A critical part of my platform is Enhanced Career Training, which focuses on providing Paid Career Advancement Training and Free CUNY education to all Stations employees. This will empower employees to gain new skills and certifications, reduce the MTA’s reliance on outsourcing, and promote internal career growth, ensuring that the workforce has the tools and education they need to succeed and advance within the MTA.

Why CAREER TRAINING Matters

• Career Growth and Development: Many employees in Stations want to advance their careers but face obstacles due to limited access to training and education. Paid Career Advancement Training will give employees the chance to gain valuable skills, obtain industry-relevant certifications, and prepare for leadership roles within the MTA. By offering this paid training, employees won’t have to choose between earning a paycheck and investing in their future.

• Reducing Outsourcing and Strengthening Our Workforce: Currently, the MTA relies heavily on outsourcing for specialized roles and tasks. By providing comprehensive, in-house training, we can reduce the need for external contractors and consultants, saving money and ensuring that the talent and expertise remain within the MTA. Employees will be able to fill these specialized roles, which strengthens our workforce and builds institutional knowledge.

• Free CUNY Education for Career Advancement: Many employees may need formal education to qualify for higher-level positions within the MTA. This includes free CUNY education for employees pursuing career advancement. Whether it’s a degree in engineering, management, or information technology, employees will have access to the education they need to grow. By partnering with CUNY, we can provide this education at no cost to the employee, making higher education more accessible and fostering long-term career growth.

The Economic Impact

• Building a Skilled Workforce: Offering paid training and free education allows the MTA to build a highly skilled workforce from within, reducing the need to rely on external consultants or specialized contractors. This not only saves money for the MTA but also ensures that the workforce is better prepared to handle the challenges of a rapidly evolving transit system. By investing in our employees, we are investing in the future of the MTA.

• Increased Job Satisfaction and Retention: Employees who have access to career advancement opportunities are more likely to stay with their employer. This ensures that every employee has the chance to grow within the company, increasing job satisfaction and reducing turnover. According to research by LinkedIn, employees are more likely to stay with a company if they are given opportunities for career development and advancement. By providing paid training and free education, we’re creating a culture of growth and retention within the MTA.

• Reducing Training Costs Over Time: While offering paid training and free CUNY education requires an upfront investment, it will ultimately reduce long-term training and recruitment costs. Employees who have access to career development are more likely to stay in their roles longer, and the MTA will save on the costs of recruiting and training new employees. Additionally, reducing outsourcing will lead to significant savings in project costs.

Why IT Matters Now

• Keeping Up with Industry Changes: The transit industry is changing rapidly, with new technologies and systems being implemented regularly. Employees need access to ongoing training to keep up with these changes and remain competitive. Paid Career Advancement Training ensures that every employee has the opportunity to stay current with industry trends, gain new certifications, and grow their skill set in line with the MTA’s evolving needs.

• Supporting Employees at Every Level: Whether you’re just starting your career with the MTA or looking to move into management or specialized roles, this will provide the tools you need to succeed. By offering free CUNY education, we’re ensuring that no employee is held back by financial barriers. This creates a clear path for career advancement, whether through formal education or on-the-job training.

• Empowering a Diverse Workforce: Enhanced Career Training also promotes diversity within the MTA by giving employees from all backgrounds the opportunity to advance. Free education and paid training make career growth accessible to everyone, regardless of their current position or financial situation. This will help create a more diverse and inclusive workforce, where everyone has the opportunity to grow and succeed.

It’s about Growth and Development

Enhanced Career Training is about giving every Stations employee the opportunity to succeed, advance, and grow within the MTA. By offering Paid Career Advancement Training and Free CUNY education, we are creating a supportive environment that values skill development and career growth. It will reduce outsourcing, strengthen our workforce, and empower every employee to take control of their future.

It reflects our commitment to career development, financial stability & employee empowerment. Together, we can ensure that every employee has the opportunity to advance, build new skills, and contribute to the success of the MTA. Let’s invest in our workforce, reduce reliance on outsourcing, and create a future where career growth is accessible to all.