The National Transit Institute (NTI), a part of the Bloustein School’s Alan M. Voorhees Transportation Center, has announced the appointment of Geisha D. Ester as its new Executive Director.
Ester brings extensive experience to NTI with over 27 years in the transit industry and 18 years dedicated to leadership in workforce development. Previously, she served as Vice President of Training and Workforce Development at the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), where she led a team of nearly 200 professionals, developing training strategies for more than 10,000 employees.
In her career, Ester has been recognized nationally within the transit sector. She has held significant roles such as Chair of the Transportation Research Board’s TCRP Project F-34 and Chair of the American Public Transportation Association’s (APTA) Education and Career Awareness Subcommittee. Before her current role, she was also Vice Chair of NTI’s Advisory Committee.
Robert Noland, Associate Dean of Faculty and Director of the Voorhees Transportation Center, expressed enthusiasm about Ester's appointment: “We are excited to welcome Geisha Ester to lead the National Transit Institute,” he said. “Her vision, expertise, and deep commitment to workforce development will be invaluable as NTI continues to serve the training needs of the public transportation industry nationwide.”
Ester's career reflects her commitment to equitable access to opportunities. She has initiated training programs aimed at empowering underserved youth and individuals who were formerly justice-involved. Her involvement includes participation in Chicago’s Youth Employment Working Group and Mayor’s Interagency Reentry Council.
Expressing her eagerness for this new role, Ester stated: “I am honored to join NTI at such a pivotal time for the transit industry.” She emphasized that "Workforce development is critical to the sustainability and innovation of public transportation," adding that she looks forward to collaborating with NTI's team "to support training excellence across the country."
