March 28 2024
Who are you, where do you work and what do you do?
I’m Stacey Blake, Driver Support Supervisor at Walworth Depot.
How did you get to where you are today?
I started my career in the London Bus Industry in 2017 as a PCV
holder. I then progressed to be a mentor to other drivers and was appointed Depot Hello London Champion. This allowed me to showcase my communication skills with my colleagues daily about improving the service for our customers.
Due to my determination, dedication and willingness, I was given the responsibility of being one of the trainers for the new fleet of Caetano buses at our Depot. This made me realise my potential and how I could contribute to the industry. I then progressed to becoming a Relief Driver Support Supervisor and shortly afterwards got the role permanently when it became available. So far so good...
Did you experience any challenges getting to where you are today?
YES! (many) Most challenging for me was having to train drivers from different cultural background where females are not allowed to have a leading role. Having to enforce safety procedures and give instructions was
not received well at times.
How did you overcome these challenges?
I overcame these challenges with the support of the brilliant team I work with. Also, I don’t take anything personal as I have a role to do, and the show must go on.
What do you love about the bus sector?
What I like most about the sector is that it allows me to be my true self whilst doing a role I enjoy. I get to work with a diverse group of people which varies from different age groups as well. I like that, as a woman, I stand out in a male-dominated environment.
What does a typical day look like?
A typical day for me would be welcoming new starters to the depot. For every new trainee, I like to take the time to find out about their journey to get to this stage where they are now and also what their previous employment was. I then proceed to carrying out their depot induction which could be covering health and safety procedures to ordering uniforms (their favourite), completing log cards, VCRs, the list goes on but basically getting them ready for service.
Other days we could be doing on-the-road skills practising, which includes route learning, curtailments, type training on our fleet of buses. Overall, my days are spent offering various types of support to drivers who are still on probation.
What advice would you give to women thinking about a career in the bus sector?
I would advise them to never underestimate their capabilities because it’s a rewarding career to be proud of. Go for it because it’s the best decision I ever made.
What has been your career highlight in bus so far?
My career highlight would have to be when I was featured in an advert by TfL about stopping hate crime.
What three things could be done to improve the industry for women?
1. I would love to see more flexibility for women with younger children.
2. Better toilet facilities.
3. To provide more training programmes to support women’s professional development throughout the business.
Anything else you would like to share?
If I can do it, anyone can!
If you would like to join the Transport UK London Bus team, please see our latest vacancies.
