
Professional Dispatching and Scheduling Course (PDS)
10/15/2025 - 10/16/2025
Description
The CTAA Professional Dispatching and Scheduling Course (PDS) is a two-day certification course meant to provide a greater understanding of the role of Dispatchers and Schedulers in supporting the mission of the transit system. The course provides a basic understanding of the call intake, scheduling and dispatching processes for the less experienced dispatcher while also providing a more in-depth look at compliance requirements and customer service responsibilities associated with the various positions.
Participants will gain a thorough understanding of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Title VI and other Federal compliance requirements impacting decisions made by Dispatchers and Schedulers. Additionally, participants will learn industry best practices for achieving efficient, productive and safe scheduling and dispatching of revenue vehicles. Risk management skills will be covered to provide participants with methods and processes to respond to vehicle breakdowns, disruptive passengers or accidents.
The course features several exercises allowing participants to work through scenarios they may face every day or once in a career and the preparation required to respond to situations with professionalism and efficiency. Participants will use forms, tools and policies vetted by subject matter experts for compliance with FTA and other Federal programs associated with provision of transit services.
This course will not only provide each participant with the knowledge to obtain certification, it will also enhance their skills and leadership techniques to respond to daily challenges with confidence.
Agenda – Day One:
- Section 1 – Impacts of PDS
- Section 2 – Points of Contact
- Section 3 – Scheduling
- Section 4 – Mobility Access
- Section 5 – Communication
Agenda – Day Two:
- Section 6 – Strengths of Policy
- Section 7 – Dispatching
- Section 8 – Review
Certification Exam
Please note that your lodging arrangements must be made separately, but a hotel room block is available at the Courtyard Mt. Pleasant for $98.00 per night. Last Day to Book: Monday, September 15, 2025
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Free to Michigan transit agency staff through the Rural Transit Assistance Program (RTAP).
2400 East Campus Drive
Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858 United States
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