CTtransit Celebrates the Heartbeat That Moves Us

For CTtransit, Hartford, CT, one day simply was not enough to celebrate the incredible employees who keep Connecticut communities moving. This year, CTtransit celebrated National Transit Employee Appreciation Day (NTEAD—see related story), officially observed on March 18, with a full week of gratitude across the Hartford, New Haven, and Stamford divisions. With 1,400+ dedicated professionals in operations, maintenance, and administration, the organization had one goal in mind: to make every employee feel valued and appreciated.

This year’s music inspired theme—You are the heartbeat that MOVES us—struck a chord across the agency, reinforcing the belief that passion and commitment set the tempo for everything the organization accomplishes.

“Our people are the heartbeat of this organization,” said General Manager Thomas E. Stringer, Jr. “Without their dedication, professionalism, and hard work, CTtransit would not be what it is today. This week is all about celebrating them.”

From March 17 through March 21, CTtransit rolled out the red carpet with a series of celebrations across Connecticut. The “headliner” gift for this year’s festivity was decided thoughtfully, with professional drivers in mind. Throughout the year, many drivers kindly requested that the organization purchase “sling bags” to support their work on the road—and CTtransit took note. That is why CTtransit-inspired blue sling bags were bought and distributed throughout National Transit Employee Appreciation Week. This was one request that the organization was thrilled to fulfill.

Inside each bag was a custom-designed thank-you card, signed by the entire executive leadership team. But wait, there’s more! Each sling bag also contained a special coupon to redeem a new CTtransit uniform hat, available to all employees.

Of course, no celebration is complete without music to lift the spirit. That is why at popular gathering spots across all three divisions, employees were met with a “dance floor” complete with a disco photo backdrop, and props such as inflatable instruments, fake mustaches, and “groovy” signage. Whether employees struck a pose, danced with colleagues, or received their gifts—the energy was high, and the appreciation was on full display.

Let us not forget the food! Countless trays of cookies, brownies, pastries, and bags of CTtransit’s favorite snack—popcorn—were available for all, ensuring that bellies were as full as hearts.

Finally, to ensure the appreciation is seen and felt all year long, specially designed employee appreciation banners were displayed at each division featuring team members from a variety of departments throughout the company. These banners were hung at high-traffic locations, proudly spotlighting the people who make public transportation possible 365 days a year.

From the drivers who safely transport valued customers, to the maintenance teams who keep the fleet of buses running, to the administrative staff who support daily operations, every role matters—that is what CTtransit holds true. To each employee throughout each of the Hartford, New Haven, and Stamford divisions, the message sent was received at full volume, “Thank you for making every ride sing. We appreciate you today and every day!”