Dedication, leadership, and positive impact
By Nick Stanton
The task of keeping a massive city like Los Angeles running smoothly is nothing short of monumental. It requires a special kind of team, equipped with a unique set of skills, to not only maintain but also transform a city as vast and dynamic as LA. Among the leaders shouldering this immense responsibility is Stacie Endler, whose unwavering commitment and dynamic leadership have solidified her role as a pivotal figure at the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority. Known for her exceptional work ethic and hands-on leadership, Stacie is much more than just a manager—she's the backbone of support for her team and the countless commuters who rely on Metro every day. While not every hero wears a cape, Stacie’s tireless efforts make her a true hero in the world of parking and public transportation.
Managing the movement of millions of people in Los Angeles, one of the world’s largest and most complex urban environments, is no easy task. The city's sprawling geography, coupled with congested highways and limited room for transit expansion, presents unique challenges. Despite this, Stacie has proven herself as a pivotal leader at LA Metro, overseeing an intricate network that includes buses, rail lines, parking systems, and more. Her leadership has transformed the way Angelenos experience public transportation, helping to bridge gaps across a city often known for its car-centric culture.
Since joining LA Metro in 2015, Stacie has risen through the ranks, starting as a Manager of Transportation Planning and Parking Management and advancing to her current role as Senior Manager of Transportation Planning and Transit Demand Management (TDM) Programs. Under her guidance, LA Metro has tackled the daunting tasks of modernizing aging infrastructure, integrating cutting-edge technology, and promoting sustainable transportation solutions like biking, ridesharing, and TDM initiatives.
On The Front Lines
As Los Angeles prepares for the future, including the upcoming 2028 Olympics, Stacie’s vision and leadership are helping to shape a more connected and sustainable city. Her ability to balance the logistical, environmental, and human elements of transit planning makes her indispensable, not only to the evolution of LA Metro but to the ongoing transformation of Los Angeles itself.
Shannon Hamelin, Senior Director at LA Metro, describes Stacie as “the heart and soul of the Parking Management team, and the kind of leader who shines brightest when things are toughest. She’s the first to jump in, roll up her sleeves, and ensure the job gets done right. Her tenacity, drive, and work ethic are truly inspirational, offering the perfect example of what a great leader should be. You don’t encounter that every day.”
Stacie is not content to simply oversee operations from a distance. Instead, she consistently "gets in the trenches" with her coworkers, demonstrating an inspiring commitment to the day-to-day challenges of running such a massive transit system. Her presence is felt not just in her managerial decisions but in her willingness to help wherever needed, whether it’s guiding a new employee or assisting with complex issues that require immediate attention.
No Small Feat
Her most recent achievement, a complete overhaul of LA Metro’s secure bicycle parking program, was the result of years of meticulous planning. Stacie dedicated four years to researching best practices, gathering feedback from transit users, and designing every detail of the new bicycle lockers, right down to the materials used. Her goal was to create a seamless experience that improved access and availability for all cyclists using the transit system. What was once an "exclusive" program, requiring preregistration and offering no onsite options for secure parking, was transformed into an "inclusive" daily program with onsite registration—giving every cyclist the opportunity for secure, convenient parking.
See more about the Metro bike program here: Bikes on Metro
Her leadership extends beyond the technical and logistical, as she has also built a culture of teamwork and positivity within the Metro. She is a source of encouragement, always quick to offer a kind word or a solution during stressful situations. In an industry where pressure can run high, Stacie is a steady, calming force that both her coworkers and riders can depend on.
"There are countless examples, like the one above, that showcase the tremendous impact Stacie has had at LA Metro. It has been incredibly rewarding to witness her growth into the leader she is today. I am proud, grateful, and deeply appreciative to have Stacie on our team, and even prouder to call her a friend," added Shannon Hamelin.
Through her dedication, compassion, and unwavering leadership, Stacie Endler is truly an unsung hero of Los Angeles Metro. Her efforts keep one of the country’s largest transit systems running smoothly, and her team thriving in the process. Congratulations to Stacie on being our very first Unsung Hero! We couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.
Do you know an unsung hero who deserves to be featured in our next article? Reach out to one of our team members, visit our website, or send us an email at info@athenapsg.com to submit your nomination.
About Athena Partners Strategy Group
Leveraging a specialized network of partners, APSG is a governmental relations and technology consultancy guiding organizations in developing new business and launching solutions across parking, transportation, curb management, rideshare, law enforcement, public safety and sustainability sectors. More at athenapsg.com
About Nick Stanton
Nick has held sales management and business development executive positions with industry leading companies serving government, education, and commercial markets for nearly two decades. His experience includes products and services in the parking enforcement, LPR technology, mobility, EV, and curb management. He has gained a strong following among customers and vendors as a result of his no-nonsense, results oriented, approach to business and his focus on building trust by “telling it how it is”. You will find dealing with Nick a refreshingly straightforward experience.
Written by Nick Stanton, Managing Partner, Athena Partners Strategy Group info@athenapsg.com
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