In January, The Rapid strengthened its team by welcoming Veronica Lowe as the new transportation manager.
Lowe brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience, having been a leader in public and pupil transportation for more than 24 years. Prior to joining The Rapid, Lowe served in a diverse set of roles, including chief of paratransit and taxi operations in Prince George’s County, Md; director of transportation for Frederick County Public Schools, (Frederick, Md.); transportation supervisor for Grand Rapids Public Schools; manager of Your Ride paratransit service in Flint, Mich; and coordinator of community education transportation for Grand Rapids Public Schools. Her work accomplishments include implementing cost saving measures, drastically reducing department overtime, and reducing employee absenteeism through accountability.
She has further demonstrated her commitment to public transportation by serving in over a dozen professional associations and committees, adding to her expertise in leadership, team building, development, planning, and customer service. Lowe’s educational experience has also given her the tools necessary to lead, earning an MBA in Leadership Studies from Baker College, Center for Graduate Studies in 2005.
Lowe’s daily responsibilities will include overseeing a staff of approximately 275 bus operators and 12 supervisors within the transportation department, as well as developing and implementing departmental policies, administering departmental operating budgets, and identifying and implementing training needs and programs.
“We are pleased that Veronica has joined The Rapid as Transportation Manager,” said Rapid Chief Operations Officer Brian Pouget. “A Grand Rapids native, she brings a rich background of service in both public and pupil transportation. Veronica’s experience in Michigan and Maryland has prepared her well to lead the 280+ employees of the Transportation Department.”