Paratransit Manager's Skills, Qualifications, and Needs

This synthesis documents current requirements for being a paratransit manager and actual experiences of current paratransit managers. Transit managers, policy makers, educators, trainers, human resource directors, and stakeholders, as well as current and future paratransit professionals, will find the results valuable in determining action steps needed to enhance the profession and paratransit service delivery. In addition, it provides information from general managers, chief operating officers, and paratransit advisory committees about college degrees desired, and offers guidance to aspiring paratransit managers. Technology proficiency and knowledge of the Americans with Disabilities Act were identified as the most needed skills. A college education was recommended by most professionals, with business management identified as the most desirable area of study. However, aside from this, successes in the field were attributed to specifics such as ethics, customer relations, communications, management and supervision, and sensitivity.