Chelsea Ramos
Technical Specialist in the Environmental, Energy, & Sustainability (EE&S) Department at NJ Transit
Hi! My name is Chelsea Ramos, I am currently a Technical Specialist within the Environment, Energy, & Sustainability (EE&S) Department within NJ TRANSIT. I have worked for NJ Transit for approximately 7 years and my experiences have been very rewarding both personally and professionally. By education, I am an Environmental Scientist, having received both my Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Environmental Science from the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT). In addition, I am a 2-year member of YPT-NYC and currently hold the position of Vice-Chair of College Outreach for the Women Transportation Seminar (WTS) NJ Chapter.
1. What is your favorite YPT-NYC event and why?
My favorite YPT-NYC events are the facility tours and scavenger hunts. These events are great because they provide both an educational outlet while also building social connections with other members of YPT-NYC. Also, as a New Jerseyan, the scavenger hunts help me to explore, learn, and travel around NYC a lot better.
2. If you could snap your fingers and make one change to regional transportation, what would it be?
One change that I would make to regional transportation is relieving high traffic areas. Traffic is never fun to experience especially when you are heading to work or an important events. It is also difficult to pinpoint and remove traffic within an area because it often causes traffic in another location. If more direct pathways, public transportation, and highways are better utilized that may be able to provide some type of relief. But until then, I will continue to schedule extra travel time between destinations.
3. What sparked your passion to work in the transportation industry?
My passion within the transportation industry was sparked once I realized how diverse this field really is Individuals from all different educational and ethnic backgrounds have found a home within the transportation field. I have encountered individuals whom are engineers, scientists, lawyers, mechanics, planners, etc. whom all found a career within the transportation industry. To make this industry successful, it requires the collective input of many different backgrounds, experiences, and expertise to continue to be able to move daily.
4. What are you working on that you are most excited by?
Currently, I am working on two extensive railroad bridge replacement projects. These types of projects are always engaging because of the far reach of the project and the collaboration with other transit agencies. Specifically, within these projects I have been able to work with individuals from Conrail and Amtrak to help support the coordination of these projects. Also, as an environmental scientist, each project is unique within their permitting, environmental impacts, and mitigation techniques. These projects have allowed me to work with some experienced engineers, scientists, and designers from various levels and corporations whom broaden my understanding of different tasks. As a side perk, I get to make some new friends outside of my organization!
5. What career advice would you give to other YPTs interested in your career path?
I would say to use every opportunity as a learning experience. Starting off within a position or transitioning to a new position very task, opportunity, or assignment should be looked at as a productive action. Even small tasks such as drafting an email or letter for a supervisor should be constructive and build on your personal skills.
6. What famous celebrity do you think should be given the opportunity to voice a NYCT Subway Announcement?
Jennifer Lopez! Jennifer is a native Bronx resident and she often took the NYCT subway to get to her gigs and shows around the City. It would be awesome to have her say an announcement for the system!
YPT-NYC 