SacRT’s Transit Academy

SacRT’s Transit Academy is a free six-week program designed to educate and engage members of the community in the inner workings of public transit. Participants learn how SacRT plans, operates, and innovates transit services that shape the Sacramento region’s mobility future.

Since the first class launched in 2019, SacRT has hosted five Transit Academy sessions, with the most recent class graduating 32 participants in June 2025. Each class brings together a diverse group of community members who are passionate about making a difference in regional transportation.

We’re proud of our growing network of over 150 Transit Academy graduates, who now serve as informed ambassadors for public transit in their neighborhoods, workplaces, and cities.


A Look at Our Past Classes

SacRT Transit Academy has held five successful sessions:

  • 2019 – Inaugural class

  Transit Academy class of 2019.

  • 2021 – Relaunched post-pandemic

Transit Academy Class of 2021.

  • 2022 – Continued growth and expanded outreach

Transit Academy Class of 2022

  • 2023 – Strong civic representation

Transit Academy Class of 2023

  • 2025 – Our most recent class with 32 graduates

Transit Academy class of 2025

 


What Do Participants Learn?

The Academy dives deep into SacRT’s work across the region, covering topics such as:

  • The benefits of public transit for communities and the economy

  • How SacRT is managed and funded

  • The process of planning and operating transit service

  • How SacRT collaborates with cities, counties, and other agencies

  • Tools and infrastructure that shape where and how transit is delivered

Each session features guest speakers, interactive presentations, behind-the-scenes tours, and meaningful discussion.


Who Should Apply?

We welcome applicants who are:

  • Residents, business owners, or students within Sacramento County

  • Community leaders, elected or appointed officials, or institutional representatives

  • Transit riders or individuals interested in learning more about public transportation

  • At least 18 years old and committed to attending at least 4 of the 6 sessions

No transit experience is necessary — just a desire to engage and learn.


Why Join the Transit Academy?

By completing the Academy, participants:

  • Become knowledgeable ambassadors for public transit

  • Gain behind-the-scenes access to SacRT leadership and operations

  • Help shape transit’s future through community conversations and input

  • Build relationships with other engaged community members

As a final step, participants are asked to share what they’ve learned with their community through a project or outreach activity.


What’s Next?

Our next SacRT Transit Academy session is planned for 2026. Stay tuned for updates on when applications will open.

In the meantime, explore highlights from past classes and see how Transit Academy graduates are making an impact across the region.