ATU Mentorships are Thriving Across North America
Across North America, ATU mentorship programs have been a lifeline and a catalyst for change. Our programs connect experienced professionals with emerging talent to strengthen our communities, empower workers, and shape the future of our industry. From busy urban centers to smaller Locals, these programs are fostering meaningful relationships and opening closed doors. As participation in our mentorship programs continues to grow, so does the impact, one connection at a time.
“ATU mentorship programs aren’t just about passing on knowledge. They are about creating a support system,” said International President John Costa. “They are about learning from those who’ve walked the path before us. They’re about setting up our members for a successful career in transit.”
We highlight a few of these innovative programs at Locals across our Union.
Local 819-Newark, NJ, Launches Mentors Moving NJ Transit Program
In the Garden State, International President Costa’s home Local 819-Newark, NJ, is leading the way with the launch of their Mentors Moving NJ Transit, the newest joint labor-management partnership between the Local and NJ Transit. This Coach Operator Mentor Training program will serve as a pilot to launch at ATU Locals across New Jersey. When labor and management come together around workforce development, it’s a win for everyone.
Mentoring in the Motor City
In Detroit, MI, our Local 26 recently launched mentorships for QLINE rail operators and Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) bus operators. These programs are about more than onboarding or training. They are about connection, support, and building confidence from day one. The mentor operators play a critical role in preparing our newest operators for the challenges they will face on the job. By pairing new operators with experienced ATU mentors, our Local is reinforcing the idea that no member starts their journey alone.
Local 1015-Spokane, WA, Operator Mentorship
Recognizing the challenges facing their new coach operators, our Local 1015-Spokane, WA, approached Spokane Transit about launching a Coach Operator Mentorship Program, but the transit agency didn’t want to partner and had no interest in mentorship or apprenticeship programs. Undeterred, our Local launched the program as an ATU-only initiative. The excitement from our members, the level of participation, and the energy around building a strong operator support system ultimately brought the agency to the table.
The new Coach Operator Mentor Program is operating under their Joint Labor-Management Partnership, which they’ve named Pathfinders. That enthusiasm and success of the mentorship has now led Pathfinders to explore the development of registered apprenticeship programs, a major shift from where we started.
Mentorship Texas Style
Our Local 1091-Austin, TX, conducted their first maintenance mentor training in partnership with Keolis and CapMetro. This milestone was made possible because of the Apprenticeship Building America (ABA) grant, which supported the creation of their Bus Mechanic Registered Apprenticeship Program. With this foundation in place, the Local is building out a mentorship structure that will help apprentices succeed, strengthen retention, and support long-term workforce development at the property.
The success of ATU’s mentorship programs across North America is a testament to the power of shared knowledge. What began as an initiative to guide individuals has evolved into a movement, one that uplifts, inspires, and prepares the next generation for lasting success. As mentors and mentees continue to learn from one another, they’re shaping careers and strengthening the fabric of our Union. With momentum building and stories of transformation emerging from every corner, ATU’s mentorship programs stand as a powerful model for what’s possible when people invest in people.