Her Story
About Damaris
Damaris Robins serves as the Director of Transportation for East Salisbury Area School District in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. She has dedicated 20 years to student transportation, including the past 6 years in her current role overseeing student routing, safety inspections, driver support, and district meetings. Prior to this, she managed restaurants in the food industry and group homes and day programs for the special needs population. Robins earned her MBA from the University of Phoenix and is currently enrolled at Salem University pursuing her DBA. She leads the Transporting Dreams scholarship program, which raises funds through driver purchases to support students with different abilities in achieving their post-graduation goals. Robins attributes her success to the dedicated drivers who care for students and the community. Her core values center on her faith as a follower of Christ, and she advises not taking interactions personally when resolving concerns from parents or community members.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Damaris
01What do you attribute your success to?
My success comes from the drivers who care. It's not even me, it's all of them. Drivers who really care for the students, the community, and what they do.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I received is not to take it personal. When a parent or community member is upset and lashing out because their most precious cargo is involved, remember it's not about you as the person but about finding a resolve. Don't take it personally.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
It is definitely different every day. As routine as it may seem, it is totally different. Do not be overwhelmed with all that it takes to make it happen. It will become second nature, just weather that storm. You feel like you're fighting fires on a daily basis, but it ends up being repetition, and you will make it through.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is the national driver shortage, though it has gotten better. There are opportunities for more drivers and trainers to train these drivers.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My faith is most important, being a follower of Christ. Faith being first and foremost in both my work and personal life.
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