Full Throttle: Mechanic Finds Her Calling at METRO

The METRO garage is bustling with activity. Among the 40-foot buses and various other transit authority vehicles, Jesseca Hernandez, a young METRO mechanic, is fully focused on her task. Her oil-streaked overalls and intense expression reflect her dedication.

Hernandez has always been passionate about cars and initially dreamed of building race cars. However, a chance encounter with the diesel shop at her college changed her career path.

Now, a month into her new job at METRO, she is finding her place in the male-dominated industry. She embodies the strength of her Navajo and Mexican roots. In the heart of METRO's repair shop, she is demonstrating that with passion and determination, anyone can carve out a successful path.

Jesseca enjoys the variety her job offers, from fixing AC systems to tackling air leaks. Her hands-on approach has earned her respect among her colleagues.

"Jumping into a male-dominated industry definitely has its challenges," said Hernandez. "But it allows you to develop a thick skin, and I am really enjoying it."

The challenges are real, but she says METRO’s supportive environment and great benefits make it worthwhile. Hernandez says that thousands of dollars in hiring incentives, $20k in tool reimbursements, free uniforms, and a birthday holiday are all perks for which she is grateful.

"METRO even paid for my prescription safety glasses," she said. "I don't know of many companies that offer these types of benefits."

Hernandez says what she does at METRO doesn’t feel like work at all and that others just starting out can find their way too.

"If your passion and love for the industry is there, taking that leap is definitely worth it." Outside of work, Hernandez indulges her passion for performance cars at meets and racetracks. Downtime is mainly spent with her close-knit family.