2024 40 Under 40: Christy McCree

Christy McCree, human resources manager for Alameda Contra Costa Transit (AC Transit), works to effectively handle recruitment, onboarding, training and performance management for the agency. McCree, who is complemented by an MBA, has worked to develop and execute comprehensive training programs for hiring managers to help enhance their ability to identify top talent and make strategic hiring decisions. McCree began her career at AC Transit as an intern and has spent the past 16 years with the agency, helping to improve transit in every position she has taken on. 

She utilizes novel recruitment methodologies, blending traditional approaches with new techniques to attract top-tier talent. Her focus remains on diversity and inclusion initiatives, as she works to implement organizational change by fostering inclusive hiring practices. McCree has also established strong partnerships with local educational institutions and community organizations and creates avenues for talent development and recruitment. 

McCree has worked to demonstrate her leadership skills, especially during times of organizational change and growth. She helped to maintain stability and continuity in recruitment processes while successfully adapting to evolving industry demands. Her talent acquisition expertise has helped the agency to expand its workforce with qualified professionals. 

She works to engage with industry associations, forums and conferences to stay up to date with emerging trends and best practices in talent acquisition. McCree has also driven initiatives for uniforms and housing in support of employees, which has expanded employment opportunities to those in need. She has collaborated with other HR teams inside and outside the agency, as well as with other transit agencies, to create an innovative onboarding experience for new employees.

McCree works collaboratively with AC Transit's business sciences department to utilize data and analytics to track the effectiveness of sourcing channels, evaluate the efficiency of the recruitment process, identify areas for improvement and predict future talent needs. 

Accomplishment you’re most proud of and why? 

I am extremely proud of where I am in my career journey. Starting as an intern and now holding the position of talent acquisition manager at AC Transit has been a challenging, yet rewarding path. Along the way, I've encountered both triumphs and setbacks but each experience has shaped me into the professional I am today. 

The values and strong work ethic instilled in me early on by my mother have been pivotal in my journey. From my upbringing through my education, integrity—doing what's right even when unnoticed—has always been a guiding principle. I carry this commitment with me in every role, striving to embody the colleague, teammate and leader I admire and aspire to be. 

Reflecting on my career progression, I am grateful for the opportunities AC Transit has provided and inspired by the principles that have guided me.

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

An accomplishment I am eager to pursue in my career is developing a robust succession planning program at AC Transit. This program would focus on effectively transferring knowledge and skills to future transit leaders, ensuring continuity and innovation in leadership roles. By implementing structured mentorship, training and career development initiatives, I aim to cultivate a pipeline of talented individuals who are prepared to step into key positions within the organization. This commitment to succession planning not only strengthens AC Transit's leadership bench, but also fosters a culture of growth and excellence throughout the transit community.

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

Take the time to understand the demographics and cultural differences of the community your organization serves. This understanding will guide your recruitment strategies and help you attract candidates who can effectively connect with and serve the community. Make diversity and inclusion integral to your recruitment strategy, not just a checkbox.

Actively seek out candidates from diverse backgrounds, perspectives and experiences who can bring unique insights and skills to your organization. Find joy in what you do every day. When you genuinely love your work, it energizes you and fuels your dedication.

Embrace the opportunity to make a positive impact in the community. Build strong relationships with your team and stakeholders —they are your support system and allies in achieving shared goals. Your passion and enthusiasm will not only inspire others, but also drive meaningful contributions to your organization's mission.