APTA Says Almost All North American Transit Agencies Face Worker Shortage

Worker shortages have affected nearly every sector of the North American economy during the past year, and the American Public Transportation Association recently released a study that shows the transit industry is no exception.

The study reports that about 96% of transit agencies have been impacted to some extent, while the majority of those have been affected to the point that they’re having difficulty maintaining regular service.

APTA says that the worker shortage is “widespread and severe,” and is a problem for transit agencies of all sizes. In the long run, APTA says that the agencies must focus on workforce development. In the short run, APTA says the focus should be on workforce development, maintenance of high standards of worker safety, creation of a positive work environment, increased compensation, and improved worker schedules when possible.

Paul Skoutelas, APTA’s President and CEO, said “This shortage is complex, multifaceted, and connected to changes in the broader culture and economy. [The shortage] is the confluence of multiple factors and successfully responding to it will involve a comprehensive approach.”

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