• Age: 33 
• Role: Dispatcher 
• Employer: Rockwall ISD 
• Location: Rockwall, TX 

Vanecia Weathers is building a transportation career defined by teamwork and a willingness to step into every opportunity that comes her way. As a dispatcher for Rockwall ISD in Texas, Weathers plays a central role in keeping daily operations running smoothly while steadily preparing for the next step in her journey. 

Like most, Weathers didn’t begin her career in student transportation. She started in the medical field before deciding it was time for a change, and when that time came, she pursued her commercial driver’s license. Her entry into the industry came at Mesquite ISD in Texas, where she worked as a monitor and assisted in the transportation office. 

“After starting at Mesquite ISD, I discovered my passion for transportation,” Weathers said. After earning her CDL, she transitioned to Rockwall ISD as a dispatcher, where she is “committed to continued growth and advancement.” 

No two days in her role look the same, and that’s exactly what she loves about it. 

“Each day brings something new,” Weathers said. “Whether I'm attending meetings, assisting with crossing guards, transporting students, helping with field trips, or supporting drivers, no two days are the same.”  

In addition to collaborating with fellow dispatchers to assign routes, she fields calls from parents and schools and helps ensure coverage for daily and weekly operations. The variety in her roles is a welcome change, as it allows Weathers to be involved in all aspects of transportation, which continues to support her professional growth. 

A past mentor recalled that within weeks of working together and as responsibilities increased, Weathers “took the initiative to observe my workflows and proactively created a task list of duties she could support with.” She became proficient in routing software and stepped in to assist with dispatch whenever coverage was needed. “Her contributions quickly proved invaluable, and she became a trusted asset to the entire department,” they said. 

Growing Through Teamwork, Mentorship, and Purpose 

One of the most meaningful lessons she has learned centers on teamwork and leadership. At Rockwall ISD, she says she has experienced a culture where support is constant, and collaboration is the norm. 

“Since being at Rockwall ISD, I have experienced an environment where no one is left behind, and everyone is willing to help, no matter how big or small the task,” she said. She noted that having leaders who stand up for their employees builds trust and creates a positive workplace environment. 

Weathers is intentional about her growth and encourages others entering the industry to do the same. “The best advice I can give to someone starting out is to always put yourself in the position you want to be in,” she said. That means communicating career goals and stepping up when opportunities arise.  

If there’s a feeling of uncertainty when positions become available, Weathers said it’s important to “volunteer and learn as much as you can,” that way when an opportunity presents itself, you’ll feel better prepared to tackle it head-on. 

“Every day won't be easy, but it will be worth it,” she said. 

Looking ahead, Weathers hopes to continue expanding her experience and eventually step into an assistant director role. Her focus remains on learning and embracing every opportunity that comes her way. 

She also credits the mentors who have helped shape her path, including Rockwall ISD Director Jennifer Gardella and Huffman ISD Director LaTedra Bailey, both of whom she said have provided encouragement, guidance, and opportunities for growth.