From Track Laborer to Chief Transportation Officer: The Rise of Leroy Jones

"Chaos, Catastrophe, Gridlock..."

Those were some of the words Leroy Jones used to describe a world without public transportation.

"It would just be terrible. I can't even think about it," said Jones, who was just 21 years old when he started at Metro as a Track Laborer, now known as Track Maintenance Technician.

"During my undergrad, I worked nights and went to school during the day. I studied after school and tried to sneak in some sleep before going to work," said Jones. As a track laborer, he learned the importance of maintaining high-quality track maintenance to ensure a safe ride for rail operators and customers daily. His dedication and hard work have come full circle as he recently assumed the role of Chief Transportation Officer at Metro.

"Never did I think I would have the opportunity to lead the organization I once depended on day to day. I've been fortunate to see a lot of the agency," said Jones.

He held positions in the Office of Track and Structures, including frontline supervisor, acting maintenance manager, acting assistant superintendent, superintendent, assistant general superintendent, and project manager for capital delivery. In Facilities Maintenance, he served as assistant director and director, and in Bus Transportation, as vice president of bus transportation before becoming senior vice president of bus services in November 2022, and now Chief Transportation Officer effective Thursday, May 2, 2024, overseeing 4,200 employees across bus and rail, including more than 2,600 bus and over 600 train operators.

“I just hope that I'm an example for others, that if you work hard, believe in yourself, surround yourself with positive people, it is possible regardless of your background."

With this mindset, Jones graduated from Bowie State University with a degree in Business Administration in 2007, and later pursued a Master's degree in public administration at Central Michigan University, graduating in 2011. He kept his childhood memories alive when taking Metrobus, which ultimately influenced how he led his division, aiming to provide service for all, especially those in underserved communities.

"The majority of our Metrobus customers are people of color; the average bus rider makes less than $35,000 a year. We are part of providing an equitable transportation system. Without Metro, people wouldn’t have access to various locations throughout the DMV, like schools, jobs, grocery stores, doctor's appointments, and other essential places," said Jones.

This is why he is constantly strategizing to ensure Metrobus customers have a great experience. Just last November, Metro introduced two 60-foot electric buses, offering zero-emissions, improved air quality, and new amenities like digital passenger information screens and USB charging ports. These buses currently operate on the W4 line from Anacostia Metro Station to Deanwood Metro Station. Looking ahead, Metro plans to introduce ten 40-foot electric buses, with five coming in the first half of next year and the remaining five in 2026. Jones envisions procuring around 300 electric buses over the next five years.

"I'm optimistic about our future and the opportunities to enhance the customer experience in our region. Taking public transportation is ten times safer per mile than traveling by automobile, reducing road congestion, and promoting a greener, more efficient planet for all," Jones stated.

He added that while Metro faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, bus saw fewer impacts than rail. “Folks that needed to get to work were really utilizing the bus," said Jones.

Since then, ridership continues to grow. According to Jones, from July 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, Metro garnered over 84 million Metrobus customers.

Many new initiatives have contributed to this surge, such as Metrobus customers being able to board through the rear door. In December 2023, Metro also implemented 24/7 bus service in DC on 14 routes. Last June, Metro implemented courtesy stops, where bus operators allow customers to enjoy a safe and secure drop-off between 9 pm and 5 am by informing the bus operator of their desired stop location. "We're doing everything we can to improve the customer experience and drive ridership while ensuring we are fully staffed," Jones said, adding that they are fully staffed in bus operators, but admitted they are about 58 mechanics short due to a nationwide shortage.

While actively trying to fill the gap, what keeps Jones going is looking back at memorable moments he’s been involved in at Metro. For instance, an event in early March where Metro partnered with Make-A-Wish Mid Atlantic to fulfill a 10-year-old boy's wish to ride a Metrobus. "It was very special to me because, as a parent, I have a six-year-old. 

Another memorable moment was his involvement in the 2009 inauguration of former President Barack Obama.

"That event meant a lot to me personally as a Black man and being part of the Metro leadership team that helped provide 1.544 million rides between bus, rail, and MetroAccess that day."

But nothing tops the opportunity to talk to new hires that come on board through bus operator graduation.

"I love seeing them get their certificates and transition to the start of their career. For me, having the opportunity to coach, develop, and mentor others to ensure that the same support I received is given back to the younger generation."

As Jones reflects on his 24 years at Metro, he is in awe of how far he's come and the opportunities he seized. "It's a tough job, but it's rewarding to give back to the community. Many people who work at Metro grew up here, especially those on the front line. It's great to give back to the region where you grew up. I'm living proof."