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.
As part of our International Women’s Day celebrations, we’re turning our Spotlight On the women who help lead and shape Women in Bus and Coach, from our Region Chairs and Board Directors to volunteers. Through this special series, we’re recognising the dedication, leadership and commitment of the women who work behind the scenes to strengthen our community across the bus, coach and community transport sector.
Today, we’re proud to focus on:
Victoria Armstrong
Chief Executive, Community Transport Association
&
Director, Women in Bus and Coach
How did you get to where you are today?
For me, getting to where I am today hasn’t been about following a straight line or a single career plan. It’s been about values, curiosity, and a strong belief in fairness.
My career has always been rooted in social impact. I started out wanting to understand systems better. How law, policy and services affect people’s everyday lives which led me to study law and later complete a PhD in applied social sciences and mental health. Along the way, I learned that real change doesn’t happen in theory alone, it happens when you listen to people and design solutions with them, not for them.
Working in the voluntary and community sector shaped me profoundly. Roles at organisations like Disability North taught me the importance of advocacy, inclusion and amplifying voices that are too often overlooked. Those experiences grounded my leadership style and reinforced my commitment to equity and access.
Today, as Chief Executive of the Community Transport Association, I’m proud to lead work that connects communities and tackles inequality through accessible transport. It’s a role that brings together everything I care about- collaboration, innovation and social justice. And it reminds me daily that leadership is about service, not status.
Did you experience any challenges getting to where you are today?
Growing up, I didn’t have role models who showed me what leadership or higher education could look like. Going to university wasn’t really an expectation in my family, even though my school encouraged me and pushed me to aim higher. For a long time, I was figuring things out without a roadmap, learning to back myself and take opportunities even when I wasn’t sure I belonged in those spaces.
If so, how did you overcome then?
One of the most important ways I overcame those challenges was by actively seeking out mentors and surrounding myself with strong, generous women. Their encouragement, honesty and belief helped me find confidence, navigate unfamiliar environments and imagine possibilities I hadn’t seen growing up. I’ve learned how powerful it can be to ask questions, listen carefully, and learn from women who are willing to share their experience.
What do you like about the bus, coach or community transport sector?
What I love about working in community transport is that it’s fundamentally about people.
Community transport sits at the intersection of mobility, inclusion and social justice. It’s not just about moving people from A to B, it’s about access to healthcare, education, work, and connection. Every day, I see how reliable, affordable transport can reduce isolation, support independence and strengthen communities, particularly for people who are too often
overlooked by mainstream systems.
What does a typical day look like?
There is no such thing!
What advice would you give to women thinking about a career in the bus, coach or community transport sector?
Be curious and get involved. You don’t need a transport background. What matters most is a commitment to people, communities and inclusion. Seek out mentors, explore voluntary roles, ask questions, and don’t underestimate the impact you can have. Community transport is a sector where values matter, voices are heard, and your work can genuinely change lives.
What has been your bus, coach or community transport sector career highlight?
Building a leadership career rooted in social justice. From frontline voluntary sector roles to national leadership, while staying true to the values of inclusion, access and community.
What three things could the bus, coach or community transport sector do to improve the industry for women?
The sector could do more to create clear, visible pathways for women into leadership and decision-making roles. That means not only encouraging women to enter the industry, but actively supporting progression through mentoring, sponsorship and flexible career routes that recognise different life stages. Greater visibility of women at all levels, particularly in senior and
operational roles, would help challenge perceptions of who belongs in the sector and make it easier for women to see a future for themselves here.
What changes have you seen since in the sector since you joined?
I don’t think I have been in the sector long enough to comment.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
In five years, I see myself still leading with purpose, influence and impact, continuing to champion inclusion and supporting the next generation of women leaders.
Thank you for sharing Victoria, your story truly makes a difference.
To find out more about who Victoria works for visit: https://ctauk.org/
