Transit Systems takes next generation students on board zero emission journey

Friday 16 September 2022

Transit Systems continues to set sustainability benchmarks in the zero emission bus industry, now also ensuring the next generation are well prepared to keep driving innovation - after hosting over a dozen students and teachers through their most innovative depot.

The Transit Systems NSW team hosted a group of students, TAFE teachers and apprentices at their Leichhardt Depot for a tour, with a particular focus on the Zero Emission Buses and the related charging infrastructure.

The tour was led by Rob Rachwal NSW Fleet and Facilities Manager, who said students and teachers were enthusiastic about all the zero emission infrastructure, information, and potential.

“We had lots of insightful questions and interactions throughout the tour – it was exciting to see the level of engagement and interest. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the next generation come through, and share how far we have come, and hopefully inspire them to see how far we can go together in the future!” he said.

To conclude the visit, the group heard from Jasmine Brophy, who is in the second year of her Heavy Vehicle Diesel Mechanic Apprenticeship with Transit Systems NSW.

Jasmine, who commenced her apprenticeship with no mechanic experience at all, provided the group with valuable insight into the apprenticeship program and answered specific questions from those in the early stages of their career.

Transit Systems General Manager of Innovation, Fleet and Business Intelligence Mark Peters said the youthful energy was pleasing to see.

“Touring a bus depot has certainly changed from what it was even 5 years ago! It was inspiring to see the interest and interaction from the students that attended the tour.

“It’s an exciting time in public transport, transitioning to lower or zero emission buses, researching and exploring the data from trials, managing people and changing processes across the depot and of course the fleet itself, so there is a lot to see and experience onsite.

“The possibilities and capabilities of electric and hydrogen are exciting, and it was a pleasure to have the students through the largest depot of its kind in Australia, knowing we are taking another step in helping to deliver a more sustainable transport solution by encouraging our next generation to think outside the square,” he said.

Transit Systems regularly works with community groups to share positive public transport experiences, which has also included visits from Guide Dogs Australia and dog trainers.