Business View Magazine - Mar 2024

paratransit offerings, NVTA not only caters to the daily commuter but also ensures accessibility for all, reinforcing its role as an indispensable thread in the fabric of Napa Valley’s social and economic life.. Schenck begins by shedding light on the operational ethos of NVTA, emphasizing the integration of the Vine Transit system within Napa Valley’s identity.“We operate both fixed routes and on-demand shuttles across the county, ensuring seamless connectivity within our five incorporated jurisdictions and extending our reach to neighboring regions,” she explains. This strategic network facilitates local commutes and bridges the gap to the larger Bay Area, thereby knitting a tapestry of accessibility and convenience. NVTA’s move to a new Vine Maintenance Facility is a significant leap toward self-reliance and sustainability. Schenck describes the transition as “a pivotal step,” enabling NVTA to better meet operational needs with a space designed specifically for them. This facility is not just an upgrade but a strategic move to support future growth, especially in adopting eco-friendly transportation solutions, like electric vehicles (EVs), in response to California Air Resources Board mandates. Schenck emphasizes the facility’s role in accommodating electric buses, highlighting its medium-voltage electrical system capable of charging up to 12 EVs and reducing NVTA’s carbon footprint. Additionally, installing a one-megawatt solar system at the facility shows NVTA’s commitment to renewable energy. Schenck notes, “We’re laying the groundwork for a future where our energy needs are increasingly met through sustainable sources.” This plan includes preparing for hydrogen fuel technology and positioning NVTA at the forefront of innovation. STRATEGIC WORKFORCE PLANNING IN THE FACE OF EXPANSION Napa Valley Transportation Authority is gearing up for a significant shift with its move to a new, state-of-the-art maintenance facility, and the conversation naturally veers toward the implications for its workforce.With the anticipation of expanded operations, the question arises: How will NVTA’s staffing needs evolve in this new chapter? Schenck underscores the current stance on NVTA’s workforce strategy, emphasizing a cautious approach to expansion.“At the moment, we are maintaining our existing team structure, except for adding a utility worker to manage the increased square footage of our new facility,” she clarifies. This decision reflects a deliberate pacing, balancing the excitement of growth with the reality of operational demands, funding constraints and staffing challenges. Facing a tight labor market for skilled trades, NVTA’s Schenck highlights the challenge: “We are essentially striving to keep our head above water amidst a notable shortage in mechanics and drivers.” To combat this, NVTA has implemented a proactive training strategy, hiring C-level mechanics to elevate within, aiming to “cultivate a pool of B and, eventually, A-level mechanics.” 145 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 03 NAPA VALLEY TRANSPORTAT ION AUTHORI TY