Meet the Travel Trainer: On the Move with Karla
What does a Travel Trainer actually do all day? Where’s their favorite Metro stop? And what’s the one transit tip they wish everyone knew?
This month, we’re putting Karla, one of ECNV’s Travel Trainers, in the spotlight! Travel Trainers work one-on-one with people with disabilities to build the skills and confidence to use buses, Metro, and other transportation options in ways that work for them.
Next Stop: Get to Know Karla
How long have you been a Travel Trainer? 12+ yrs
What’s your favorite part of Travel Training?
I enjoy assisting clients, developing new skills, and empowering clients to achieve their goals. I also value spending plenty of time outdoors, getting fresh air, and maintaining an active lifestyle by averaging approximately 5,000–10,000 steps per day.
What’s your #1 tip for someone learning to ride independently?
Use all the technology available to plan your trip and create a personalized travel experience. It’s amazing how an app can tailor your itinerary to your interests, preferences, and needs, making your journey easier, more enjoyable, and more memorable.
Favorite Metro station or bus route—and why?
Herndon literally feels like home to me. I also love not having to drive to my clients’ homes because it saves me from dealing with traffic and makes my day less stressful and more enjoyable.”
Most memorable Travel Training moment?
I took a group of senior citizens on a trip to the Wharf, and one of the clients experienced a medical emergency. Fortunately, a senior center staff member was present to assist with the situation. This experience taught me the importance of having at least two travel trainers on group outings to ensure everyone’s safety and provide support in case of an emergency. Thankfully, the client made a full recovery, and the rest of the group was able to enjoy the trip. This experience reinforced the importance of preparation, teamwork, and having an emergency plan when organizing group outings.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about Travel Training?
You learn a lot from getting lost and making mistakes, as long as you learn from those experiences and try not to repeat them. One of the best things about using public transportation is that it allows you to experience your surroundings from a different perspective. You can take in the scenery, notice details you might otherwise miss and become more aware of your environment than you would while driving. These experiences help you build confidence, become more independent, and develop valuable navigation skills.
Just for fun: If you could take public transportation anywhere in the world, where would you go?
I would love to visit the Lofoten Islands in Norway to experience the magnificent aurora borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. I would enjoy flying over breathtaking Arctic landscapes, embarking on a scenic fjord cruise surrounded by majestic mountains and crystal-clear waters, and taking in the beauty of Norway’s dramatic coastline. Witnessing the colorful Northern Lights dance across the Arctic sky would be a magical and unforgettable experience. Combining the thrill of flying, the serenity of a fjord cruise, and the wonder of nature would make this trip truly extraordinary.
