Column: How shared commitment empowers mobility innovation

Right now, the world is shifting rapidly, and the way we move through it is evolving just as fast. When navigating new challenges and landscapes, having a range of perspectives is not just beneficial—it is essential. Different voices help us anticipate, innovate and stay ahead in an industry that is always changing. At Transdev, our success depends on our ability to know and be ready for whatever comes next. This is exactly what strong leadership enables us to do every day.  

My colleague Susan Sweat, our COO of transit, is a perfect example. She has built her career on the idea that the best solutions come from the people closest to the work. She knows that empowering our frontline teams—giving them the confidence and skills to make decisions—makes our entire operation stronger. She is committed to fostering a culture where our operators, supervisors and managers feel heard, valued and equipped to lead in their own right.  

Lauren Skiver, our COO of rail, NEMT, fleet services, and safety and maintenance, brings another critical perspective, as she has spent her career making sure technology and workforce development go hand in hand. At the end of the day, the latest tools and systems are only as good as the people using them. Her focus on training, mentorship and adaptation means our teams are not just keeping up with industry shifts—they are staying ahead of them. That is how we ensure a great experience for both employees and passengers.  

For me, leadership is all about creating opportunities for others. Whether it is through mentorship, leadership development programs or simply recognizing someone’s potential, I have seen how small moments can turn into major career growth. Public transit is ultimately about service—about people—and when we invest in our teams, the impact ripples far beyond our own organization. It improves our communities, strengthens our industry and keeps us moving forward.  

At Transdev, we know that real innovation is not just about technology; it is about people. It is about making sure that every voice is heard, and that teams at every level feel empowered to contribute ideas. It’s ensuring those leading the charge have the tools and support to keep pushing forward. Mobility is changing and so are the people leading the way.  

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it’s clear that the contributions of women in transit are not just shaping the future of this industry — they are defining it. By fostering environments where people can grow, foresee and lead through challenges and opportunities, we are not just moving people from point A to point B,but we are making sure the entire industry is ready for whatever comes next.