Think you know TCAT? There’s always more to learn about us!
Did you know that TCAT’s fleet of buses travels approximately 1.7 million miles each year and that in 2019 our annual ridership was just over 4.2 million? Our fleet of about 51 buses is comprised mostly of 40-foot long diesel buses, but in May 2021 we acquired 7 electric buses. You have probably seen these distinctive and very cool buses around town!
Did you know that it is possible to get to many of Ithaca and Tompkins County’s parks and outdoor recreation areas on a TCAT bus? Learn more about “TCAT to Trails” and download the specially designed map that will help you navigate your way to outdoor fun using sustainable, low-cost transportation. Later this Spring, you will save even more when TCAT launches its new FreeRyde fare program for youth.
Did you know that TCAT has several other reduced fare or additional service programs? Active duty military personnel, ROTC students, and children age five and younger (accompanied by a responsible adult) ride at no-cost anytime. Senior Citizens, Medicare cardholders, persons with disabilities, and those currently receiving SSI, SSD, or disabled veterans’ benefits are eligible to pay half-fare on the TCAT bus.
Additionally, certain individuals may be eligible for complementary paratransit – a specialized, door-to-door transport service for people who are not able to ride the fixed-route transit system because of a disability. Visit our Fixed Route Accessibility page for more information about TCAT services for individuals of all abilities.
Of course, when you think of TCAT, our Bus Operators come to mind first. Our Operators are the “front line” – the face of TCAT. As such, they bring excellent customer service and a positive attitude to work every day in order to provide the best experience possible for our Riders.
“My first thought was “I don’t want to drive a bus! Why would I want to drive a bus?” says Desiree Johnson during her conversation on WRFI radio’s podcast “This Is Ithaca.” Seven and a half years later, Desiree is still enjoying her work as a Bus Operator. Listen to Desiree’s story here as she shares her experience of the aspects she loves as well as the challenges of being an Operator.
Agnes Beck, a TCAT Bus Operator for five years, says “I never thought that one day I would be driving a bus.” A friend suggested that driving a TCAT bus would be a great job for her and she applied. She says, “In the interview, I was asked ‘Why TCAT?’ and I said ‘Because I love people and I love driving.’” Hear the rest of Agnes’ story here.
There is as much going on behind the scenes at TCAT as there is on the road! Safety is our number one priority and our Maintenance and Mechanics teams work diligently to keep our fleet of buses clean and operating safely every day. If you are – or know of – a Diesel Mechanic who would like to play a significant role in ensuring the safety and success of TCAT every day, now is the time to apply!
The administrative staff at TCAT keep all of “the parts” running smoothly and play a huge role in our success! From IT to Logistics to Accounting to Human Resources – just to name a few! – the contributions of each individual every day helps to keep our doors open. Check out our Careers page to learn about our current administrative vacancies and submit your application.
TCAT recognizes that our employees are the key to fulfilling our community-driven mission and vision. We offer competitive pay, outstanding benefits, progressive training, paid time off, and career growth opportunities.
Click here to watch A thank you to TCAT employees from GM Scot Vanderpool
If you would like to contribute to the environmental, economic, and overall social health of our community and to be part of a winning team, visit our website and submit your application or resume at https://tcatbus.com/careers.
TCAT, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.
