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.
Today we focus on and find out about:
Chantel Neil
PCV Driving Instructor
Go Ahead London
How did you get to where you are today?
I joined the industry in 2007 as a trainee bus driver, throughout the years I have explored A variety of roles within the garages such as garage allocations supervisor, buddy driver and classroom trainer, however in 2015 I took on the role of temporary Driving Instructor. While on maternity I was TUPE to Go Ahead London shortly after my return to work I joined the training department, and I was offered a permanent position as a driving instructor.
Did you experience any challenges getting to where you are today?
Being a predominantly male industry some trainees at first believe that the training they will receive would be of higher standard if it’s done by a male instructor.
But overall, my transition from a driver to my current role was smooth.
What do you like about the sector?
There are many different opportunities for career progression
What does a typical day look like?
I meet with my trainees at the depot, once all vehicle safety checks have been completed, we head out onto the roads for some practical training. Typically, we will be out for most of the day then we return to the depot and brush up on other essential skills such as reversing and on bus lessons.
What advice would you give to women thinking about a career in the bus and coach sector?
The industry can sometimes be very overwhelming, give yourself time to settle in. Be bold, be confident & most importantly be yourself. I couldn’t see myself anywhere else I love my job and my team who are now like my extended family.
What has been your bus or coach sector career highlight?
I’ve met some amazing people throughout my career, I’m so grateful for the advice shared along the way.
My highlight is being able to have a brilliant home / work balance.
I’m able to do a job which I love, and I get job satisfaction while also being mum to my two beautiful daughters, as well as volunteering as Assistant Manager to my daughter’s football team which is proudly sponsored by Go Ahead London & Bidvest Noonan.
What three things could the Bus and Coach sector do to improvement the industry for Women?
- Toilets are still an issue at some locations throughout the bus network for our female drivers.
- Women’s recruitment days – after taking part in the last campaign it highlighted the issue of some women not seeing the industry as a potential career prospect due to it being a predominantly male environment.
- Representation- There is currently A campaign for gender equality & inclusivity & I’m so excited for this, currently Women only Represent 12% of the industry this needs to be higher. I am regularly faced with people being surprised I’m the instructor & not the trainee in 2024 this shouldn’t be the case.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
I have no plans at present I’m happy with where I am, I have the perfect home/ work balance.
Anything else you would like to share?
I’m forever grateful for the support of my instructor / trainer he not only trained me to drive a bus he then went on to train me to become the instructor I am today. If it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I’d have believed in myself to get to where I am today.
I’m very proud to say I am 1 of the 6 female instructors working for Go Ahead London.
Thank you for sharing your story Chantel you are truly an inspiration!
To find out more about who Chantel works for, and career opportunities visit: https://www.goaheadlondon.com/careers
