Head back to school with #ELGLInspire. Next stop: Penn State University on March 15, 2019! Learn more about our event speakers in these brief profiles, and connect with them on social media before and after the event!
Louwana Oliva
General Manager, CATA- Centre Area Transportation Authority
What was the very first paying job you held (that you paid taxes on)?
Any job they asked me to do at K-mart got me through college . First post college job was with a trade association as a technical editor for industrial hygiene studies.
What was your: undergraduate institution? Graduate institution? What was/were your degree(s) in?
The University of Akron- BA in Mass Media Communications
What class(es) (if any) are applicable to your job today?
Everything, but mostly classes that taught me how to think and reason, write, and to influence people to consider another point of view
Do you have a work or life motto? What is it?
What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail
What book are you currently reading? Would you recommend it?
Yes, And – just too soon to say I would recommend
Other than ELGL – do you belong to any other professional associations? Which one(s)?
Mostly local and national trade associations for public transportation
What’s the best networking advice for job seekers you’ve heard or shared?
Introverts are typically good listeners – and people like to talk about what they do or feel passionate about
What’s the fastest way to NOT get a job or internship with you? (e.g. what should potential applicants avoid doing if they were to ever interview with you for a position).
Not being willing to use the service we supply – better yet try it before you come to the interview. You need to understand the customer’s experience.
Why should an undergraduate student consider a career working in local government?
It is fulfilling work where you can do good for your community and get paid a living wage. It is a great place to learn on the job and lots of long term employees are set to retire over the next five years. Transit systems across the country are looking for you and your expertise, and are willing to help develop you for the position.