The Women in Bus and Coach “Spotlight On” initiative shines a light on the incredible contributions of women in all roles across the bus, coach, and community transport sector. From professional drivers and engineers to human resources experts and CEO’s, ‘Spotlight On’ will highlight the diverse talents and achievements of women in this dynamic industry.
For Community Transport Week we are focussing on and find out about:
Amy Hutson
Operations Supervisor
HcL
How did you get to where you are today?
I was looking for a job 9 years ago back in 2015 and started as the cleaner here at HcL Transport. A few months later one of the Despatchers who deal with booking passengers’ journeys and other organisational tasks left, I volunteered to cover their shifts until they found someone new to start. I really enjoyed the role and after around 2 months I was offered the job here in our Edinburgh, East and Midlothian office. Then in 2023 our Operation Supervisor left to go to a new job. I offered to temporary fill this position. I enjoyed the extra responsibilities and tasks and decided to apply for the role and was successful.
Did you experience any challenges getting to where you are today?
I was lucky that I had been working as a despatcher for 8 years before I became the Operations Supervisor, so I had a good idea what the position entailed. It is a lot of additional responsibility but the person who was previously in the post also helped me and gave me advice.
What do you like about the sector?
We are a Community Transport provider working with people who have mobility challenges, older people; people with disabilities, additional support needs & health issues so many of our passengers would not get out without our transport.
Knowing that we are helping people and making a difference in their lives is the best bit about our services.
What does a typical day look like?
It can be very busy!
Throughout the day I am answering the phone dealing with bookings and enquiries as well as assisting drivers who are out on journeys if they need information or advice.
I also organise the drivers shifts, deal with invoices and passengers’ registrations and I need to be aware of vehicle maintenance.
What advice would you give to women thinking about a career in the bus, coach and community transport sector?
I work in a good team with the despatchers, drivers and other office staff and I have had the opportunity to progress at HcL so if women are thinking about working in the bus and coach sector I would say give it a try.
What has been your bus, coach or community transport career highlight?
Being successful in securing the Operations Supervisor position.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
I hope still working here and continuing to develop in my role.
Anything else you would like to share?
Only to stress what I said before if anyone is considering a career in the sector, I would encourage them as I really enjoy working in the bus and coach sector and the opportunities that I have had.
Thank you for sharing Amy, your story truly makes a difference.
To find out more about who Amy works for, and career opportunities visit: https://www.hcltransport.org.uk/vacancies
