Philadelphia – SEPTA is shining a spotlight on one of its own, honoring Taneisha Moody, a train operator who has dedicated 22 years to keeping the city’s commuters moving. Moody says the women who came before her—conductors, engineers and seasoned operators—served as vital mentors, shaping her path from a new hire to a trusted leader on the Wawa/Media line.
Mentorship in Motion
Moody began her career with SEPTA as an entry‑level employee and quickly discovered the value of learning from experienced colleagues. “When I first stepped onto the platform, I saw women handling the most demanding situations with confidence and grace,” she recalls. “Their guidance taught me not only the technical skills of operating a train but also the importance of professionalism and compassion for riders.”
Those early relationships proved essential as Moody advanced to the role of train operator, a position that demands precision, safety awareness and strong communication with both passengers and dispatchers. She attributes her steady rise to the steady presence of female mentors who offered hands‑on training, answered questions, and modeled leadership in a traditionally male‑dominated field.
Women Leading on the Rails
SEPTA’s workforce includes a growing number of women in operational roles, reflecting broader efforts to diversify the transit system’s staff. According to the agency’s latest diversity report, women now make up roughly 30 % of train operators and engineers, a noticeable increase from a decade ago. Moody says this shift creates a positive feedback loop: “Seeing more women in these positions encourages the next generation to consider careers they might not have imagined before.”
Action News photographer Tom Kretschmer captured Moody on the job, riding alongside her as she navigated the Wawa/Media line. The images illustrate not only the technical expertise required to keep trains on schedule but also the camaraderie that develops among crew members.
Community Impact
Beyond the rails, Moody’s story resonates with Philadelphia’s broader community. Her experience underscores the importance of mentorship programs that empower individuals, especially women, to pursue skilled trades and public‑service careers. Local nonprofits such as Women in Transportation (WiT) have cited Moody’s example as a success story that motivates their outreach efforts.
SEPTA plans to expand its mentorship initiatives, pairing new hires with seasoned employees across all divisions. The agency hopes these relationships will continue to foster a supportive workplace culture while enhancing safety and reliability for riders.
Looking Ahead
As Moody looks to the future, she remains committed to paying the mentorship forward. “I want to be the mentor someone needed when I first started,” she says. “If I can help even one person feel confident on the job, that’s a win for all of us.”
SEPTA’s Spotlight series will continue to highlight the personal stories of its employees, showcasing the dedication and diverse talent that keep the city moving.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
