Staying with one company for more than 25 years might sound rare in today’s job market—but at Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT), it’s a testament to something bigger. It speaks to a culture where people grow, serve, lead, and build lasting connections. Where opportunities aren’t just available—they’re encouraged. Where coworkers become extended family. And where dedication is not only recognized, but rewarded.
Across departments—from the planning office to the driver’s seat—these women have dedicated their careers to moving Pittsburgh forward. They’ve seen the organization evolve from Port Authority of Allegheny County to PRT, and in many ways, they’ve grown right alongside it.
“I started at Port Authority at 22 years old, which basically means I grew up with this company,” says Doria Schuck, who now works in Facilities & Rail Maintenance. “The culture here has always been a family to me, and I believe that was the biggest reason I stayed so long.”
For Amy Giammanco, Assistant Director of Employment and Development, longevity has come with continual growth: “Every challenge has been a chance to learn and contribute... I’ve approached each one with a mindset of continuous improvement.”
The stories in this listicle echo that same theme: persistence, pride, and purpose. Whether it's Darcy Cleaver, who rose from an entry-level Treasury position to Deputy Chief Planning Officer, or Michelle Edwards, a bus operator and lead mentor, these women have found ways to grow their careers while serving Pittsburgh’s communities every day.
They speak of the impact they've made—of safely transporting passengers, mentoring colleagues, supporting families, and, above all, showing up with heart. “Helping others has always been instilled in me,” says Edwards. “Knowing I am getting people to their jobs, school, or appointments is what I am here to do.”
These women have gained much in return: personal growth, professional development, financial stability, and—above all—deep connections. “I’ve connected with so many amazing people in my workplace and in our community, many of whom I now call friends,” says Darlana Jordan. And for Monica Staples, it goes even further: “I call PRT my second family.”
What follows are the reflections of nine remarkable women who have each dedicated 25 years or more to PRT. Their paths may differ, but the pride in their work—and their enduring impact—is something they all share.
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One of InHerSight’s Best Companies to Work For, Pittsburgh Regional Transit continues to shine the light on opportunities for women in the male-dominated transit industry. While their top metrics include The People You Work With and Wellness Initiatives, it’s their score for Learning Opportunities—their highest rated metric—that makes PRT remarkable. Here, you can learn on the job and grow your career alongside people who want you to thrive. Discover your next career steps at PRT now.
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9 women who’ve spent 25+ years moving Pittsburgh forward
“I am a dedicated and self-motivated public transportation professional with over 30 years of experience. I started my career at Port Authority in 1994, beginning in an entry-level position within the Treasury Department. Throughout my journey, I have consistently focused on working hard to improve the rider experience and serve the community. My career in transportation has provided numerous opportunities for growth and development. Currently, I am proud to serve as the Deputy Chief Planning Officer.” —Darcy L. Cleaver, Deputy Chief Planning Officer, 30+ years of service
“Helping others has always been instilled in me. Knowing I am getting people to their jobs, school, or appointments is what I am here to do. Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) has excellent opportunities for professional development as well. In my time here, this job has allowed me to grow and take on leadership roles at my division as the lead mentor for my coworkers and as the liaison for the United Way campaign (company-wide). The pay and benefits are another reason why I have put my time in here. There aren't too many companies I know of that you can make decent money and not have to have a college degree...just a lot of patience!” —Michelle Edwards, Professional Operator, 25+ years of service
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to grow within Pittsburgh Regional Transit. A key reason I’ve been able to thrive here is my willingness to take on projects and assignments as opportunities for growth. Every challenge has been a chance to learn and contribute, and I’ve approached each one with a mindset of continuous improvement.
I am also incredibly thankful for the amazing mentors I’ve had along the way. Their guidance, support, and wisdom have been invaluable to my development and career growth. They’ve helped me navigate challenges, refine my skills, and always encouraged me to push beyond my limits. Their influence has played a significant role in shaping my career, and I am grateful for their belief in me.
As I reflect on my journey here, I’m excited for what lies ahead.” —Amy Giammanco Assistant Director, Employment and Development, 35+ years of service
“I started at Port Authority in January 1999. I had been at my previous job for 11 years and never planned on becoming a bus driver. However, I ended up filling out an extra application a family member had and—believe it !—I got a call for an interview and the rest is now history! I am so grateful for the Port Authority (now PRT) for giving me the opportunity to be a transit operator and thankful for all the women before me who helped pave the way! Looking forward to retirement!” —Vanessa Gray, Bus Operator, 25+ years of service
“I have been a bus operator at the East Liberty Division for 25 years, starting my career with PRT as a single mom. I didn’t realize at the time, but being a bus operator has opened so many doors for me. I have connected with so many amazing people in my workplace and in our community, many of whom I now call friends. It gives me much delight to help all my passengers get to and from their destinations safely and comfortably.” —Darlana Jordan, Professional Operator, 25 years of service
“I started at Port Authority at 22 years old, which basically means I grew up with this company. The culture here has always been a family to me, and I believe that was the biggest reason I stayed so long. I started in Administrative Services as a clerk typist (now titled relief clerk) and that job made me into the administrator I am today. Port Authority has always afforded me the opportunity to build my positions in different ways that changed the job description in a more thorough way. With the freedom of creativity here, it helps you grow and develop your skills. That position along with my coworkers taught me so many things that I came to be very grateful for because in that position is where my journey began. Even with retirement on the horizon it is hard to imagine not coming here and seeing my family daily.” —Doria Schuck, Facilities & Rail Maintenance Clerk, 25+ years of service
“I started my job as a currency unfolder at the age of 21. I came to PRT because I was young and wanted to work somewhere I could learn and grow. PRT gave me the opportunity for the advancement and growth I was seeking. I have held many positions in my time here from mail courier, customer service rep, document specialist, and finally to the position I currently hold. I have been with the Police Department for over 20 years now. I stayed for the benefits, but I honestly love what I do. Every day I am being challenged in a new way. PRT has also allowed me to support and raise my family. Additionally, many of the people I have met along the way have become like family to me. Although I look forward to my retirement next year, I will miss seeing all the people who have become an integral part of my life.” —Jennifer Seeberger, Crime Information Clerk, 25+ years of service
“I can’t believe that I’ve been here for over 25 years and retirement is fast approaching. I’ve been blessed to have met so many people during my time at Port Authority and now Pittsburgh Regional Transit. I can honestly say that I still enjoy driving my bus and coming in contact with classmates, coworkers from other divisions, and, my favorite of course, my passengers. One thing that truly amazes me is when I encounter people at the grocery store, the mall, or driving my bus, someone will come up to me and say, ‘you’re my favorite bus driver’ or ‘I remember when I used to ride your bus.’ When you’re recognized for doing something you truly enjoy, it really is not like working at all.
My job has allowed me and my family to do wonderful things and go to some wonderful places. The opportunity for advancement is tremendous. I’m my own boss, I see the change of seasons, and watch passengers grow, strive, and become better people. I call PRT my second family.
I’ve been fortunate to work alongside my husband, Montel Staples, who is a Route Foreman; and my daughters Lloydrea Stojakovic, a driver out of Ross (10), and Sekerra Staples from West Mifflin (46). Thanks to everyone who has helped and molded me to become someone who is very humbled and thankful during my time here at PRT. I want to give all the glory to my God for allowing me to be put in a position where I can do His work that He has allowed.” —Monica Staples, Bus Operator, 25+ years of service
“I started in September 1998. My employment evolution started when the company was PAT. Throughout the years, we have grown our transportation to our current name Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT). My personal growth evolved as well as my decision to remain as a bus operator was for my family. When I started, my daughter was 3 years old and now she is 28 years old in law school accredited as the ninth in the country, Northwestern University. I had my son in 2001 and now he is excelling in the United States Armed Forces. During all my years at PRT, my job has allowed me to treat all of our passengers with respect and kindness. My schedule and overtime has allowed me to afford a better way of life.” —Renee White, Bus Operator, 25+ Years
