After 40 years of service to SEPTA, a pioneering train operator is calling it a career.
According to the transit agency, Jackie Pettyjohn has made history as SEPTA’s first female train driver. On Friday, she was showered with love by community members after completing her final journey from Philadelphia International Airport to Suburban Station.
Friends, colleagues and loved ones surprised Pettyjohn with balloons, cheers and well-deserved applause during her final stop to celebrate her remarkable career. After leaving the train, SEPTA’s “first lady” hugged well-wishers.
Thomas Cleveland
“Jackie Pettyjohn was a pioneer for female train drivers. SEPTA is grateful for her 40 years of service and we wish her all the best in her retirement,” the transit agency wrote in a statement to CBS News Philadelphia on Saturday.
Pettyjohn first found the SEPTA opening through an advertisement for the position at the Philadelphia Inquirer in August 1984, according to a SEPTA Facebook post. A few weeks later the job was hers.
“She said she had no intention of staying, but eventually she fell in love with the job and found a way to balance work and family despite the demanding hours,” the Facebook post said in part.
Hats off to this pioneer! CBS News Philadelphia wishes her a restful retirement.