Every March, we celebrate Women's History Month and the women who have built, shaped and improved our region and world.
To commemorate Women’s History Month and International Women's Day (March 8), we are highlighting women in the transit industry while also recognizing the need for more equity and inclusion.
A key member of that team is Abril Silva.
I absolutely love the community and people I work with.
She joined the agency in 2019 as an intern before graduating from the University of Washington, and now works as our Equitable Engagement Specialist. The theme of International Women's Day this year is #EmbraceEquity.
"Women’s History Month is important to me because it’s a time to recognize and honor the accomplishments of women throughout the years. It’s also a time to reflect and remind ourselves of the sacrifices women made and still make to make the world a better place," she said.
Being a part of the Women Empowering Sound Transit (WEST) employee group gives her "the opportunity to engage, connect and collaborate with folks about topics that are important and impact us, not only on a professional level but personal as well."
Now, on to the questions!
Q: What do you tell your friends you do for work?
A: I tell them I work on supporting staff regarding opportunities to improve our engagement with the public, communities, and organizations.
Q: What’s your passion outside of your job?
A: It’s hard to name just one! I’m big into baking, but I also love going on walks with my dog, spending time with my family and friends, reading, listening to audiobooks and podcasts, and of course, traveling.
Q: What attracted you to work at Sound Transit?
A: When I was applying for internships my junior year of college, I thought it was really cool that Sound Transit had a year-long internship opportunity, so I went for it and have stayed here since. I absolutely love the community and people I work with.
Q: How do you get to work?
A: Light rail!
Q: What three things would you take with you to a desert island (besides food and water)?
A: Am I stranded on this island? If so, my dog, a guide to survival and some matches. If it’s for a vacation, my dog, my phone and a few really good books.