Staff Spotlight: Meet Shelliann

Every day, thousands of TTC employees help keep Toronto moving – and there’s often much more to their work than customers see.

For more than 13 years, Shelliann has been behind the wheel as a TTC bus operator helping customers safely get where they need to go. She also helps prepare the next generation of operators as a divisional trainer.

For our first Staff Spotlight, we caught up with Shelliann to learn what a typical day looks like, what customers might be surprised to know about driving a TTC bus, and what she enjoys most about the job.

You’ve been with the TTC for over a decade. Tell us more about what you do.

I have proudly been with the TTC for over 13 years as a bus operator. It's been a rewarding journey, and I'm grateful to be part of a team that helps keep Toronto moving. 

For the past five years, I’ve also been a divisional trainer. Becoming a bus operator involves 25 days of in-class and on-the-bus training, Monday to Friday. Three of those days are dedicated to divisional training which is my assigned role.

New bus operators spend those three days training with me, operating an assigned route, while I coach, guide and provide feedback. My role is to help them apply what they have learned in class and build their confidence, so they feel comfortable and prepared to work independently.

I enjoy mentoring and supporting new operators as they begin their careers.  

What does a typical day look like for you?

Every day is different, which is one of the things I enjoy most about my job.  

Typically, my day starts early. I'm up at 3:40 a.m. to report to work for 5:40 a.m. Before starting my route, I complete a bus circle check that consists of seven steps and includes testing operating features – like the lights, breaks, wheelchair ramp – to make sure my bus is safe and ready for service. Once I'm on the road, my focus is on getting customers to their destinations safely while navigating traffic, weather and the many situations that can arise throughout the day.  

What do you enjoy most about your work?  

The best part of my job is the people. I enjoy meeting customers from all walks of life and being able to help them. Whether it's answering a question or simply greeting someone with a smile, it's rewarding to make a positive difference in someone's day.  

I enjoy being part of a service that makes such an important difference in people's lives. Every day, we help people get to work, school, appointments, and home to their families. Knowing that I play a role in keeping the city connected gives me a sense of purpose.  

What might people find surprising about being a TTC Bus Operator?  

Many people don't realize how much focus the job requires. We're constantly watching traffic, pedestrians, cyclists, and passenger safety – all while keeping to a schedule. It takes patience, focus, and a commitment to safety every single day.  

What’s one helpful tip you’d share with customers to make their trip easier?  

My biggest tip is to plan ahead and give yourself a little extra travel time, especially during busy periods. Also, have your fare or payment ready before boarding. A little preparation helps make everyone's trip smoother.  

The next time you board a TTC bus, remember that there’s a person, and a story, behind the wheel. Shelliann’s is just one of the many that help keep Toronto moving.