeships in Transit
Equity in Apprenticeship is a report series from COWS at UW-Madison. It highlights programs that use apprenticeship and mentorship to extend occupational opportunity to historically marginalized groups, especially people of color and women. In California, the Joint Workforce Investment in the South Bay Valley Transportation Authority has developed a web of apprenticeships and advancement opportunities.
COWS at University of Wisconsin
August 2018
Bus Maintenance Apprenticeship Framework
The Bus Maintenance Apprenticeship Framework was developed by the National Bus Maintenance Apprenticeship Committee and approved by the U.S. DOL. It is a competency based framework that includes all of the tasks an apprentice should be able to demonstrate as a result of the training. Tasks are based on the ASE task list and APTA training standards. It is only a guide, locations can add or remove tasks to suit their individual operations.
International Transportation Learning Center & The Urban Institute
January 2018
TCRP Research Report 199: Transit Technical Training (Volumes 1 & 2)
TCRP Research Report 199: Transit Technical Training is a two-volume set that presents guidance on technical training programs and the implementation of those for transportation agencies.
The report’s first volume, Guide to Applying Best Practices and Sharing Resources, documents the best models of technical training programs serving U.S. and international transportation agencies and related industries.
The second volume, Guide to Overcoming Barriers to Implementing Best and Innovative Training, provides public transportation agencies with best practices, strategies, and resources to assist with the implementation of effective and innovative training programs and techniques for frontline employees.
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP)
January 2018
TOPICS: Apprenticeship , Safety and Health , Training and Development
TCRP Research Report 194: Knowledge Management Resource to Support Strategic Workforce Development for Transit Agencies
TRB’s Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) Research Report 194: Knowledge Management Resource to Support Strategic Workforce Development for Transit Agencies explores the importance of knowledge management (KM), which is an organization’s process for collecting, storing, and sharing organizational information and knowledge, and provides guidance on implementing KM strategies in transit agencies. In addition, the guidance includes action plans for developing particular aspects of KM, analysis of KM strategies at several transit agencies, and a catalog of KM technology tools and resources.
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP)
January 2018
Transit Coach Operator Competency-Based Framework
Full Competency-Based Occupational Framework for Registered Apprenticeship for Transit Coach Operator/Bus Operators.
The Urban Institute and International Transportation Learning Center
August 2017
TCRP Synthesis 126: Successful Practices and Training Initiatives to Reduce Accidents and Incidents at Transit Agencies
TRB’s Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) Synthesis 126: Successful Practices and Training Initiatives to Reduce Accidents and Incidents at Transit Agencies documents current practices and training initiatives, including bus operator training and retraining programs that have been effective in reducing accidents and incidents at transit agencies. The study also focuses on other system approaches that have been implemented to address safety hazards. These approaches include various technology applications, infrastructure modifications, and programs and initiatives such as driver incentive programs and close call/near miss reporting.
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP)
January 2017
TOPICS: Safety and Health , Training and Development
RESOURCE TYPE: Briefings , Case Studies , Publications | TRANSIT MODE: Rail - Commuter , Rail - Light, Heavy
The Transit Elevator-Escalator Training Consortium: A Model for Successful Training Development
A report on the process, products and outcomes related to the first National consortium for development of training for public transportation maintenance employees. This joint labor-management effort set a proven model for multiple other similar consortia. Products include – instruction ready courseware, a nationally recognized apprenticeship program for transit maintenance elevator/escalator maintainers and train-the-trainer program.
International Transportation Learning Center
September 2016
TCRP Report 184: Maintenance Technician Staffing Levels for Modern Public Transit Fleets
This report identifies existing tools and practices used to determine optimum maintenance technician staffing levels. The report also provides an analysis of variables that influence maintenance technician staffing needs.
A Microsoft Excel calculator is also available, along with a user guide and case study.
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP)
August 2016
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Innovative Transit Workforce Development Projects of 2011 Report (0094)
This report provides the results of the Innovative Transit Workforce Program Evaluation of projects awarded in fiscal year 2011. The evaluation was conducted via review of updates and final report submitted by grantees and telephone interviews with grantees.
Federal Transit Administration
April 2016
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: Bus - Fixed Route
TCRP Synthesis 120: Use of Automotive Service Excellence Tests Within Transit
TRB’s Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) Synthesis 120: Use of Automotive Service Excellence Tests Within Transit documents how the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) program is accepted and used within the transit bus maintenance community. The ASE program is nationally recognized as the standard industry credential provider for automotive professionals. The report explores how a cross section of transit bus maintenance personnel view the ASE certification program and summarizes their perspectives to improve ASE certification acceptance and participation.
Other ASE-related resources can be found by using the Resource Center’s search function.
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP)
January 2016
TOPICS: Safety and Health , Training and Development
A Guide for the Development of Career Pathways in Transportation
This Guide outlines the steps that transportation industry stakeholders can take to develop or expand Career Pathways to focus on the skills, competencies, and credentials needed for high-demand jobs in the transportation industry and its subsectors.
U.S. Department of Education (OCTAE), Jobs for the Future, International Transportation Learning Center
December 2015
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Strengthening Skills Training and Career Pathways Across the Transportation Industry
STRENGTHENING SKILLS TRAINING AND CAREER PATHWAYS ACROSS THE TRANSPORTATION INDUSTRY: Data Report on Future Transportation Workforce Needs.
The collection and analysis of employment and skills data highlights the future growth areas and employment “hot spots” in transportation by industry subsectors, occupations, career areas, and geographic areas. It also emphasizes the need for skills training and career pathways across the transportation industry. The report identifies high-demand jobs with good wages, and analyzes the patterns in the education and work experience required for entry, as well as on-the-job training required for new entrants to gain full competency.
U.S. Department of Education, Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education
August 2015
TOPICS: Apprenticeship , Career Pathways , Hiring and Recruitment
Preventing and Mitigating Transit Worker Assaults in the Bus and Rail Transit Industry
On October 28th and 29th, 2014, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Administrator tasked the Transit Advisory Committee for Safety (TRACS) with developing recommendations for FTA on the elements that should comprise a Safety Management System (SMS) approach to preventing and mitigating transit worker assaults. Representatives from state and local transportation agencies, labor unions, research organizations, and national transportation associations worked together to create recommendations for FTA to prevent assaults against transit workers. These recommendations address each aspect of the SMS approach, including policy, risk management, safety promotion, and safety assurance.
Transit Advisory Committee for Safety (TRACS)
July 2015
TOPICS: Retention , Safety and Health
TCRP Report 181: Labor–Management Partnerships for Public Transportation, Volume 1: Toolkit
This toolkit provides resources for public transportation management and labor union leaders to establish, manage, and improve labor–management partnerships.
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP)
January 2015
TCRP Report 178: A National Training and Certification Program for Transit Vehicle Maintenance Instructors
TRB’s Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) Report 178: A National Training and Certification Program for Transit Vehicle Maintenance Instructors provides a proposed national program structure and plan for training and certifying transit bus and rail maintenance instructors. The report also provides best practices used in the public and private sectors to prepare and certify technical instructors, as well as the attributes and instructional delivery methods found most effective for maintenance instructors.
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP)
January 2015
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
TCRP Report 181: Labor–Management Partnerships for Public Transportation, Volume 2: Final Report
TRB’s Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) Report 181: Labor–Management Partnerships for Public Transportation, Volume 2: Final Report, documents the materials used to develop Volume 1: Toolkit. Volume 1 provides resources for public transportation management and labor union leaders to establish, manage, and improve labor–management partnerships.
The toolkit (Volume 1) can be found on the TWC Resource Center as a separate entry, or by following the link below.
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP)
January 2015
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications , Training Materials , Training Programs | TRANSIT MODE: Rail - Commuter , Rail - Light, Heavy
TCRP Report 170: Establishing a National Transit Industry Rail Vehicle Technician Qualification Program—Building for Success
TRB’s Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) Report 170: Establishing a National Transit Industry Rail Vehicle Technician Qualification Program—Building for Success describes a system of qualification that has been developed for rail vehicle technicians. This qualification system is available for implementation through the Transportation Learning Center.
The program integrates national training standards, progressive classroom curricula and introductory courseware, on-the-job learning modules, an apprenticeship framework that combines well-designed sequences of learning, mentoring to support learners, and coordination of classroom and on-the-job learning. The qualification system also includes written and hands-on certification assessments to confirm that technicians have the practical knowledge and skills required to perform their jobs at the highest level of expertise.
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) & International Transportation Learning Center
January 2014
Pathways to Equity: Effective Transportation Career Partnerships
Expanding access to quality careers in transit systems and in transit capital construction has been the focus of innovative local programs around the country in recent years. This report presents case profiles of two of the most promising examples – one for youth Career Pathways into transit industry careers, and one for targeted construction hiring and training of disadvantaged workers for transit capital projects. This report focuses on two local case profiles for transit Career Pathways: a Project Labor Agreement in Los Angeles providing expanded access to jobs and training for public transportation capital construction, and a youth Career Pathways partnership in Philadelphia linking career and technical education with future transit careers. Both of these models, if taken to scale in the transit industry, can have positive impacts, locally and nationally, for improving access to family-sustaining careers and training and for improving educational outcomes for disadvantaged groups – urban low-income and minority groups as well as women – who have previously been under-represented in these occupations.
International Transportation Learning Center
December 2013
Promoting Employment in Transit Construction Projects by Members of Minority and Low Income Communities (Report 0080)
This report summarizes research investigating the participation of members of low-income and minority populations in employment generated by transit projects and identifies practices to increase their participation. It features four in-depth case studies of light rail projects.
Federal Transit Administration
July 2013
RESOURCE TYPE: Briefings , Publications , Standards | TRANSIT MODE: Rail - Commuter , Rail - Light, Heavy
TCRP Synthesis 107: Rail Transit Track Inspection Practices
TRBs Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) Synthesis 107: TCRP Synthesis 107, Rail Transit Track Inspection Practices offers information across a range of older and newer U.S. rail transit agencies on track inspection practices and policies.
Issues addressed in the report include agency staffing, agency organization and characteristics, track inspection program criteria, training and certification, procurement, and track safety practices.
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP)
January 2013
TOPICS: Procurement , Safety and Health , Training and Development
TCRP Report 162: Building a Sustainable Workforce in the Public Transportation Industry—A Systems Approach
TRB’s Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) Report 162: Building a Sustainable Workforce in the Public Transportation Industry—A Systems Approach provides a guidebook that addresses contemporary issues in workforce development, retention, and attraction, and public transportation image management.
The guidebook provides practical tools to transit agencies on a variety of workforce issues including workforce strategies that enhance organizational processes, performance metrics to evaluate the impact of workforce strategies, image management techniques that improve perceptions of the public transportation industry, and benchmarking processes that allow for continuous organizational improvement.
The guidebook is separated into modules that may be used independently or together in the form of the fully integrated guidebook.
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP)
January 2013
TOPICS: Hiring and Recruitment , Retention , Training and Development
RESOURCE TYPE: Briefings , Publications , Standards | TRANSIT MODE: Rail - Commuter , Rail - Light, Heavy
TCRP Synthesis 95: Practices for Wayside Rail Transit Worker Protection
TRB’s Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) Synthesis 95: Practices for Wayside Rail Transit Worker Protection is designed to highlight knowledge, practice, lessons learned, and gaps in information related to wayside rail transit worker protection programs.
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP)
January 2012
TOPICS: Safety and Health , Training and Development
Method and Processes for Transit Training Metrics and Return on Investment
This guidebook was developed by the ITLC to help transit agencies determine benefits and return on investment (ROI) stemming from their training programs.
International Transportation Learning Center
September 2011
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Dialogue for Women in Blue-Collar Transportation Careers
Short summary report on unique challenges and recommendations regarding women in blue-collar positions in transportation.
US Dept. of Transportation
September 2011
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: Bus - Fixed Route
TCRP Synthesis 93: Practices to Protect Bus Operators from Passenger Assault: A Synthesis of Transit Practice
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) Synthesis 93: Practices to Protect Bus Operators from Passenger Assault highlights practices and policies implemented by transit agencies to deter and mitigate assaults on bus operators.
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP)
January 2011
TOPICS: Retention , Safety and Health
National Guidelines for Apprenticeship Standards for Bus Maintenance Technicians
These National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (NJATC) Apprenticeship Standards have as their objective the training of Bus Maintenance Technicians skilled in all phases of bus maintenance. The NJATC and its affiliated Local Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committees recognize that in order to accomplish this, there must be well-developed on-the-job learning combined with related instruction. This recognition has resulted in the development of these Apprenticeship Standards.
Developed by the Transportation Learning Center and National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (NJATC) in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Apprenticeship.
Approved and certified by the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Apprenticeship on 8/25/2010.
International Transportation Learning Center & National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (NJATC)
August 2010
TOPICS: Apprenticeship , Labor-Management Partnerships
Rail Vehicles Maintenance Training Standards
In response to the transit industry’s need for rail vehicles maintenance training, the Transportation Learning Center partnered with APTA, transit agencies and unions representing transit workers to develop these joint labor-management training guidelines and recommended training practices.
The curriculum, courseware and training guidelines adopted by the group and contained in this Recommended Practice are designed to meet or exceed the licensing requirements of jurisdictions, which currently or in the future, may legislate professional licensure or certification for rail vehicle technicians.
American Public Transportation Association (APTA) & International Transportation Learning Center
June 2010
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Learning by Doing: Hands-On Training for Transportation Technicians
Today, formal training is absolutely essential to produce technicians capable of providing safe, efficient and cost-effective transport services. The consequences of jeopardizing passenger and public safety are just too great to turn inexperienced workers loose on advanced transit vehicles without proper training, hoping they will learn “as they go.” The question becomes how best to construct an effective training program. This paper, from the International Transportation Learning Center, examines the subject of technical training and advocates “learning by doing” as an essential element to acquiring needed technical knowledge and skills. It stands to reason that someone attracted to becoming a technician is interested in working with their hands. Training, therefore, should make use of that natural inclination and engage students in hands-on activities throughout the entire learning process.
International Transportation Learning Center
April 2010
TOPICS: Apprenticeship , Training and Development
Transit Partnership Training: Metrics of Success
The Metrics of Success series chronicles measurable outcomes, in particular return on investment, of transit training partnerships in which the International Transportation Learning Center has had a substantial role. Each Metrics report focuses on quantitative data from a specific partnership, while Transit Partnership Training: Metrics of Success is an overview of key findings from all Metrics reports to date.
Related reports can be found by following the link below.
International Transportation Learning Center
February 2010
Training Partnerships That Work: An Emerging National Network
Training Partnerships That Work provides vivid summaries of successful labor-management training partnerships at sites across the country. The cases included here represent a diverse set of transit systems and unique training partnerships. Most importantly, they illustrate how labor and management can work together successfully on issues of training, and provide valuable lessons for other industries facing the problem of retiring baby boomers and inadequate capacity to train replacement workers.
International Transportation Learning Center
February 2010
TCRP Report 142: Vehicle Operator Recruitment, Retention, and Performance in ADA Complementary Paratransit Operations
TRB’s Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) Report 142: Vehicle Operator Recruitment, Retention, and Performance in ADA Complementary Paratransit Operations provides guidance for understanding the relationships that influence and enhance operator recruitment, retention, and performance in Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) complementary paratransit services.
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP)
January 2010
TOPICS: Hiring and Recruitment , Retention , Training and Development
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Jointly Sponsored Training Systems In American Industries
This paper examines recent developments in credentialing in jointly sponsored training and qualifications systems across the United States. This paper builds on previous work on building trades joint apprenticeship and training programs, which describes their structure and activities and documents their superior performance over programs unilaterally operated by employers. Jointly sponsored training programs are not common in the U.S., but strong programs are found in the building trades where they serve important roles in preparing and qualifying the skilled craft workers.
International Transportation Learning Center (with Robert W. Glover, the University of Texas at Austin)
February 2009
Working Together: A Systems Approach for Transit Training
Transit faces a critical skills challenge driven by changing technologies, shifting workforce demographics and record-breaking growth in ridership.
Working Together: A Systems Approach for Transit Training outlines how constructive training partnerships provide the most effective way for the transit industry to address its skill challenges. National labor-management committees have met regularly for several years to develop consensus training guidelines. These joint committees have been focusing on five transit maintenance occupations: bus, rail signals, traction power, rail vehicles and elevator/escalator. A parallel joint effort has been crafting a national framework for transit apprenticeship.
International Transportation Learning Center
January 2009
Building an Apprenticeship and Training System for Maintenance Occupations
This article discusses the joint training and apprenticeship system emerging in maintenance occupations in the American transit industry, its challenges and strategies to overcome them. The article reports on early results, including efforts to develop a consensus national framework for apprenticeship and training in transit maintenance.
International Transportation Learning Center (with Robert W. Glover, the University of Texas at Austin)
January 2009
TOPICS: Apprenticeship , Career Pathways , Training and Development
Building Capacity for Transit Training: International and Domestic Comparisons
This working paper provides an initial overview of the findings from ongoing research at the Transportation Learning Center regarding strong industry-wide workforce development systems in six other countries and in several US industries.
International Transportation Learning Center
December 2008
TCRP Research Results Digest 88: Innovative Practices in Transit Workforce Development
TRB’s Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) Research Results Digest 88: Innovative Practices in Transit Workforce Development examines innovative practices in workforce development in several cities in Canada, France, and Belgium.
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP)
June 2008
Metrics of Success Series
The Metrics of Success series chronicles measurable outcomes, in particular return on investment, of transit training partnerships in which the International Transportation Learning Center has had a substantial role. Each Metrics report focuses on quantitative data from a specific partnership, while Transit Partnership Training: Metrics of Success is an overview of key findings from all Metrics reports to date.
International Transportation Learning Center
May 2008
Transit Partnership Training: Metrics of Success – Expanded Edition
Smart Investment Partnership: New York State's Transit Workforce Training Proves its Worth
Measuring Up: Keystone Training Partnership – Vol. 1
Measuring Up: Keystone Training Partnership – Vol. 2
Keystone – Making a Difference in Pennsylvania Transit
Keystone – Pennsylvania Transit on the High Road
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Developing a Joint System of Training and Apprenticeship in American Transit
Transit systems in the United States are facing unprecedented challenges in obtaining the workforce skills in maintenance departments to address pervasive technological changes, to replace an impending wave of retirements of “baby boom” workers, and to accommodate significant growth in transit ridership. Several new technologies have been driving change in the transit industry, especially advanced electronics used in controls for engines, transmissions, or brakes and in all aspects of communications, including global positioning satellite (GPS) systems. Many technologies such as electronic fare cards, automatic vehicle location (AVL) supporting real-time information systems, and new transit rail lines have increased customer convenience and led directly to growing ridership. In addition, environmental concerns are driving adoption of new clean propulsion technologies. Earlier innovations such as compressed natural gas are being augmented by cleaner-burning diesel and hybrid gas-electric and diesel-electric propulsion systems. Prospects are for continued changes; biodiesel, hydrogen, ultra-clean diesel and fuel cell power are on the horizon.
This paper reviews training innovations and lessons that may be applicable to the transit industry from practices used in other industries. It draws on a rich body of experience of joint apprenticeship and training programs, as well as employer-sponsored training.
International Transportation Learning Center (with Robert W. Glover, the University of Texas at Austin)
September 2007
TOPICS: Apprenticeship , Training and Development
People Make the Hardware Work: Transit Experts Call for Labor-Management Training Partnerships
This short piece outlines five tools for success in labor-management training partnerships:
1. Unions as Partners
2. A Joint Training Strategy
3. Empowering the Workforce
4. Cultivating a Learning Organization
5. Reaching High Performance
International Transportation Learning Center & TCRP
March 2007
TCRP Report 103: Public Transportation Operating Agencies as Employers of Choice
TRB’s Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) Report 103: Public Transportation Operating Agencies as Employers of Choice documents principles, techniques, and strategies that are used in workforce recruitment, development, and retention.
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP)
January 2004
Pennsylvania Transit on the High Road
This report is part of a larger case study that chronicles the development of the Keystone Transit Career Ladder Partnership, including the process of job task/work task analysis, skills gap analysis, and data-driven training development.
International Transportation Learning Center
Transit Apprenticeship at Pierce Transit: From the Ground Up
Pierce Transit is part of a transit apprenticeship initiative and has received technical assistance in structuring their apprenticeship program as well as financial assistance to reimburse some training costs.
International Transportation Learning Center & APTA Passenger Transport
TOPICS: Apprenticeship , Training and Development
RESOURCE TYPE: Publications | TRANSIT MODE: All Modes
Training for Transportation Technicians: Which Delivery Methods Work Best?
This paper explores the question “what is the most effective way to train transportation technicians?” It proposes a blended approach combining classroom time with interactive hands-on demonstrations, followed by structured on-the-job training (OJT) and mentoring.
International Transportation Learning Center
TOPICS: Apprenticeship , Career Pathways , Training and Development
Moving Forward: Toward Women’s Equity and Inclusion in the Rail and Transit Sector
A toolkit for increasing women’s employment in Traditionally male dominated high-wage, high-skill fields on the railroad and in public transit agencies.