Making Connections 2024 – Outreach and Retention for Under-Represented and Underserved Communities

This session about recruitment initiatives for underserved populations was presented as part of TWC’s Making Connections 2024 transit workforce conference in November, 2024.

Session Description: This session dove deeper into targeted recruitment strategies for frontline transit careers. While the general outreach techniques covered in other Making Connections sessions work well across populations, some groups that have historically been underrepresented in transit may need to be recruited through intentional, specific approaches. This session featured industry experts who have been involved with thoughtful, creative recruitment methods targeting groups of people not often considered in recruitment efforts, including veterans, individuals returning to the community after incarceration, people with disabilities, and those experiencing homelessness. Participants gained new ideas for innovative recruitment techniques that can bolster the inclusiveness of transit workplaces and identify qualified candidates.

Moderator: 

• Dr. Shayna Gleason: Senior Researcher – International Transportation Learning Center / Transit Workforce Center

Speakers:

• Dominique Bolton: Homeless Case Manager – Community Development Inc. (MS)
• Dr. Charles Husband: Program Specialist Team Leader – Mississippi Department of Transportation
• Bianca W. Phillips: Community Recruitment Manager – IndyGo
• Lora Posey: DSA Director – Community Development Inc. (MS)
• Adam Rosenfield: Program Manager, Workforce Outreach – CapMetro
• Judy Shanley: Assistant Vice President & National Director, Transportation & Mobility – Easterseals