Transit Pioneers: Ms. Willaett Grier’s Road to Retiring a Legend
Published on March 21, 2024
by Brandon T Hunter
Communications Division
30 Years of Dedication and No Tardies. A Chapter in Women’s History
In the heart of Charlotte, settled within the webs of public transit, there is a story of dedication, compassion and a journey that spans three decades. It’s a narrative that not only celebrates Women’s History Month but also marks the retirement of a remarkable individual, Ms. Willaett Grier, the longest-standing paratransit assistant field operations supervisor in the division. As she prepares to bid farewell to her career next week, I had the unique opportunity to sit down with Grier, whose kindness and genuine care for people have left an indelible mark on many.
From the very onset, Grier’s journey was one of unexpected love and commitment. “From day one, I fell in love with the place,” Grier recalls, remembering the memories of the early days at Charlotte Transit, then a part of the Charlotte Department of Transportation. Despite initially seeking merely to secure a position “I just wanted to be vested,” Grier found something far more profound. “I found my second home,” Grier told her parents, a testament to the deep connection felt with the work and the people that Grier served.
Grier’s story is one of transformation and growth, not just for herself but for the city she served. Reflecting on her initial days, she remembers the mentorship and familial support she received from older colleagues. This sense of belonging and shared purpose propelled her from a young, eager operator to a respected supervisor, a journey that underscored her love for people and her city.
One of the most striking aspects of Grier’s career is her relationship with the passengers she served. These interactions were not just about transportation; they were about human connections, shared stories and life lessons. “I got so close to them,” Grier shares, revealing the depth of these bonds and the impact passengers had on her personally and professionally. Her recounting of a passenger who triumphed over dialysis only to pass away shortly after is a sad reminder of the emotional investments inherent in her work. However, she said that she wouldn’t want to have any other job.
Grier’s narrative also illuminates the evolution of CATS, from the introduction of the light rail to the expansion of paratransit services. Her pride in the city’s growth and her role in supporting it are evident, as is her dedication to safety, service and mentorship. “Safety first,” she emphasizes, offering advice to new operators and reflecting on the responsibility of carrying lives in their hands.
As Grier approaches retirement, her reflections are bittersweet. The bonds formed, the lives touched and the joy found in service leave her with a sense of fulfillment, yet the goodbye is hard. “This is not goodbye. I’ll see you again,” she assures, her faith guiding her optimism for the future and her continued love for the City of Charlotte and its people.
Ms. Willaett Grier’s story is more than a career retrospective; it’s a testament to the impact one individual can have on a community through service, compassion and an unwavering commitment to others. As she moves to the next chapter of her life, her legacy within CATS and the hearts of those she served remains. Her journey reminds us all of the power of caring for others and the difference we can make in the lives we touch, every day.
If you're interested in continuing the legacy of Ms. Willaett after her retirement, consider exploring opportunities at JoinCATS.org. Discover what it's like to work alongside dedicated individuals like Ms. Willaett.
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