Quanae Smith, MBA
Quanae Smith, MBA, has dedicated over two decades to the transportation industry, building her entire career with Miami-Dade Transit in Miami, Florida. Beginning as a bus operator at the age of 19, she quickly developed expertise in route operations, safety regulations, and customer service, earning the trust and respect of her colleagues and the community. Over the years, she has advanced through the organization to her current role as a bus operations and maintenance instructor, as well as a third-party CDL instructor, where she trains drivers of all skill levels on proper bus operation and safety protocols in accordance with Florida Department of Transportation standards.
Beyond her operational expertise, Quanae is deeply committed to advancing women within the transportation industry. As Chairperson of Women Who Move Miami through COMTO Miami, she actively mentors and empowers women to pursue leadership roles and higher positions across transportation sectors, including land, air, and sea. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes hands-on training, continuous learning, and fostering an environment where all team members can thrive. Quanae’s passion for professional development extends beyond her workplace through involvement in youth outreach programs and women’s empowerment initiatives.
A lifelong learner, Quanae earned her Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Capella University and has completed extensive CDL training certifications to qualify as an instructor. She attributes her success to mentors, persistence, and the willingness to seize opportunities, and she encourages the next generation of women in transportation to pursue their goals with confidence and resilience. Known for her dedication, mentorship, and advocacy, Quanae continues to shape the future of Miami-Dade Transit while inspiring the next generation of transportation leaders.
• Third-Party CDL Instructor | Florida Department of Transportation CDL Training Certification
• Capella University – Master of Business Administration (MBA), Business Administration and Management, General
• Influential Women 2026
• COMTO Miami
• Connections with Women Who Move Atlanta
• Youth Symposium for Juveniles and Outreach Programs
• Women's Empowerment in Transportation
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the mentors and supporters I’ve had along the way, particularly Wade Jones and Dana Wilson, as well as persistence, returning to school, and taking advantage of training opportunities that allowed me to grow within Miami-Dade Transit.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received was to stop second-guessing myself and just apply for the job. Go for it, and figure out the rest along your journey. That guidance helped me move forward without letting self-doubt hold me back.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I tell young women not to let early setbacks or having children early define their destiny. Align your path with your goals, keep pushing forward, apply for opportunities confidently, and continue to learn and grow. Everything is not over after early challenges—perseverance leads to success.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The transportation sector is rapidly growing and diversifying across air, land, and sea. The biggest challenge is recruiting enough people into the field, while the opportunity lies in long-term financial stability and advancing more women into higher leadership roles across all modes of transportation.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are women’s empowerment, mentorship, giving back, perseverance, and resilience. I am committed to helping others succeed while advancing equality and leadership opportunities for women in transportation.