Inspiring Future Leaders: Groveport Madison High School's Trip to COTA

Tuesday April 22, 2025 

Exploring Careers and Community Impact at COTA

On April 22, 2025, students from Groveport Madison High School had the unique opportunity to visit the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) as part of a career exploration and civic engagement experience organized in collaboration with Lead The Way. This immersive field trip aimed to expose students to meaningful career paths in public service while fostering a deeper understanding of how organizations like COTA serve the community beyond transportation.

Learning Through History and Innovation

The day began with an engaging and informative PowerPoint presentation that walked students through COTA’s rich history and longstanding commitment to the Central Ohio community. Highlights included the organization's innovative efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly its initiative to provide Wi-Fi-enabled buses to students without internet access—a powerful example of how public service adapts to meet critical needs. Students learned how COTA’s role extends far beyond buses and schedules; it's an essential service provider during times of crisis and change.

Behind the Scenes: Touring COTA’s Operations

Students were then guided through a comprehensive facility tour, offering an inside look at the mechanics of public transit—from maintenance bays to dispatch centers. This hands-on experience revealed the wide array of career opportunities available within the transit sector, from vehicle maintenance and operations to customer service, logistics, technology, and administration. The exposure allowed students to envision future roles for themselves in fields they may not have previously considered.

Inspiration Through Storytelling and Resilience

Throughout the visit, COTA professionals shared personal stories of perseverance, growth, and dedication. These testimonies resonated deeply with the students, many of whom left inspired to overcome their own challenges and pursue their aspirations with renewed purpose. Hearing directly from employees who have navigated adversity reinforced the value of resilience, goal setting, and community service.

Why This Experience Matters

This visit to COTA exemplifies the transformative power of community partnerships in shaping the next generation of leaders. By connecting students with real-world professionals and tangible career pathways, this experience fostered both awareness and ambition. It also underscored how organizations like COTA contribute to the social fabric of our cities—not only by moving people, but by mobilizing progress.

Groveport Madison High School and Lead The Way extend sincere gratitude to COTA and its dedicated staff for their hospitality, inspiration, and continued investment in youth development. These kinds of collaborations are essential in building brighter futures.

Moving the City—and Our Students—Forward

Experiences like this reinforce Lead The Way’s mission to equip youth with the tools, exposure, and confidence to lead with purpose. Together—with committed partners like COTA—we are proud to continue leading the way forward.