Chris James is a dedicated board member of the California Transit Training Consortium (CTTC) and the Chief Executive Officer of the Golden Empire Transit District (GET) in Bakersfield, California. With over 40 years of experience in public transportation, Mr. James brings deep expertise in transit operations, maintenance, and workforce development to CTTC’s mission of advancing professional training for transit employees statewide.

As CEO of GET, Mr. James oversees a fleet that includes compressed natural gas and hydrogen fuel cell battery electric buses, reflecting his commitment to sustainable and innovative transit solutions. He has led key initiatives to improve accessibility and mobility for Bakersfield residents, including partnerships with local government agencies to enhance transportation services for underserved communities.

At CTTC, Mr. James plays a pivotal role in expanding workforce training programs to equip transit professionals with the skills needed to navigate the evolving challenges of the industry. His leadership emphasizes safety, efficiency, and innovation, ensuring that California’s transit workforce remains prepared for the future of public transportation.

Through his extensive career, Mr. James has been recognized for his focus on operational excellence and service reliability. His contributions to CTTC help shape the development of training programs that strengthen the transit industry, support workforce retention, and enhance public transportation services throughout California.