May 22, 2007
Hillsboro resident heads TriMet Operations
TriMet has hired Stephen Banta as its new Executive Director of Operations. Banta will have direct responsibility for the Operations division; System Safety and Security; Accessible Transportation; Labor Relations; Planning and Development.
"Steve brings to TriMet a broad transit background and strong leadership skills," said TriMet General Manager Fred Hansen. "He shares TriMet’s commitment to bringing out the best in employees by creating a work environment where they can excel."
Mr. Banta joins TriMet with more than 20 years of experience in public transit. Most recently, he was chief operations officer for the Port Authority of Allegheny County in Pittsburgh, Pa. In this position he directed all aspects of bus and light rail operations and maintenance. This included facilities maintenance, technical support, operations safety, and service planning and schedules.
He began his career in transit at San Diego Trolley, after four years of service in the US Navy. He started in 1986 repairing railcars and moved into operations management in 1989. In addition, he has worked in various capacities for public transit agencies in Washington D.C., Los Angeles and Dallas. Mr. Banta has participated on the APTA Rail Rodeo Committee and is currently serving on APTA's Rail Transit Standards Task Force and the Conference Program Planning Committee.
Mr. Banta said he was attracted to the Portland region by the opportunity to work in one of the most successful and progressive transit systems in the U.S.