DDOT hosts first-ever FTA-TSI Instructors Training to advance safety and service excellence

The week-long training, which began May 5, 2025, is being held at DDOT’s Main Office and brings together the agency’s instructor staff for an intensive program focused on nationally recognized transit industry specific instructional techniques. The course is being led by seasoned transit professionals representing major systems across the country, including AC Transit (Bay Area, CA), the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (Boston, MA), and Metro (Los Angeles, CA). 

“This is a tremendous step forward for DDOT and the citizens we proudly serve,” said Corie Holmes, Chief Safety Officer. “By investing in our instructors, we are investing in the safety and quality of service for all Detroiters who rely on public transit each and every day.” 

The training highlights DDOT’s commitment to fostering a culture of safety and accountability. With enhanced instructional methods rooted in real-world transit expertise, DDOT aim to reduce preventable accidents, sharpen operator skills, and ultimately enhance the customer experience across its service network. 

“As we adopt and implement these industry-leading training practices, riders can expect to see noticeable improvements in service reliability, operator performance, and overall system safety,” added Holmes. 

This inaugural training reflects DDOT’s forward-thinking approach and dedication to innovation, workforce development, and delivering the safe, efficient, and rider-focused transit experience the citizens of Detroit deserve. Additionally, this milestone demonstrates DDOT’s important role in advancing transit in Southeast Michigan.