Mayor Daniela Levine Cava Celebrates Graduation of 51 New Miami-Dade Transit Operators

Miami-Dade County celebrated a significant milestone on July 29, 2025, as 51 new bus operators graduated from the Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW) training program. The event, marked by enthusiasm and applause, highlighted the hard work and dedication of the trainees who completed a rigorous 10-week program.

Mayor Daniella Levine Cava addressed the graduates, expressing her pride in their achievements and the vital role they will play in the community. She emphasized the importance of public transit, stating that these new operators are essential to the county's mobility and economy. "You are a lifeline for so many," she remarked, acknowledging the critical services they provide to residents for jobs, healthcare, and education.

The mayor also noted the growth of Miami-Dade's transit system, which has risen from the fifteenth to the tenth largest in the United States since the pandemic. She highlighted the county's commitment to investing in its workforce, including increased salaries and training support for new operators.

The graduation ceremony featured heartfelt speeches from instructors and fellow trainees, celebrating the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the graduates. One trainee, Shaniqua Riley, reflected on the challenges faced during their journey, while another, Salden Peraton, shared a poem emphasizing perseverance.

As the new operators prepare to begin their careers on August 4, the community looks forward to the positive impact they will have on Miami-Dade's public transportation system. This graduation not only marks a personal achievement for the trainees but also signifies a step forward in enhancing the county's transit services.