New York City Transit (NYCT) celebrated the graduation of 27 new train operators from its Transit Learning Center in Brooklyn, marking a significant step in bolstering subway services for the city’s commuters. This achievement comes on the heels of a notable ridership surge, with subways recording a post-pandemic ridership record of 3,641,033 on September 9th, highlighting the increasing demand for reliable public transportation.
These newly qualified train operators are crucial in addressing crew shortages that have impacted service frequency. Their graduation signifies the culmination of an intensive training program that commenced in April 2022 at the Transit Learning Center, a dedicated facility designed to equip individuals with the skills necessary for operating New York City’s complex subway system.
“As ridership rebounds, we are committed to enhancing employee availability, and the Transit Learning Center plays a pivotal role in this endeavor,” stated New York City Transit President Richard Davey. “This latest class of train operators ensures that we can continue to provide efficient and dependable transit options for everyone returning to work and education this fall. The Transit Learning Center is instrumental in preparing our workforce to meet the evolving needs of New Yorkers.”
Demetrius Crichlow, New York City Transit Senior Vice President of Subways, emphasized the ongoing efforts to strengthen the workforce, stating, “Our consistent recruitment and training initiatives, spearheaded by the Transit Learning Center, are directly translating to improved train availability for our customers. Workforce development remains a priority as we strive to deliver superior subway service throughout New York City. The Transit Learning Center is at the heart of these efforts, providing essential training and fostering a skilled workforce.”
The recent graduates join the ranks of hundreds of bus operators, train operators, and conductors who have completed their training at the Transit Learning Center in recent years. This proactive approach to workforce expansion is a direct response to staffing challenges exacerbated by a pandemic-induced hiring freeze. The Transit Learning Center is not only focused on training new recruits but also plays a crucial role in the continuous professional development of existing transit personnel, ensuring a highly skilled and adaptable workforce. By leveraging the Transit Learning Center, the MTA is proactively addressing staff shortages and investing in the future of public transportation in New York City.
