Celebrating the best of Rail: Our 2025 Employees of the Year
Each year, our King County Metro Rail Division grows, evolves and reaches new milestones—and behind every success are the people who make it happen. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce our 2025 Rail Employees of the Year.
“Each of these employees represents the dedication, heart and excellence that define our Rail Division,” said Metro General Manager Michelle Allison. “Their work not only keeps our system running—it strengthens the experience for the growing number of riders who depend on us. I’m incredibly proud of this year’s honorees and grateful for the passion they bring to serving our region every day.”
The Rail Division operates and maintains Sound Transit’s Link light rail and Seattle Streetcar systems, providing essential rail transit services across King County. Among other accomplishments, this spring, the Rail Division successfully launched the 2 Line Link light rail extension over the I-90 bridge, the world’s first passenger rail on a floating bridge.
The employees were honored last week at a ceremony attended by senior leaders from Metro and Sound Transit. Metro Deputy General Manager Ernest Kandilige told them they exemplified teamwork, commitment and pride.
“Each of you represents the very best of Mero, and it’s an honor to celebrate you here today,” Kandilige said.
The best of the best
Selected first as Employees of the Quarter and then elevated by their peers, these standout colleagues embody excellence.
“It’s never easy to choose just a few people from such a large and talented team, especially as Rail continues to grow and evolve,” said Evan Inkster, Rail Division Director. “Their contributions represent the very best of Rail.”
Jaime Campeggio, Administrator III – Strategy and Administration
Jaime joined Rail in 2022 as a Link Operator and later supported the Vehicle Maintenance team as a Transit Admin Support Specialist (TASS) III. Today, she serves as an Administrator III, where she continues to support her team with dedication and a positive attitude.
“This recognition is a testament to her outstanding performance, dedication, and consistent commitment to excellence. What truly sets Jaime apart is not just the quality of work, but the positive impact she has on those around her. Her professionalism, collaboration and leadership make our entire team stronger.”
– Allison Pierce, Administrator IV
Habtam Mengistu, Station Custodian – Maintenance
Habtam has been a Link station Custodian since 2024, and she’s made a big impact in a short time. Her high standards and attention to detail caught the attention of our partners at Sound Transit whoHer level of care for our facilities directly translates into care of our riders and our community. Metro is committed to providing safe, clean and reliable service, and the way people experience a station matters. With Habtam on our Station Custodial Team, that experience is in very good hands.
“Habtam is reserved and quiet. Sometimes, the quiet folks get missed but her work ethic and dedication to the task at hand make her stand out. Habtam is a pleasure to work with and is always doing her job with a smile. She is reliable and a valuable member of our team. We are very lucky to have her at Rail.”
– Francisco Brito, Facilities Chief
Michael Woldemichael, Rail Supervisor in Training – Operations
Michael has been a Link Operator since 2023 and recently began his journey as a Rail Supervisor in Training. He brings positive energy to every interaction and leaves a great impression on everyone he meets.
“I have witnessed Michael working with student operators, diligently explaining the details of the job with patience and enthusiasm. He is a leader among his peers and respected as a team player within our operations group. He comes to work with a smile on his face, a gleam in his eye, and the willingness to do his job above and beyond the standard expectation.”
– Kevin McPherson, Rail Supervisor
Join us in congratulating these Rail Division 2025 Employees of the Year—and in celebrating the exceptional work happening across Rail every day.
