In transportation, an industry that quite literally keeps communities moving, representation in leadership is not just symbolic; it’s essential. Black History Month invites us to reflect not only on where we’ve been, but where we’re going and who gets to help lead the way.  

I’ve spent over two decades in school transportation. I didn’t begin my career in transportation behind a desk; instead, I started as a bus monitor. I desired to become a bus driver, learning the rhythm of routes, the needs of students, and the responsibility that comes with safely transporting students every day.  

While working as a bus driver, I completed my associate’s degree in social work. Eventually, I became a route supervisor during the pandemic. Each step in transporting students taught me something different — not just about the job, but also about people, leadership, and the power of being seen. Representation is a shared responsibility. 

When people see leaders who look like them, who come from similar backgrounds, something powerful happens. It creates possibilities. Representation sends a clear message: You belong here. Your voice matters. Your growth is possible.  

When Leadership Reflects the Team 

School transportation is made up of specialists, drivers, monitors, and mechanics who all come from diverse backgrounds. Yet leadership roles don’t always reflect that same diversity in many organizations. When leaders lack diverse experience from employees, gaps can form between policy and reality. Representation helps close those gaps.  

As a supervisor, I’ve seen how trust changes when employees feel understood. When someone knows you’ve walked the same path they’re on, conversations become more honest. Challenges get addressed sooner; employee morale improves. Leadership stops feeling distant, and staff feel leaders are more relatable.  

When leadership reflects the team, it also strengthens accountability. Leaders become advocates, not just administrators. They push for fair treatment, proper resources, and professional development because they understand how much those things matter.  

Black History Month is a reminder that progress often comes from perseverance. In our lives, many of us were told either directly or indirectly that certain positions weren’t meant for us. Yet history shows that barriers are meant to be challenged. Honoring that history means more than reflection; it means creating pathways for advancement and ensuring leadership includes diverse voices.  

Owning Your Path, Lifting Others Along the Way 

Advancing your career will require you to advocate for yourself and let leadership know you’re interested in growth. Too often, talented individuals are overlooked simply because their aspirations aren’t known.   

My transportation journey wasn’t just about career advancement; it was about responsibility. Responsibility to lead with integrity, to uplift others, and to show what’s possible. Representation in transportation leadership matters because people matter. When leadership reflects the communities it serves, everyone, including employees, students, and the entire system as a whole benefits.  

Because when leadership reflects real experience, real progress follows. 

About the Author: Sharnette Young began her student transportation career in Indianapolis in 2003, earning her Class B CDL in 2004. She joined Henry County Schools in 2017, where she advanced from bus driver to route supervisor. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, learning new things, and relaxing at home.

^{This article was authored and edited according to School Bus Fleet editorial standards and style. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect that of SBF or Bobit Business Media.}