Mass Transit magazine features agency profiles, industry trends, management tips and new product information.
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54 | Mass Transit | MassTransitmag.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 institutions on alert that through the growth of Los Angeles area transporta- tion infrastructure, a student can make choices now that will put them on track for a rewarding lifetime career. It's a win for all parties." Indeed, a career in transportation was not even on the radar of some par- ticipants. Mike Marderosian, a computer technology instructor for the Montebel- lo School District, said his students can beneft greatly from knowing what career opportunities exist in mass transit. "I had no idea of the extent of what is already in place, and better yet, what is to be," he said. "Exposure to career possibilities would be of the greatest value for my students. No doubt, any one of us can remember when we were young and facing the same questions as my students. Constantly looming over our head would be the prospect that in a short while we would need to decide what to do with the rest of our lives. My students face the same questions: What will interest me? Which industry sector will afford compensation to live at a level that I want? Where will there be stable employment? How can I find a job that I will find rewarding?" With many new projects in the works in Los Angeles County, there are many opportunities for a career in transporta- tion, according to Samantha Bricker, chief operating ofcer of the Exposition Metro Line Construction Authority and a WTS- LA director at large. "There are numerous opportunities for young people to pursue careers in all aspects of the transportation sector, from engineering and construction to community relations and procurement. The key will be to introduce faculty — administrators and teachers — to this growing industry and showcase the var- ious positions that are available and skill sets needed to perform these jobs. The WTS-LA externship was a positive first step on this path and hopefully will lead to more schools and colleges encourag- ing their students to pursue opportuni- ties in the transportation field." Lightweight Bayblend ® MTR (Mass Transit Rail) extruded thermoplastic sheet gives your seats and interiors a head start with something for everyone. Engineers value that it complies with low FST standards with superior mechanical properties. Administrators approve of the material-savings potential. Fabricators appreciate its faster cycling times. Even designers are pleased, thanks to multiple textures, colors, and decorative laminated flm options. Get on board with the interiors of tomorrow, today, with recyclable Bayblend ® MTR. Lighten Your Load MTR Bayer MaterialScience LLC 119 Salisbury Road, Sheffeld, MA 01257 800-254-1707 FAX: 800-457-3553 E-mail: sfdinfo@bayer.com Website: www.sheffeldplastics.com For more information, visit www.MassTransitmag.com/10066368 AS PART of their introduction to a broad range of career options in light rail transit, educators visited Metro Rail's operating Division 20 Yard, where they visited the train maintenance facility and control tower. PILOT PROGRAM