A message from TTC CEO Rick Leary

Like so many of you, I am really looking forward to the TTC Bus Roadeo & Family Day this Sunday at Arrow Road Division. There will be plenty of fun things to do for the whole family like carnival rides and giant inflatables. You can also stop by the TTC marketplace to chat with colleagues from different departments and learn what is going on across the company.

And, of course, there will be plenty of free food throughout the day, including a poutine truck and an ice cream truck. The TTC/United Way team will also host an all-day barbecue to raise money for our campaign. TTC employees have always been generous with their time, and I would like to thank all of the volunteers who are helping to make this year’s special event a big hit.

I also encourage you to come out and cheer on our operating and maintenance finalists who are vying for top honours at this year’s Grand Championship Roadeo events. I want to offer my sincere congratulations to all the competitors. It is a tremendous accomplishment to make it this far. The Roadeo challenge not only recognizes your spirit of competition, but it also acknowledges the exceptional job you do for the TTC and our customers day in and day out.

We know how much pride, dedication and hard work goes into being an outstanding Operator or Technician. Some of our grand champions will go on to represent the TTC at the APTA international competition next year. So best of luck to all of our competitors:

• Bus Transportation: Andrew Smith, Robert Sorrenti, Rick Arbaji, Christina Barry, Gaurav Basra, Dhruv Chadha, Charles Carde, Nasir Chaudhry, Kosmo Silimanis, Mogan Rayathurai, Randy Gajadhar, Edward Veliz, Rob Kempers, Shanae Brown, Mark Ramsay and Aquilino Rodas. 
• Wheel-Trans: Azem Asimovski, Rick Rideout, Robert Stelwagen, Carol Zmuda, John Nikas and Suzette Rowe. 
• Maintenance Driver: Steve Ramlal, Nicholas Gentili, Robert Amos, William Tu, Robert Baker, Darren McAlister, Kelvin Henriquez Gomez and Anthony Sampagna. 
• Bus Maintenance: Natale Ruberto, Jeremy King, Steve Lombardi, Robin Wallace, Rajesh Arunasalam, Drew Killingbeck, Mike Lynch, Bob Baker, Tom Tzirtziganis, Abdel Mohamed, Nathan Vickers, Paul Wong, Henry Lue, Ryan Mabee, Nick Georgousakis, Rick DiSanza, Khemraj Jairam, Hanson Wong, Kelvin Gomez, Ryan Rideout, Marco Di Matteo, Markus Kassella, Steve Fung and Wayne Szeto.

Drop by for a while or spend the day exploring. The Roadeo kicks off at 9 a.m., with the full Family Day event starting at 10 a.m. I am looking forward to seeing everyone on Sunday.

Public Forum on Accessible Transit

Another important event on the TTC calendar this month is the Public Forum on Accessible Transit. This is an annual meeting where we speak directly with customers on our extensive accessibility initiatives, including the Wheel-Trans 10-Year Strategy, Family of Services, and Easier Access projects. This year’s Forum will take place on Monday, October 23, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Toronto Reference Library. The Forum will also be live-streamed. Please stay tuned for more details.

Stay safe.

A message from Chief People Officer Shakira Naraine

TELUS Health crisis response website and additional supports

Our hearts are heavy with the devastating tragedy that unfolded over last weekend. Families have been shattered, and many lives have been forever altered by this unthinkable event. We understand that words can never truly convey the depth of sorrow and pain that this tragedy has brought to our community. 

Please know that we are here to support you and your immediate family with our resources. In addition to the resources shared yesterday, please visit TELUS Health’s dedicated crisis response webpage if you are looking for support. This page includes practical advice for coping with traumatic events, as well as a phone number to call for professional support. You may also find the below resources helpful. 

The TELUS Health team (formerly Lifeworks) has free, confidential, and 24/7 support services to help you cope with the emotional and psychological toll of these events. There is a dedicated team of counselors and professionals who are ready to listen, provide guidance, and offer a safe space for you to express your feelings and concerns. If you or your immediate family needs support, please do not hesitate to reach out. The support line is available around the clock, and caring professionals are available to assist you through this difficult time.

Remember that the immediate and confidential EAP services are accessible 24/7/365 by calling 1-800-572-0039, or TTY: 711 (TTY to Voice) or 1-800-855-1155.

Please do not hesitate to reach out for any additional support you may require.

TELUS Health - Coping in Times of Political Uncertainty

TELUS Health - Coping with Feelings of Fear and Anxiety About Violence

TELUS Health - Taking care after a traumatic event

TELUS Health - Tips for helping your child through a traumatic event

TELUS Health - How a traumatic event can affect you

Get involved

Leave no pin standing at a Recreation Council bowling social

When: Saturday, October 14, 2023 from 8 to 10 p.m.

Where: Playtime Bowl & Entertainment (33 Samor Rd., North York)

Tickets are $40 per bowler and include two hours of bowling, shoe rental, and food. See the poster for more details.

Bring your families to TTC’s Family Day and Bus Roadeo event at Arrow Road Garage



When: Sunday, October 15, 2023, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; The Roadeo begins at 9 a.m.

Where: Arrow Road Garage (700 Arrow Rd.)

This fun day is free to TTC all employees and is accessible.

Employees are encouraged to park at Sheppard Distribution Centre (A1-2233 Sheppard Ave. W) as parking will be very limited at Arrow Road Division. Shuttle buses will run every 10 minutes from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. See this map for parking directions and this poster for more information.

Join the United Way ClimbUP event

Challenge yourself and conquer the 1,776 steps of the CN Tower to support United Way’s fight against local poverty on October 22, 2023. See the poster for more details.

Enter to win one of three $100 Amazon gift cards by taking the TTC Pension Plan 2023 Members Survey today!

Have your say and you could win! The 2023 Members Survey is now live. Between now and October 16, sign up at ttcpp.ca/survey for a chance to win one of three $100 Amazon.ca gift cards when you complete the survey.

Sign up for the United Way Trivia Night fundraiser

When: Thursday, November 16, 2023, registration begins at 4 p.m. and trivia questions begin at 6 p.m.

Where: Granite Brewery & Tied House (245 Eglinton Ave. E)

There's a maximum of 25 teams with 4 people per team. See the poster for more information.

Donate to United Way Greater Toronto

Help the TTC reach its fundraising goal of $800,000. Every bit counts! Donate what you can using the online donation form until December 1. The online form includes options for both one-time donations and payroll deductions. United Way provides a tax receipt for donations over $25. Those who make a payroll donation will have the donation included on their T4.

Cybersecurity tip of the month: Misconceptions about phishing emails

Internal emails are not necessarily safe. Most internal emails are safe, but that doesn’t mean we can let our guard down. Hackers use email spoofing to make the email address look like it is being sent from an internal or trusted source, but it’s actually a phishing email.

Tip: Do not click any link in the email and check the source to authenticate the validity of the email. For example, if it looks like an email from Human Resources, go to TTC’s internal website to view the information on the Human Resources page.

If you suspect a fraudulent email always report it to phishing@ttc.ca. 

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month

In recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we are highlighting various accessibility initiatives introduced at the TTC this year. 

In July 2023, the TTC introduced a subway-style, rear-door exit chime on new hybrid-electric buses. This new feature gives customers who experience low vision an audible cue that doors are about to close. Customers will hear the three-tone rear-door exit chime on all New Flyer hybrid-electric buses. The buses operate out of TTC’s Mount Dennis Division and were purchased as part of the TTC’s transition to a zero-emissions fleet.

After testing the effectiveness and performance of the rear-door exit chime system, the TTC expects to make it a standard feature on all new vehicles in its bus fleet.

To learn more about the TTC’s accessibility initiatives, please visit ttc.ca/accessibility.

The Tiny Forest Initiative 

On Saturday, September 30, the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA)'s Sustainable Neighborhood Action Program (SNAP), and the City of Toronto hosted a community event at the TTC Oakvale Green Space. The purpose of the event was to plant the Pocket Tiny Forest.

The Pocket Tiny Forest is one of many solutions for urban renewal and climate action. With over 50 volunteers, the SNAP team planted 300 native trees and shrubs in a 100-meter section of underutilized urban space adjacent to TTC property. Tiny Forests are one way cities can become greener, healthier and happier places to be. 

SNAP is a program designed to help municipalities improve efficiencies, draw strong community support, and build implementation partnerships for a range of initiatives.

Thank you to all of the volunteers who made this initiative possible! 

Updated COVID-19 Safety Protocols and reminders

As we head into cold and flu season, it is a good time for all of us to review how we can keep ourselves, colleagues and loved ones safe from respiratory viruses, including COVID-19.

This Safety Notice outlines important COVID-19 reminders, including instances when it is mandatory to wear a mask when it is safe to return to work after contracting a respiratory illness, and information on Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) kits.

Help play a part in keeping the workplace safe.

Mark your calendars for the TTC’s 16th Annual Public Forum on Accessible Transit!

On Monday, October 23, the TTC's Annual Public Forum on Accessible Transit will take place in person at the Toronto Reference Library (789 Yonge St.) in the Bram and Bluma Appel Salon.

A marketplace event will take place from 6 to 7 p.m., where attendees can interact with TTC staff and view display boards about various accessibility initiatives at the TTC. The Forum will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. A live stream link to join the Forum virtually will be available at ttc.ca.

More information about the Forum is available at ttc.ca/accessibility.

First bus departs from the new Kennedy Station bus terminal

On Saturday, October 8, the 903 Kennedy-Scarborough Centre Express route began operating out of a new bus terminal at Kennedy Station. 

Construction on the new terminal began in May 2023 as part of the TTC’s Line 3 Bus Replacement Plan. The added platforms will help increase capacity at the station for up to 70 express buses per hour, which will run between Kennedy and Scarborough Centre stations. 

Learn more about the new bus terminal at ttc.ca/line3.

November 1 is TTC’s annual Take Our Kids to Work Day

We recognize many TTC employees work in areas where your child cannot attend your workplace on Take Our Kids to Work Day for safety, security or confidentiality reasons. To ensure all Grade 9 students have an opportunity to get involved on this day, we’re holding a centralized event for students of employees who aren’t able to visit their parents at work.

This year’s event will take place at the Subway Operations Building, 3rd Floor Cafeteria at Hillcrest Complex (1138 Bathurst St.), from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The event includes guest speakers, guided tours, and a pizza lunch.

Event sign-up is based on a first-come, first-serve basis as there is a limit of 80 spots available. The deadline to register is October 18, 2023.

To register or if you have any questions, please email Filming, Tours and Events Specialist Sandy Tsirlis at Sandy.Tsirlis@ttc.ca.

Employees at Danforth Division hold SRT farewell event

On October 5, 2023, employees at Danforth Division held a local event in honour of the Scarborough Rapid Transit (SRT).

The event had boards for employees to sign and a selfie wall with a photo of the interior car in 2017 before the SRT rebuild.

Pictured above are employees in front of the selfie wall.

"Growing up, I was really close to my Uruguayan roots. Being a Latin American has shaped who I am first and foremost because it is the language and culture of my parents. They taught me to be proud of who I am and how fortunate we are to live in a country like Canada, the place we call home. As a first-generation Canadian, I was able to enjoy the best of both worlds, which is something I keep embedded in my heart and teach my son. It is an absolute honor that TTC recognizes and encourages diversity and inclusion. It allows both the employees and passengers to feel like they matter."  - Simonette Jesus, Subway Operator, Danforth Division, representing Uruguay

"Celebrating Latin American Heritage Month is a meaningful opportunity to honor the rich cultural tapestry, history, and contributions of Latino communities. It's a time to embrace diversity, promote understanding, and recognize the resilience and achievements of Latin Americans. Personally, it means fostering appreciation for my own heritage, educating others about its significance, and fostering unity among all backgrounds." - Wilfredo Guezada Guevara, General Divisional Clerk, Wheel-Trans Division

Women's History Month

Celebrating Women's History Month with dynamic duo's at the TTC

Throughout the month of October, the TTC is celebrating Women’s History Month by highlighting women who have made a positive impact within their roles throughout the Commission. This year’s theme, She Did, So Now I Can, celebrates the actions of inspiring women that positively impact our lives today. Stay tuned for all of the features throughout the month!

“My journey to becoming a successful coach technician apprentice at the TTC would not be possible without the unwavering support of Jeanette. Very early in my career, she became my mentor, coach and cheerleader. Jeanette continues to inspire me through passion and dedication and her ongoing commitment to elevating the success of other women here at TTC.” - Carol Johnson, Coach Technician Apprentice, Bus Maintenance and Shops

“Mentoring Carol has been an amazing experience. Her eagerness to learn and love for the work reignites my appreciation for the trade. It is satisfying to see a woman’s career blossom in a non-traditional role, and I am happy to have played a small part in Carol’s advancement!" - Jeanette Ainey, Night Supervisor – Garage/Shops, Bus Maintenance & Shops

“Women at the TTC have proven themselves in many ways. I am proud to be a part of this outstanding group of women who take on so many diverse roles. I hope to offer inspiration, guidance and strength to any future generation of women looking to grow in this rewarding career.” - Maria Roll, Coach Technician, Queensway Garage

See what the TTC's Instagram account posted this week

"In our 5G era. ✨ You can now connect to 5G wireless in select areas of the subway system to talk, text, and stream.

Happy scrolling!"

Check out @takethettc on Instagram, @ttchelps on Twitter, TTC's Facebook page and TTC's LinkedIn page to see more.

On the move

Katie Evans appointed Assistant, Vehicle Engineering, effective July 9, 2023

Katie joined the TTC in 2019 as a Summer Student in the Revenue Processing Department. Shortly after her Summer Student term, she started full time as a Garage Operations Assistant in the Bus Maintenance and Shops Department, and most recently as an Assistant in the Special Constable Service Department.

As Assistant, Vehicle Engineering, Katie will be supporting the Sustainable Innovation Department, reporting to the Department Head, Mohamed Ismail.

Katie holds a bachelor’s of commerce with a major in organizational behaviour and human resources management from Ontario Tech University (formerly known as the University of Ontario Institute of Technology).

Radu Ghetea appointed Manager, Vehicle Programs RAMS, effective July 30, 2023

Radu is a Licensed Professional Engineer with Professional Engineers Ontario and holds a bachelor's degree in mechatronics engineering. With over 20 years of experience in heavy machinery, Radu has specialized in rail vehicles since 2010. 

His previous work experience includes working as an Engineer for Bombardier Transportation Americas, where he played a vital role in qualifying the Toronto Subway Pilot Vehicles and represented the Bombardier Engineering RAMS group for several Ontario projects. 

In 2018, Radu joined the TTC and coordinated operations, maintenance, and overhaul of the subway vehicles in the Rail Cars and Shops Department. Now, as the Manager of Vehicle Programs RAMS, Radu will be responsible for managing, planning, directing, staffing, controlling and organizing the activities of the RAMS unit.

Mark your calendar

Events and observances from October 16-29, 2023

October - Caribbean Heritage Month, Canadian Islamic History Month, Community Support Month, Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Disability Employment Awareness Month, German Heritage Month, Healthy Workplace Month, Latin American Heritage Month, Learning Disabilities Awareness Month, Women’s History Month

October 17 - Birth of Baha’u’llah (Baha’i)

October 17 - International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

October 18 - Persons Day

October 19 - Pronouns Day

October 19 - Spirit Day (2SLGBTQIA+)

October 21 - Installation of Scriptures as Guru Granth (Sikhism)

October 24 - Dussehra (Hinduism)

October 24 - Navaratri ends (Hinduism)

October 25 - Police and Peace Officer’s National Memorial Day

October 26 - Intersex Awareness Day

October 26 - Birth of Ba’b (Baha’i)

October 26 - Gujarati New Year (Hindu)

October 27 - National Mentoring Day

See a list of all 2023 statutory holidays for non-union employees.

See all the 2023 observances in this year's desk calendar.

Looking to include a date in Mark Your Calendar? Email us at MyTTCWeekly@ttc.ca.

| Employee Career Centre

New TTC internal job postings

At the TTC, we are committed to helping you reach your professional goals through internal promotion and transfer opportunities. The Employee Career Centre allows current employees to apply for any available position.

The TTC is committed to fostering a positive workplace culture with a workforce that is representative of the communities it serves. Committed to the principles of diversity and inclusion, the TTC encourages applications from all qualified applicants. Accommodation is available for applicants of all abilities throughout the recruitment process.

New positions available:

CEO's Office

• Claims Adjuster (Req I.D. 7660)
• Senior Safety Inspector (Req I.D. 8329)
• Director, Audit, Risk and Compliance (Req I.D. 8327)

Corporate Services

• Procurement & Contract Specialist (Req I.D. 7580)
• Senior Testing & Quality Assurance Analyst (Req I.D. 7383)
• Service Desk Analyst (Req I.D. 8341)
• Director, Corporate Financial Planning & Analysis (Req I.D. 7861)

Diversity and Culture

• Indigenous Consultant (Req I.D. 8055)

Engineering, Construction and Expansion

• Quality Assurance Officer (Req I.D. 8325)
• Project Controls Lead-Construction (Req I.D. 8344)

Operations and Infrastructure

• Engineering Technologist, Elevating Devices (Req I.D. 8085)
• Structure Mechanic (Pool) (Req I.D. 8288)
• Engineer, Structural (Req I.D. 8385)
• Design Engineer, Track (Req I.D. 8159)
• Structure Repairperson (Pool) (Req I.D. 8373)
• Structure Maintainer (Pool) (Req I.D. 8402)

Strategy and Customer Experience

• Revenue Equipment Attendant (Req I.D. 6627)

Transportation and Vehicles

• Garage Foreperson (Req I.D. 7095)
• Engineering Technologist, Elevating Devices (Req I.D. 8085)

For more information and a list of all current job postings, visit the Employee Career Centre on MyTTC | Home. Log in with your MyTTC username and password.

Please contact Diversity and Culture – Talent Management at 416-393-4570 with any questions.

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