For Immediate Release
TERRELL, Texas — March 23, 2026 — STAR Transit has launched its Guiding Star Mentor Program in collaboration with the International Transportation Learning Center (ITLC), a national nonprofit organization based in Silver Spring, Maryland. ITLC is dedicated to advancing frontline workforce development across critical industry sectors, including transportation, infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing.
In 2021, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) selected ITLC to operate the Transit Workforce Center (TWC)—the agency’s first-ever national technical assistance center focused on transit workforce development. Through TWC, ITLC supports public transportation providers and their partners with frontline workforce recruitment, hiring, retention, training, and career advancement strategies.
“The Guiding Star Mentor Program represents our commitment to investing in our people,” said STAR Transit’s executive director Tommy Henricks. “Through this collaboration with the Transit Workforce Center, we are strengthening training, mentorship, and career pathways that will help our workforce grow and succeed.”
The Guiding Star Mentor Program is led by transportation director Antonio Harris. Three regional mentors—who are current STAR Transit operators—have been selected to support and mentor new hires, helping them transition successfully into their roles.
According to ITLC, creating, supporting, and retaining a strong and skilled workforce requires high-quality training programs, particularly in occupations impacted by rapidly changing technologies and evolving workforce needs. Effective mentorship programs contribute to positive outcomes, including improved recruitment, retention, and opportunities for employees to advance through internal career ladders.
“At the end of the day, our success depends on the strength of our workforce,” Henricks added. “The Guiding Star Mentor Program reflects our long-term commitment to supporting our employees while delivering safe, reliable, and forward-thinking transit services.”
About STAR Transit. STAR Transit is the fourth-largest transit agency in North Central Texas—and the largest operating without sales tax funding. Instead, it relies on federal and state grants, along with local partnerships with cities, counties, and businesses. STAR Transit provides safe, affordable, and convenient transportation for the general public, 60+, veterans, and individuals with disabilities, ensuring access to jobs, healthcare, shopping, entertainment, and more. With a team of over 85 employees, the agency facilitates more than 215,000 rides annually. STAR Transit is headquarters in Terrell, TX. For more information, visit STARtransit.org.