Infusing Inclusion into our DNA
At Metra, our mission is to provide safe, reliable, and accessible transportation for all riders across the region. We achieve this through the dedication of our diverse team—professionals from all backgrounds who bring unique perspectives and innovative solutions to our service.
To reinforce our commitment to inclusion and belonging, we have developed a comprehensive inclusion strategy that integrates diversity into the core of our business. This strategy includes:
- Cultural awareness and civility training for all employees
- Accountability for managers to foster an inclusive workforce
- A commitment to respect, collaboration, and equity at every level of our organization
Building a workplace where everyone thrives requires the “best” from us, and inclusion demands “all” of us. At Metra, we celebrate our differences, embrace our commonalities, and create a culture where every individual feels valued and empowered.
“This is a top priority for Metra and our Board of Directors, and we are fully committed to this initiative,” said Metra CEO/Executive Director Jim Derwinski. “We recognize the importance of fostering an environment where everyone can contribute their talents. The result will be a stronger, more dynamic, and more productive agency.”
We are proud to demonstrate our commitment to inclusion and belonging by actively participating in APTA’s Opportunity, Engagement, and Accessibility Commitment (OEAC) Program—a roadmap that helps organizations drive meaningful change and build more inclusive workplaces.
Our Workforce
Align Workforce Diversity with Available Labor Force (Gender)
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2023 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates
The U.S. Census Bureau defines the labor force as the total number of employed or unemployed people actively seeking work.
The most updated Employment and Labor Force data available is through 2023.
The chart above reflects Metra’s six-county workforce: Cook County, DuPage County, Kane County, Lake County, McHenry County, and Will County.
Align Workforce Diversity with Available Labor Force (Race)
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2023 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates
The U.S. Census Bureau defines the labor force as the total number of employed or unemployed people actively seeking work.
The most updated Employment and Labor Force data is through 2023, and the most updated Metra data is through 2024.
The chart above reflects Metra’s six-county workforce: Cook County, DuPage County, Kane County, Lake County, McHenry County, and Will County.
All Other includes American Indian, Native Hawaiian, or Other Pacific Islander (not Hispanic or Latino), two or more races, and not identified.