Prose was recently featured in Transit Tomorrow and College Recruiter, where Justin Belmont, CEO & Founder, shared insights on the intersection of transit innovation and talent development. From cutting-edge academic research to smart hiring strategies, transportation is evolving on multiple fronts. The companies that adapt quickly will lead the way.
Here’s what Justin had to say:
Leverage university research partnerships to unlock next-gen transit solutions
Topic: MIT optimizes subway schedules with AI
Quote: "Universities are basically R&D (research and development) labs for the future of transit. They’ve got the brains, the tech, and the freedom to test wild ideas that private companies might not risk on their own. One killer example? MIT teamed up with Boston’s MBTA to analyze subway crowding and optimize train schedules using AI. The result? Faster commutes, fewer bottlenecks, and a system that actually adapts to real-time demand instead of just guessing.
These partnerships work because universities bring fresh thinking, and transit agencies bring real-world data. Put them together, and you get smarter, faster, and more efficient transit solutions."
You can read the full article here.
Simplify hiring processes to attract top early-career transportation talent
Topic: Simplify the application process
Quote: "In my experience with transportation clients, I’d recommend simplifying the application process—nobody wants to jump through 15 hoops for an entry-level job. Early-career candidates are often new to the hiring grind, so clear, straightforward steps make a big difference. Focus on potential over perfect experience: look for traits like reliability, adaptability, and a strong work ethic. And if you really want to stand out, offer on-the-job training or mentorship. A little investment in development shows you’re serious about building careers, not just filling roles—and that attracts top-notch talent."
You can read the full article here.
Why transit innovation and talent development go hand-in-hand
A smarter transportation system isn’t just about better infrastructure, it’s about people. The fusion of academic innovation and thoughtful workforce planning ensures that:
- Breakthroughs from university research are tested and implemented in the real world
- Early-career professionals are equipped and motivated to keep the system evolving
- Public agencies and private companies stay future-ready with tech-forward, people-centered solutions
Bonus feature: A new era of transit is being built through one hire and one breakthrough at a time
Transformation in transit doesn’t happen overnight. It’s the product of countless decisions, innovations, and investments made by individuals and institutions alike. Academic programs that prioritize real-world problem-solving and employers that champion experimentation are laying the groundwork for a smarter, more mobile future. When schools provide innovation and employers provide opportunity, the results include:
- Cleaner, faster, and safer mobility: From AI-powered traffic systems to electric fleets and autonomous last-mile delivery, today’s breakthroughs in transit stem from collaboration between researchers, startups, and legacy infrastructure players. These innovations not only reduce emissions and congestion but also improve safety for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike.
- More accessible career pathways in critical industries: As transit evolves, so do the roles that support it. Universities and technical schools are launching new programs in supply chain analytics, autonomous systems, and sustainable engineering, while employers are creating apprenticeships, upskilling initiatives, and inclusive hiring practices to meet growing demand. This convergence opens doors for a more diverse, tech-savvy workforce to enter and shape the industry.
- A feedback loop where innovation drives hiring, and hiring fuels innovation: As new tools and technologies gain traction, companies need talent to implement, scale, and refine them. At the same time, bringing in fresh thinkers—whether it’s a recent graduate or a mid-career switcher—often sparks new ideas and uncovers unseen opportunities. This virtuous cycle accelerates both progress and workforce development, making innovation not just a goal but a culture.
Success in transit is no longer just about moving people or goods, it’s about moving ideas and careers forward. By investing in education, talent, and experimentation, we’re not just reshaping how we travel, we’re redefining what’s possible.
Need help telling your transit success story or recruiting the next wave of transportation talent?
Prose helps public and private transportation organizations turn research, policy, and hiring initiatives into powerful narratives. Learn more at prosemedia.com.
