More Than a Driver: How Core Transit Operators Help Keep the Community Connected

In Eagle County, public transportation is more than moving people from one stop to another. It is about connecting communities, supporting independence, strengthening the local economy, and helping people access everyday opportunities throughout the region. 

And for many Core Transit operators, it is also the start of a meaningful, long-term career. 

As Core Transit continues expanding services and partnerships throughout the valley, the organization is focused on building a team of dependable, community-minded individuals interested in meaningful, long-term careers. 

One of the biggest misconceptions about becoming a transit operator is that applicants need previous commercial driving experience. In reality, Core Transit provides paid CDL training and supports new operators through an intensive 6–8 week training program designed to prepare them for a stable, long-term career behind the wheel. The full-time training program requires dedication and commitment from day one, helping ensure operators feel confident, prepared, and supported as they begin serving the community. 

For many operators, driving for Core Transit represents an opportunity to completely change career paths while building a rewarding future in the mountains. 

Core Transit offers competitive benefits, including 4-weeks of paid vacation, free employee health insurance, a 10% retirement match, wellness and employee assistance programs, and potential housing opportunities for qualifying employees. 

But for many team members, what makes Core Transit special goes beyond the benefits. 

Throughout the year, employees participate in community events, staff outings, appreciation activities, seasonal gatherings, wellness initiatives, and opportunities to connect outside of work. From group trips and local events to summer picnics and monthly staff raffles, the organization works to create a culture where employees feel valued, supported, and connected to one another. 

“People often think operating a bus is only about driving,” said Tanya Allen, Executive Director of Core Transit. “But our operators are truly at the core of the community. They are often the first smile someone sees in the morning, the person helping someone safely get to work, school, a doctor’s appointment, or home. They create connections every single day.” 

And not every operator follows the same route. 

Core Transit operators support a wide variety of services across the region. Some drive fixed routes through mountain corridors and local communities. Others help seniors stay active and connected through specialized senior shuttle programs. Some provide paratransit services, offering curb-to-curb transportation for riders who need additional support getting to medical appointments, daily activities, and essential destinations. 

One of those operators is Liduvina, who drives the MIRA Bus through a partnership between Core Transit and the Eagle Valley Community Foundation. The MIRA program helps bring resources directly into neighborhoods throughout the valley, supporting community members who may face barriers accessing services on their own. 

For Liduvina, the work goes far beyond transportation. 

Through daily interactions with riders, she helps create trust, familiarity, and connection throughout the community. Whether helping someone get to an appointment, navigate resources, or simply feel welcomed and seen, her role reflects the heart of what public transportation can be. 

Each operator role serves the community differently, but all of them help move the region forward. 

“This career is about much more than transportation,” said Allen. “It is about helping people. It is about reliability, trust, community, and being proud of the work you do every day.” 

And while the work is meaningful, it also comes with a unique office view. 

From snowy winter mornings to golden fall afternoons, operators travel through some of Colorado’s most beautiful mountain landscapes each day while helping connect residents, employees, students, seniors, and visitors throughout the region. 

For those looking to start a new chapter, Core Transit hopes more people will see transportation not simply as a job, but as a career with purpose, community, and room to grow. 

Because sometimes changing career lanes can help move an entire community forward. 

Learn more about career opportunities with Core Transit at CoreTransit.org/careers.