Samantha Eberling

Quality Assurance Manager

“Working in what can be perceived as a non-traditional role can be challenging. As a woman, you can’t back down or be afraid to show your skills.“

To me, Women’s History Month is about celebrating all women who have influenced history and are making contributions to society. I don’t think I’m making history, but I may be blazing a trail or two. Working on engines and electronics has always been an interest of mine, so becoming a diesel technician was an easy decision for me, but it hasn’t been an easy road. Starting off in this non-traditional role was challenging – from before the interview even started being told “this is a waste of time for me” or to the many post-interview “no’s” I received, to my first day on the job being asked if I was just a bored housewife. But, I did not give up. I continued to work toward my goal of becoming a diesel mechanic and have since been promoted to the quality assurance manager position at my location, where I now train and work with mechanics on diagnostics and inspections. Based on my work ethic and my diagnostic skills, a few of my co-workers have even since apologized to me for their first (unfounded) impressions of me.

If working in the transit industry is a passion of yours, then go for it. Don’t back down or be afraid to show your skills.

Do you have a woman role model that has inspired you? The woman role model in my life is my mom. She has always inspired me to do my best and work hard.

Tori Scheuerman

Regional IT Manager

“Women’s History Month represents a time to look at how far women have come. I’m inspired by the women from our past who effected change in their time, for the current generation, and beyond.”

Women’s History Month represents a time to look back on how far women have come.  I love to look back and remember the women from our past, present and those in our future that will continue to make changes for generations. I believe I am making a difference in the Information and Technology field by showing that anyone can have any career they choose if they work hard. I must admit working in a non-traditional role can be challenging at times, but for the most part I feel I am treated equally and respected in my field. I try my best to work as hard as possible and just think of my role as the job that I love and want to succeed in.

There is great opportunity for growth in the transit industry. There is so much that happens in the transit industry that you will constantly be learning. Like everywhere, you need to work hard in any position, and if your mind is set is to succeed, then you will.

Do you have a woman role model that has inspired you? My inspiration came from my mom. She was always telling me to work hard, and I could achieve whatever I wanted. I believe she was a bit harder on me than my other siblings because I was a woman, and she knew the extra guidance would pay off.

Hope Ann Smith

Senior Transit Planner and Scheduler

“The softness and gracefulness of being a woman allows for a powerful and well-rounded perspective that is unique and very necessary in transit.”

Women’s History Month is a time of celebration to honor the accomplishments of women and the innovative perspective that women have brought to all types of industries. It is a time to acknowledge the challenges women have had in their pursuit to be a valued member of society. It is a time to reflect on how effortlessly women take on several roles at once without skipping a beat, and have made beautiful and impactful contributions. I started in transit as a full-time bus driver while I was in college as a full-time student. I quickly moved up the ranks, and was so drawn to problem-solving and being of service to the community. I was always committed to being at the disposal of the community, as you never know how much of an impact you can make on someone’s life. I feel that women should always be unique and not lose their femininity in fear that they might portray weakness as a leader. The softness and gracefulness of being a woman allows for a powerful and well-rounded perspective that is unique and very necessary in transit.

Do you have a woman role model that has inspired you? A female role model that has inspired me is my mother. She embodies the true definition of a strong, yet nurturing woman, and is a light in every room she occupies. My mother wore many hats: an Assistant VP of Finance, a wife, a mother and so much more, but she never skipped a beat and always put forth her best efforts. She is my motivation to always be the best version of myself.

Erin Vance

Financial Planning Analyst

“It’s essential for women in our industry to embrace innovation, challenge norms, continue learning. When we are learning, we are improving!”

Women’s History month to me is a time to celebrate and recognize inspiring female leaders, inventors, and speakers who have changed history or are even changing history still. I’ve been inspired by the hardworking people on our team who keep me inspired and motivated every day. I’m encouraged to bring 110% because they also bring 110% and it never feels unequal.

When working in a non-traditional role, you have to be ok with being outside of your comfort zone and learning new things – sometimes that means being a beginner at something and taking feedback or constructive criticism in order to grow and be better. I feel like when I am learning, I am getting better! My advice to women entering the transit industry is to embrace innovation and challenge the norms. Becoming better and breaking records is one way you get noticed in the transit industry. Seek out mentors and build a strong network to continue your professional development from there.

Do you have a woman role model that has inspired you? One of the women that has inspired me is Misty Copeland who has been an advocate for diversity in the American Ballet and continues to inspire through her perseverance and passion for the dance. I’m inspired by her to challenge norms for a better future.

Norma Zamora

Area Vice President – Transit Management Service

“Being a woman in the transit industry can be challenging. But, when you like what you do, overcoming challenges is just part of the journey. I truly feel that I am making a difference in my community.”

Women’s History Month marks the opportunity to acknowledge the great work women have done throughout the years in transit and for their community. It also provides us with the chance to raise awareness around the women in this industry and their amazing contributions and how there are opportunities available to others. I helped improve connectivity in our region through transportation. When one of our passengers made it a point to come to my office to thank me for the work I was doing and that a new route we added helped them get to the local college, get groceries, and make it to their doctor appointment on time, I knew I had to persevere through the challenges and stay in the industry.

As a woman, and a Mexican American woman, there aren’t many people who look like me doing what I do. Men, in my culture, don’t like being told what to do by a woman. But, when you like what you do, overcoming challenges is just part of the journey.

Do you have a woman role model who has inspired you? The woman who inspired me was the first Mexican American, female mayor of Brownsville, Texas – Blanca Vela. She was a strong supporter of public transportation. She shared that she wouldn’t have been able to attend college if it wasn’t for public transit. She encouraged me many times to not give up, to stand up for myself, and to stay firm in my beliefs. I believed her when she said that I could make a difference in my community and that has always stayed with me.