2024 40 Under 40: Cinnamon T. Paltoo, MPA, SHRM-CP

Cinnamon T. Paltoo, MPA, SHRM-CP (Doctoral Candidate, '27), has more than 15 years of experience in the transit industry and currently holds the position of general superintendent of support services at the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's (MTA) Department of Buses. Colleagues say Paltoo’s leadership style is characterized by her exceptional problem-solving abilities, her fervent advocacy for employee engagement and talent acquisition and her dedication to workforce development, noting she goes above and beyond in her efforts to streamline processes, implement cutting-edge technology and centralize operations within her department while maintaining an approachable demeanor that fosters trust and collaboration among her colleagues.  

She spearheaded the public outreach efforts for the Bronx and Staten Island Express Bus Network Redesigns and played an integral role in the successful rollout of the Q52/53 Select Bus Service, New York's largest bus rapid transit corridor.  

Her ability to innovate and lead has proven critical in the development of MTA’s Department of Buses Workforce Development Program. She has tackled the industry-wide impacts resulting from the post-pandemic loss of traditional knowledge and bolstered succession planning initiatives through her ability to identify emerging trends and opportunities and leverage them to drive positive change and create value.    

As the co-founder and leader of Empowering Women in Transportation, an Employee Resource Group dedicated to supporting women in the public transportation sector, Paltoo has been instrumental in driving meaningful change within the industry and spends a lot of her time increasing the representation of women in leadership positions and advocates for a more inclusive workplace. She actively contributes to the betterment of her community, particularly in areas related to children and education. She is an advisor and mentor to students at Transit Tech High School and John Jay College of Criminal Justice. 

Is there a specific experience that led you to where you are today?    

 The experience above all that has led me to where I am today would have to be the support of my mentors, sponsors, coaches, family and friends. I have always had a village of people who believed in me and helped shape me to be the person I am today.    

What do you enjoy most about your job?    

One thing that I enjoy most about my job is the safe space created within the employee resource group, Empowering Women in Transportation.  This dynamic group has enabled us to create a bond and network that fosters healthy professional and personal relationships. From this group of leaders, we have developed strategic pathways for career growth, wellness, recognition and collaboration. This platform allows me  to celebrate women and men for the work (big or small) they do every day to ensure that we keep New York City moving.    

What’s the most challenging part of your job?    

One of the most challenging aspects of my job is implementing effective succession planning and developing the robust Workforce Development Program within the MTA’s Department of Buses The associated trainings required careful planning, coordination and foresight to ensure that the organization has the right talent in place for future leadership roles. Identifying and nurturing high-potential employees, creating career development pathways and addressing skill gaps are all critical components of these initiatives.   

Another significant challenge is gaining buy-in from managers who may not see the immediate need for training or development programs. Convincing these managers of the long-term benefits of investing in employee growth and skill enhancement can be a daunting task. It required effective communication, data-driven arguments, support from senior leadership and a clear demonstration of how such programs can benefit both the employees and the organization.   

In navigating these challenges, perseverance, strategic thinking and strong interpersonal skills are essential to drive successful outcomes in talent management and workforce development.   

Accomplishment you’re most proud of and why?    

I am most proud of the work that I’ve done in highlighting the critical contributions made by women across the transit industry. As collaborator and member of the Leadership Circle of Empowering Women in Transit, I am able to collaborate with leaders across the organization, as well as external stakeholders to promote diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.   

What is an accomplishment you would like to work towards in your career?    

I would like to follow-up on the attainment of my SHRM certification by obtaining my Ed. D in Organizational Leadership, Development and Change, for which I am presently enrolled and will commence studies in fall 2024. I want to someday enjoy a career centered on teaching, service and the elevation and promotion of the talented female colleagues within transportation. Representation of women in the field has lingered at roughly 18 percent for several years. I aspire to be a galvanizing force that helps women in the transportation industry springboard their careers to new heights, thus growing that 18 percent. 

Best advice/tip/best practice to share from your area of expertise?    

My best advice to anyone is to show up and be your authentic self! No one can be you. We all have a superpower or gift to share. Be willing to know your value and what you bring to the table, but also recognize the importance of sharing your gifts.