WHEREAS, Patricia Riley made history in 1984 when, after seeing an ad for a SEPTA Engineering Trainee, the Mechanical Engineering student applied thinking she would receive tuition reimbursement for her education at Drexel University. She thought she would be working in an office, but instead she went on to become SEPTA’s first female train conductor; and
WHEREAS, Riley quickly learned that there is much more to the job than operating doors and taking people’s tickets.
She had to learn how to tie handbrakes, and couple and uncouple trains with little to no assistance from her male co-workers
; and
WHEREAS, Patricia Riley faced numerous challenges in an environment that had historically been dominated by men, showing resilience and determination in mastering all aspects of the job; and
WHEREAS, Throughout her career, Patricia proved her ability to handle difficult and high-pressure situations, ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers while breaking barriers for women in a male-dominated industry; and
WHEREAS, Riley credits her upbringing with her ability to make it through conductor training. Being the oldest child, raised by a single mother, she matured quickly and helped her mother with her two younger brothers while her mother worked. Her mother instilled confidence, respect and tenacity in all her children, and Pat believes she was made to succeed; and
WHEREAS, In 2013 Riley was named a “pioneer” by SEPTA alongside another female trailblazer at the agency, were honored for their hard work and accomplishments by Women in Transit; and
WHEREAS, In addition to being a conductor, she is a real estate agent, a tax preparer, and since 2004 a mother to adopted children. During her last two years at SEPTA she completed her Associates degree, and later received her Bachelors from Piece College; and
WHEREAS, Patricia Riley’s impact extends beyond her role as a conductor, as her accomplishments have contributed to the ongoing efforts to increase diversity and gender equality within SEPTA and other transportation systems; and
WHEREAS, Because of the pioneering of women like Riley SEPTA now has more women working as train conductors on their rail system, which creates opportunities for breaking down gender stereotypes in the workplace, fostering a more inclusive environment; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA
, Hereby recognizes Patricia Riley, SEPTA’s first female conductor.
FURTHER RESOLVED
, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Patricia Riley as evidence of the true and sincere admiration and respect of this legislative body.
End