What Does an ETC Do?

An ETC serves as a point of contact between the employer and its employees to help promote an alternative transportation program.

Here are some examples of tasks an ETC could perform:

• Meet with employees to talk about the benefits of carpooling, bicycling or riding the bus. A great opportunity to do this is during New Hire trainings.
• Assist employees with ridematching to form carpools or vanpools. Employees can be directed to Share the Ride NC.org website for on-line ridematching.
• Promote the worksite program to employees by producing and distributing information pieces. Posting information in employee newsletters or by the time clock is a great way to get the word out.
• Brief management on the program's progress. Staff meetings can be a great opportunity to update management.

How Is an ETC Selected?

An ETC can be found at any level or in any department in an organization. In some cases, an ETC is a member of the human resources department or facilities or parking managers.

Regardless of the ETC's position in the organization, what is most important is the ETC's interest in the alternative transportation program.

Although employers are free to designate anyone as their ETC, experience has shown that the most successful ETC's share many of the following abilities and characteristics:

• Access to management and other employees
• Ability to work well with people
• Excellent communication skills
• Flexibility in work responsibilities and schedule to implement and promote a worksite CTR program
• Superior organization and coordination skills
• Ability to access and use a computer
• Interest in commute alternatives or someone who already commutes by bicycle, carpool, vanpool, walking or bus
• Interest in environmental issues

An ETC will need management's support to design a well-rounded program.

Making an ETC Position Work

Being an ETC is a terrific opportunity to show people what one can do. Not only is one helping their organization do its part to reduce traffic congestion, fuel consumption, and air pollution, one also gets a chance to show their employer skills as a project manager.

Also, imagine how great your ETC experience will look on a resume. For example, you will:

• Manage a program
• Supervise a committee
• Have greater visibility within the organization
• Make contacts with other businesses
• Generate positive publicity for your company
• Develop written and verbal communication skills