Meet Eduardo Jasso, a husband and father of three, who after years of feeling unfulfilled decided it was time to seek a position that aligned with his values. His search for a job that feels like home, where passion and hard work converge, led him to Metra, where he works as a coach cleaner in the Mechanical Department.
Why did you decide to work for Metra?
Before coming to Metra, I worked at various warehouses. I worked at Pepsi for five years. Although I liked those jobs, it didn’t feel like a career to me. I came to Metra for my career. Right off the bat you get a livable wage, especially with all the high prices these days, and at the same time you have opportunities to grow.
What is something passengers don’t know about your job?
Coach cleaning can be challenging work at times. Normally I clean five to six cars. I clean windows, heater guards and all the stainless steel. I make sure there is nothing on the seats, making sure passengers have clean seats to sit on. I make sure the floor is nice and shiny because when people take public transportation, they want it to be clean. The trick is to work hard to keep the trains well-maintained, clean, and sanitized to ensure that all the customers see a clean train every time they ride.
Did you choose the railroad or did the railroad choose you?
This is my first railroad job. I chose the railroad because it’s a career that is never going to go down. People will always need to ride the trains, and I feel comfortable and safe knowing that my job is safe.
Do you like your job?
I like coming to work. It’s important to take pride in your work because it makes you feel better about yourself knowing that you make a difference in what the passengers see and honestly when you have pride in what you do, it makes work a happier place to be.