Workforce and Staffing Considerations for Rural Transportation Programs
Workforce and staffing considerations are a crucial component of any rural transportation program. It is important to determine the number of staff needed to operate a program and ensure that there are adequate staff to operate the program on an ongoing basis. In rural areas, creating new transportation jobs could provide an economic boost for the community.
Rural transportation programs may require different types of staff, such as:
- Human resources staff
- Customer service representatives
- Dispatchers
- Drivers/operators
Staff labor accounts for most of the operating costs for a transportation program. Programs should also consider trainings and certifications required for staff to operate transit equipment.
The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) provides resources and support for public transit workforce development through the Workforce Development Initiative. Through this program, the FTA offers technical assistance and provides other resources to help states develop and sustain the transportation workforce. This technical assistance can help programs address and implement safety checks, additional accessibility measures, and other best practices.
A program funded by the Federal Highway Administration, the National Network for the Transportation Workforce, focuses on developing and strengthening the transportation workforce. Regional workforce centers work on improving coordination of transportation services within their designated region to break down silos, improve efficiency, and reduce duplication of efforts.
Resources to Learn More
Grant Application Checklist for a Strong Transportation Workforce and Labor Plan
Website
Identifies the core components for developing a transportation workforce and labor plan when applying for
a U.S. Department of Transportation grant. Includes a checklist of items and definitions to consider when
developing the application.
Organizations(s): U.S. Department of Transportation