
















In honor of International Women’s Day 2023 on March 8th, the Women’s Inspiration Network (WIN) at National Express North America is showcasing the women behind this extraordinary company and allies who support us. This first-edition flipbook honors WIN’s mission to equalize access and opportunity for women at the company. We invited employees to tell us about themselves and share why they feel women can reach their limitless potential at National Express. The project has evolved from a few profiles of women in the U.S., to what will become a living global storybook over time. The idea was sparked by Boston Assistant General Manager Marcy Elliott – proof one person can make an incredible impact by taking initiative!
WIN is carrying on advocacy that began over a century ago at the first IWD rallies in Europe in 1911, when millions campaigned “for women’s rights to work, vote, be trained, hold public office and end discrimination.” This year’s IWD theme “Embrace Equity” reflects our journey together to enhance diversity, equity and inclusion.
We hope you enjoy reading the many reasons our colleagues feel we’re truly an employer of choice. Join us in making every day International Women’s Day by celebrating women making a difference in our company, lives and communities. Happy #IWD2023!
The Women’s Innovation Network Steering Committee
“Equity isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s a must-have. A focus on gender equity needs to be part of every society’s DNA. It’s not just something we say. It’s not just something we write about. It’s something we need to think about, know, value and embrace. Equity means creating an inclusive world.” –
"I joined National Express Transit in January 2021 as a driver. I've been promoted to a supervisor and look forward to continuing to advance in transit. This job has been a great opportunity to assist drivers and passengers and grow my career.“
“The question isn’t who’s going to let me; it’s who’s going to stop me.”
- Ayn Rand
Why this is a great place for women…
As a company we are aware of the inequities and are open to the discussion and actions necessary to level the field. National Express is empowering women to work with their peers and allies to become the solution and offering resources to plan and execute these changes.
Boston, MA
Durham, NC
Why this is a great place for women…
National Express strives to offer a broad diverse community embracing differences and inspiring dreamers to move forward.
Since the beginning of my relationship with National Express and Durham School Services, they have communicated and consistently shown equality for men and women within the workforce. It is one of the things that effected my decision to accept a job offer with National Express. Empathy and support radiates both laterally and vertically through the company and it is radically refreshing given the immense stigma and bias of the transportation world against minorities regarding women and LGBTQ+ members. Not only is the culture healthy but the workplace has a feeling of safeness that I personally have not experienced before.
Phoenix, AZ
There is opportunity for advancement and growth.
Why this is a great place for women…
The support here is beyond compare.
White Plains, NY
Why this is a great place for women…
Working at National Express I get to work alongside some of the most inspiring and hardworking women in the industry. When the opportunity came up to represent National Express at WTS and form the initial committee, it's no surprise that they jumped to volunteer time outside of their already hectic work life to give back.
First local chapter launch for Women’s Inspiration Network, a National Express employee resource group – March 2023
Why this is a great place for women…
A great business with a real sense of purpose - both in terms of affordable travel for everyone, but also in supporting, and driving, both a model shift in transportation, and also the move to ZEVs which will make a sustainable difference to our planet for generations to come.
London, England
“You're braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”
- A.A. Milne
Why this is a great place for women…
I like that there are programs for women to join to work together and uplift one another to allow opportunities for growth. Springfield, VA
Beach Park, IL
Why this is a great place for women…
When I first became a school bus driver, I only wanted a part time job until my child was old enough to go to school and then I would look for a "real job". I have been in my role as a General Manager for almost 8 years, moving up positions from driver to GM throughout my 18 years with the company. I have grown both personally and professionally with each new challenge that both I and my team face.
Boston, MA
Why this is a great place for women…
I like that we have a strong women's presence. Even though there is a huge male to female ratio, we have women in huge roles. We support one another. I love the environment and the community feel in the workplace.
National Express Transit’s CDT Customer Service Center location in Chicago, Illinois
Temple Hills, MD
Why this is a great place for women…
Opportunities are awarded based on skill and determination to learn.
White Plains, NY
Lisle, IL
Why this is a great place for women…
What I like about working at National Express that would inspire women considering jobs with us is all the opportunities!
Why this is a great place for women…
We're a great company for recognizing and developing women. I've seen female colleagues join as graduates or in a particular role, and within the time I've been with National Express, develop and get promoted into alternative roles. We're also very strong in supporting our female colleagues.
United Kingdom
“The greatest obstacle for me has been the voice in my head that I call my obnoxious roommate. I wish someone would invent a tape recorder that we could attach to our brains to record everything we tell ourselves. We would realize how important it is to stop this negative self - talk. It means pushing back against our obnoxious roommate with a dose of wisdom.”
- Arianna HuffingtonWhy this is a great place for women…
What I like about working at National Express is that it gives you opportunities to advance in the company and learn more. I also love helping people and being a positive influence in their lives. Durham, NC
White Plains, NY
Why this is a great place for women…
I believe National Express is fully dedicated to the safe transportation of all our clients, and I agree with their belief.
Springfield, VA
Operator
Why this is a great place for women…
Taking care of my customers.
Raleigh, NC
I'm surrounded by talented, accomplished, diverse women who work incredibly hard for our customers and inspire me every day. They're moms, friends, veterans, community volunteers and role models with amazing careers and personal stories. This is a place where allies are abundant, and everyone can achieve their full potential. It’s a very exciting place to shape the future of mobility.
Why this is a great place for women…
Bus Operator (former dispatcher) Kelsey Donaldson of WeDriveU, a National Express company, Earth Day 2022, South San Francisco, California
Why this is a great place for women…
I've worked with the same BD team for about 4 years and the continuity of our team has allowed us to build long-term relationships that are collaborative and inclusive. Everyone is seen as equals and I've always felt a part of the team regardless of my gender or identity.
Boston, MA
Why this is a great place for women…
National Express provides the opportunity for professional growth.
Why this is a great place for women…
NELLC is a great company for women for many reasons but one of the best is we have an opportunity to help and to raise up other women. We serve millions of female customers that rely on our services for very important mobility needs such as getting to work and getting to school (just to name a few). Those are critical and lifechanging activities; without transportation from National Express, some of our customers could not get to where they need to go. Women rely on National Express whether they are customers or team members. We have a very gender diverse team. Women represent a significant percentage of our drivers and CSC staff teams. Working at National Express gives women a chance to support each other internally as well and help women grow and advance in their professional careers.
Lisle, IL
“Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence.”
- Sheryl Sandberg
Why this is a great place for women…
Family-oriented and I like the communication. Greensboro, NC
Temple Hills, MD
Why this is a great place for women…
I like the fact that I was given a chance to exude my skills and intellect.
Burlingame, CA
Director of Safety
Why this is a great place for women…
This is an amazing place to work because of our Women's Inspiration Network.
Why this is a great place for women…
Lorton, VA
National Express is an equal opportunity company, that allows room for growth. My job gives me opportunities for training and technical skills to better my knowledge while working with National Express Transit. My role as a Road Supervisor gives me the opportunity to help others where they may need help in order to be successful with their job as well.
Women’s Inspiration Network Honoring Breast Cancer
Awareness Month Pink-Out and Domestic Violence Awareness
Month, October 2022, Durham, North Carolina
Why this is a great place for women…
I love that women are in higher jobs and always moving up in the company. All of my supervisors and managers are females, and it makes me proud to know that women are seen as equals to men in this field.
Northeast, US
Why this is a great place for women…
I have been working for National Express for seven years this November, and what I like most is every day, there is something new and exciting. The company makes work-life balance achievable. Throughout my tenure with the company, I have received constant training and education. I have also been given the tools needed to succeed in advancing into other careers within the company.
Why this is a great place for women…
I love love LOVE working at National Express. All employees are valued.
West Hollywood, CA
“Women must try to do things as men have tried. When they fail, their failure must be but a challenge to others.”
- Amelia Earhart
I see this opportunity working for National Express Transit as a way to contribute to an exciting, forward-thinking, fast-moving company and the community we serve. As a Safety Manager working for National Express, I love conquering new challenges, work that is cognitively demanding and isn’t monotonous but adds value. So, if you are up to the challenge and looking for a position that will utilize customer service, management, and analytical skills in exciting and innovative ways, National Express Transit is a great place for any woman to start your career. Temple Hills, MD
Boston, MA
Why this is a great place for women…
The tremendous support by both women and men within the company. So many people always willing to pitch in to brainstorm and help resolve the daily issues I encounter in my job, great teamwork!
New Orleans, LA
Director of Marketing
Why this is a great place for women…
The flexibility, the work life balance, and the recognition for the job I do.
I like working with "like-minded" people who go above and beyond. People who give the very best effort to make things go well.
Bellingham, MA
Our management team has a strong female presence and I think that's rare to see in transit. We work well together to get the job done and run a smooth operation.
Greensboro, NC
Why this is a great place for women…
I like that there are so many opportunities to grow and be successful in this organization.
Why this is a great place for women…
Simply, our growth.
Richmond, VA
“Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase.”
- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Why this is a great place for women…
I love the people I work with. They are the best.
Cupertino, CA
Why this is a great place for women…
I am able to be my true self while working with National Express. I have been able to have a successful and accelerated career. The creation and objectives of WIN demonstrate that we acknowledge we can do better to represent those that identify as female in the industry. We are fostering an environment where everybody can be their true self AND be successful.
Millbury, MA
Why this is a great place for women…
The ability to take care of your family and have a career.
I like that there are women in corporate positions working at National Express. Transportation I feel is seen as a male dominating industry. With more women working in National Express in corporate positions, I hope to see positive changes.
Fresno, CA
Why this is a great place for women…
National Express gives flexibility and there is always room to advance.
Durham, NC
Safety Trainer
Why this is a great place for women…
The ability for upward mobility.
Why this is a great place for women…
National Express has a great representation of women in leadership positions to learn from.
It's a great place to learn and grow!
Cupertino, CA
“Be the woman who fixes another woman's crown without telling the world that it was crooked.”
- Leslie Littlejohn
Why this is a great place for women…
Being surrounded by a strong network of professional women.
South Carolina, US
Safety Compliance ManagerMillbury, MA
Why this is a great place for women…
The opportunity for growth and advancement.
TEMPLE HILLS, MD
Why this is a great place for women…
I like that you can move up in the company and that there are a lot of women in leading roles here at National Express.
Why this is a great place for women…
The ability to fight the good fight each day, like my mom, who was my hero.
Springfield, VA
Why this is a great place for women…
While the transportation industry is typically male-dominant, I'm proud to work for an organization with strong female leadership throughout different departments and divisions. Lisle, IL
Why this is a great place for women…
National Express has a friendly atmosphere.
Why this is a great place for women…
National Express fosters a culture of genuine care for all staff and gives a platform for women to have their voices heard and an opportunity to grow within the company with access to professional development.
Riverside, CA
“Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we've been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.”
- President Barack Obama
Why this is a great place for women…
Opportunities for growth!
Temple Hills, MD
Philadelphia, PA
Why this is a great place for women…
Excellent leadership support.
Bellingham, MA
Why this is a great place for women…
There are equal opportunities for men and women. We are all treated equally.
Why this is a great place for women…
Camaraderie at National Express makes you feel like you are part of a wonderful team!
Grayslake, IL
Why this is a great place for women…
The support we receive from upper management and the possibility to grow, learn and achieve professional challenges. We have several females in the organization who support each other in different aspects, with respect and they always lead by example. Lorton, VA
Durham, NC
Why this is a great place for women…
National Express is big on technology and making sure everything we need to be successful is easily accessed. As an example, NE4U is very resourceful and user friendly.
Why this is a great place for women…
National Express makes a difference in the communities we serve. It is important to me to be part of a company with a purpose to improve the day-to-day lives of others.
Lisle, IL
“Don't limit yourself. Many people limit themselves to what they think they can do. You can go as far as your mind lets you. What you believe, remember, you can achieve.”
- Mary Kay Ash
Why this is a great place for women…
National Express allows us not to be fearful. New technology gives you more ability to navigate unfamiliar areas. Gives you independence.
Boston, MA
Why this is a great place for women…
How you can move up in the company should inspire women to work for National Express.
Durham, NC
Temple Hills, MD
Why this is a great place for women…
I enjoy my flexible schedule.
Oakland, CA
Why this is a great place for women…
The company's values align with my own; I admire the work ethic and collaborative spirit. We are also a very diverse population with 90% of our women having various ethnicities.
Why this is a great place for women…
There is respect for women here more than any other company I have worked for.
We are not dismissed in any way.
White Plains, NY
Why this is a great place for women…
Diversity and inclusion are part our strategic framework at National Express. WIN is actualization of our strategies, it focuses on opportunities for women to advance in our organization and in the industry. I applaud our National Express team for recognizing the contributions of women to its work efforts and also supporting and providing pathways for women.
Henderson, NV
Why this is a great place for women…
Dealing with the people of our community. We are treated equally as the men in office and are treated with respect.
I am proud to be a part of an organization with such a diverse workforce and believe that other women could benefit from working for a company where women represent 58% of employees - a solid foundation to build on in support of women's careers!
Lisle, IL
“It always seems impossible, until it's done.”
I have discovered the countless opportunities that are available to us as women and leaders working at National Express. Although I am new to joining this team, I can attest to the strong collaborative focus that the work culture of National Express has provided to all employees, encouraging equality and providing a platform where we can apply our ideas and talents impactfully in this always evolving industry.
Mountain View, CA
Temple Hills, MD
Why this is a great place for women…
What I like about working at National Express are the mentors (male & female) I have had over the course of 5+ years. Investing time and effort in employees’ development is the key to success for the individual and the company.
Richmond, VA
Why this is a great place for women…
I love meeting the different woman at the different locations and learning how important their roles are in the transportation company.
The opportunity to work with and inspire other employees and leaders throughout the network; as well as being inspired by others.
Iowa, US
I enjoy my flexible schedule, professional growth, and leadership support.
NC
Why this is a great place for women…
Why this is a great place for women…
I have only been working for National Expres for a month, however, I worked with several key female players as they transitioned the management contract over. They were all professional and pleasant to work with and cared about getting the transition completed.
Why this is a great place for women…
Working as the Operations/Fleet Manager at WeDriveU means inclusiveness where I feel valued and respected. Where my opinion matters, and a glass ceiling does not exist. As the first female fleet manager I am given every opportunity to grow and shine.
San Francisco Bay Area, CA
from leaders who inspire us
“A girl should be two things: who and what she wants.”
- Coco Chanel
I enjoy working for National Express for several reasons. We have a diverse group of professionals from drivers up to senior management. I feel valued for what I bring to the team. I’m encouraged by team members when I need it. I have the flexibility to attend to family matters and appointments. We work as a team through issues that arise. I feel we genuinely care for one another and listen to each other. Everyone is supportive and always willing to help if you need it. Boston, MA
London, England
CIO, National Express Group
Why this is a great place for women…
We are a warm and friendly business providing affordable, convenient and greener travel that makes a difference to people's lives every day.
Burlingame, CA
Why this is a great place for women…
Employees at this company, more than any other company that I have worked for, are valued based on their contributions and opinionsregardless if they identify as a female or male, a driver or a VP.
National Express looks at skills and growth, not gender. I am not afraid of not growing in this company because I'm a woman in a maledominant field. National Express notices achievements and hard-work.
Bismark, ND
Why this is a great place for women…
I enjoy interacting with management and customers. Knowing customers’ names and when they say thank you. Satisfaction of getting people to their destination on time. My goal is to get my CDL.
Boston, MA
Los Angeles, CA
Why this is a great place for women…
National Express checks all my boxes as a woman employee. Our company has sought out and executed on excellent opportunities for our female employees. We continue to grow in supporting women and the share the willingness and confidence in our female employees. I am thrilled about the more to come.
Why this is a great place for women…
I've been at National Express for 24 years now. I've had so many great opportunities for growth, advancement, exploring other options, and being involved with different projects. The Commercial Development Team is like a family, we truly care about each other, and always feel appreciated.
Kansas City, MO
"Women belong in all places where important decisions are being made."
- R uth Bader - Ginsburg
Latinos in Transit Leadership Academy Graduation Ceremony, Seattle, WA
We’re grateful to all who encourage and support our women
A person or organization that actively supports the rights of a minority or marginalized group without being a member of it.
To unite or form a connection or relation between
Our business thrives based on bringing together as many viewpoints as possible and our employees knowing they’re treated fairly and equitably. We strive to ensure parity and foster diversity of opinions and backgrounds to level the playing field, which translates into more opportunities for our team and tremendous value for our customers.
Why this is a great place for women…
National Express is honored and proud to have a team built of multi-talented women who come from and possess diverse facets of cultural backgrounds, experiences, nationalities, and knowledge. These team members come from all walks of life and have experienced and overcome countless insurmountable challenges that have helped propel them to become the successful individuals they are today. We would not be the vibrant, holistic company we are currently without them.
Lisle, IL
On the Commercial team and across our company, National Express has very strong, capable women contributing to our growth. The Women’s Inspiration Network is cultivating an environment that celebrates this diversity and enables us to relate to and understand customer needs.
Orlando, FL
Why this is a great place for women…
It’s great to be part of a company where diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives like our Women’s Inspiration Network flourish and celebrate the unique talents and backgrounds of everyone on the team.
Burlingame, CA
We strive to be an employer of choice in ways that work for our Commercial Development team. Much of our work is highly transactional with schedules determined by deadlines out of our control. We’ve emphasized flexibility and giving employees the freedom to work when and how it best works for them. This has been a great way to make sure we can set aside important time with our families – for example, blocking time for school bus drop-off, attending class activities or sporting events, or dinner time – and also shows trust in employees to accomplish what’s needed without micro-managing their day. The feedback has been very positive, and we’ve been able to build and retain a very strong team (that’s two-thirds women). I am proud of what we collectively have accomplished!
Why this is a great place for women…
Equality is a key component for National Express with women holding key critical roles throughout the organization. As a father of three, including two girls, I’m proud to be part of such a diverse business and hope that, one day, my daughters will have the opportunity to be employed by a company that possesses this culture.
Why this is a great place for women…
National Express’s organizational culture embraces equity and recognizes the importance of a diverse workplace. For my team to hire and help retain the best people, we leverage this workplace culture, both to improve our employee engagement and as a competitive advantage when recruiting new talent. We are also expanding our network of employee resource groups –like the Women’s Inspiration Network – as a way to develop employees and support communities in our workplace.
Burlingame, CA
Why this is a great place for women…
"I am a proud son of a strong woman who spent 43 years in the transportation industry. It brings me genuine happiness to see the next generation of women in transportation succeeding in our company."
Burlingame, CA
Why this is a great place for women…
Through my first year alone, I've seen so much change and energy focused on our people. In addition to the launch of WIN in late 2022, I also have insight into what's coming throughout 2023 and I am excited about the tools and resources that will be available to support personal development.
“People may not always remember exactly what you did, but they will always remember how you made them feel.”
- Maya Angelou
Why this is a great place for women…
There are many inspirational women who we work with that serve as wonderful roll models, I'm thinking of Amy Paolercio, Joanna Rustin and so many others.
Princeton, NJ
Why this is a great place for women…
I believe that every role in transportation is something that women could consider aspiring to. With a good mentor, advancement is available to persons who show promise and a good work ethic. I have encouraged and witnessed women advancing in responsible roles.
Boston, MA
Why this is a great place for women…
National Express is a great place to work as everyone has a common purpose, serving our customers, and so there is a great team spirit. As no one person can do everything, teamwork is essential in our business and a diverse team is highly valued. I think this is what makes National Express a great place to work for everyone.
Burlingame, CA
Why this is a great place for women…
The diversity of National Express General Managers ranges from various age groups, ethnic backgrounds, and genders.
Richmond, VA
Why this is a great place for women…
I think National Express has excellent female leaders that are looking to work with, and advance, the next group of leading females in the company.
Highland, VA
Manager
Why this is a great place for women…
Equal opportunity employment and advancement
Boston, MA
Why this is a great place for women…
The workforce is very diverse, with men and women at all levels. Equality rings true with National Express.
White Plains, NY
Why this is a great place for women…
National Express offers a very welcoming & progressive workplace environment! National Express has many talented women in leading roles in all areas of the organization. National Express strives to give all of their team members the opportunity to succeed & grow their career!
Bellingham, MA
“Think like a queen. A queen is not afraid to fail. Failure is another stepping stone to greatness.”
- Oprah Winfrey
Why this is a great place for women…
I saw a very petite woman, dwarfed by the driver's seat, driving an ENORMOUS coach (full disclosure: not National Express bus) through rush hour traffic and handling it like she was on a Sunday morning stroll. I think that would inspire women, and men, to see what they are capable of doing at National Express.
Taunton, MA
Why this is a great place for women…
National Express is a growing company that knows its people are the most important element of success. We actively look for opportunities to bring women to positions of authority and responsibility because they are a critical element in building a strong company.
Why this is a great place for women…
Overall work culture and diversity is what should inspire women looking to work with National Express
Philadelphia, PA
Why this is a great place for women…
I was raised by a single mother and I love how National Express is very supportive of women. I also love how many strong independent women there are throughout the company.
Bellingham, MA
Why this is a great place for women…
I have only worked at National Express for a short time, but so far I see a company that focuses on safety, customer service and employee work-life balance regardless of gender in this male-dominated industry. A person's strengths will be recognized and provide opportunities to advance.
Boston, MA
When I first entered the transportation industry, it was heavily male at the supervisory and management level, even our dispatch office was all male. As a result, I also saw a lot of stubbornness and a bit of a locker room mentality. I made it one of my first pushes as a manager to involve more female employees in higher positions. It worked unbelievably well, and both our dispatch office and management team benefited from a whole new set of ideas and experiences. To this day, CDT in Chicago has maintained a high level of female managers, supervisors, and dispatchers. I see that same belief echoed through our management team throughout Shuttle and Transit and I am excited to see the continuing benefits of a diverse workforce.
Why this is a great place for women…
Women are treated fairly and have the same opportunity for growth within the company.
Bellingham, MA
Why this is a great place for women…
National Express has a diverse group of individuals from all cultures to include gender. In addition, there is clear evidence that women are supported by the leadership team, by being afforded educational opportunities for growth and advancement within the company.
Temple Hills, MD
Why this is a great place for women…
Bellingham, MA Friendly work environment, everyone is like family.
from leaders who inspire us
“Don't think about making women fit the world — think about making the world fit women.”
- Gloria Steinem
The Women’s Inspiration Network steering committee is especially grateful to Marcy Elliott (Boston, MA) for suggesting the idea of a flipbook and volunteering her personal time to lead this project.
Fun fact: Marcy spearheaded WIN’s first local chapter!
The Women’s Inspiration Network (WIN) at National Express aims to equalize access and opportunity for women at the company - one route at a time. Our goal is to nurture a community of women and allies who share a passion for celebrating and promoting women’s advancement and achievement.