Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

Release Date: Feb. 21, 2023
Media Hot Line: 713.739.4040

METRO Receives Funding to Train Zero-Emissions Bus Mechanics

METRO, county and union leaders announce funding for apprenticeship programs at a Feb. 21, 2023 press conference.

METRO has been awarded approximately $1.2 million to broaden its apprenticeship program and prepare its mechanics for the coming transition to zero-emissions buses.

The funding comes after Harris County Commissioners voted Tuesday to approve a $9.1 million contract for local union apprenticeships in the building, construction, entertainment and transportation industries.

METRO will use its portion of the funding to expand the Authority’s current entry-level bus mechanic program to include additional training for future vehicle technologies focusing on electrical components and extensive hands-on training.

In 2021, METRO announced a sustainability plan to convert its bus procurement practices to zero-emissions vehicles by 2030. These new vehicles will require METRO employees who maintain the new fleets to retool their skills.

“Thanks to the Apprenticeship Advantage program, we are excited to announce our plans to broaden the scope of our training to prepare bus mechanics for the coming transition to zero-emissions buses," said METRO Board Chair Sanjay Ramabhadran.

“We’re very excited that one facet of this apprenticeship program would be to work with METRO and the Transport Workers Union Local 260 to expand green jobs and opportunities,” said Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo. “I always talk about how we are the energy capital of the world, and we want remain so. We have to lead in the transition to clean energy.”

“More than ever, the working people of Harris County—especially people of color, women, and youth—need training and career pathways that lead to good-paying jobs. That’s why Harris County is investing in the Apprenticeship Advantage program to develop a skilled workforce that can meet the demands of our local economy," said Commissioner Rodney Ellis.

“High quality apprenticeships run jointly by unions and employers are a proven path to prosperity," said Hany Khalil, Executive Director of the Texas Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation, AFL-CIO.

“During the energy transition, we have a chance to build a better community for ourselves. To expand opportunities to everyone in Harris County, and make sure that underserved communities have access to good, safe jobs," said Horace Marves, President of TWU Local 260.

The funding is possible because of the American Rescue Plan Act and President Biden’s Build Back Better agenda, which delivered over $900 million in funding to Harris County.

METRO thanks Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh, the Harris County Commissioners Court, TWU Local 260 and TGCALF as the Authority expands opportunities for those who keep the Houston region moving.

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) is the region’s largest public transit provider, offering safe, clean, reliable, accessible and friendly transportation services. METRO’s transit network includes local bus, METRORail, which includes the Red Line (Main Street and Northline), the Green Line (East End) and the Purple Line (Southeast), Park & Ride commuter buses, METROLift paratransit service, HOV/HOT Express Lanes, curb2curb microtransit service and METRO Star Vanpool. In 2020, the Authority introduced the METRORapid Silver Line, the region’s first bus rapid transit service. Bike & Ride programs and road improvement projects are also part of METRO’s commitment to the Houston region. Focused on investing in the region’s future mobility needs, the Authority developed the METRONext Moving Forward Plan. METRO is also the first transit provider in the region to pilot autonomous vehicle shuttle technology. Learn more about METRO services at RideMETRO.org, where you will also find useful tools like the RideMETRO app where you can plan your trip and even pay your fare from your phone.