A Legacy of Leadership: Sister Sandra Pineda Sets an Example Behind the Wheel and at Home

A NOTE FROM SMART NEWS: As we celebrate Women’s History Month, SMART-Transportation Division will once again feature stories highlighting some of our fellow sisters and their contributions to their craft and our union. Our first story in the series is particularly special and one that we are excited to share: it was written by a member’s daughter to show how proud she is of her mother’s accomplishments and leadership. We invite you to meet Sister Sandra Pineda, whose story is told with love and pride by her daughter, Gabby Grace Venegas. This article has been slightly edited for clarity.

I am honored to write this article for my mother, who has shown me that loving our Lord, hard work and dedication to others are not just valued, but a way of life.

For more than two decades, my mom has built a career defined by dedication, service, and an unwavering commitment to others. What began as a mission to provide financial stability for her three daughters has grown into a legacy of leadership within LACMTA and SMART-TD. Through her work as a bus operator, union leader, advocate, and mentor, she has consistently stepped forward to support those around her.  

My mom began working for Metro 23 years ago as a single mother determined to create a stable and secure home for our family. With two older brothers already employed by the company, she joined Metro and quickly demonstrated the work ethic and resilience that would define her career. She worked 20 years full-time and three years part-time, balancing long hours with the unexpected challenges that come with life as both a transit operator and a single parent. No matter the circumstances, her focus remained the same: to provide for her daughters and build a future rooted in opportunity.  

She also dedicated five years to the LACMTA Coffee Club Committee, strengthening workplace community and connection. Through this involvement, she built meaningful relationships and earned the trust and support that later helped her secure election as SMART-TD Local Secretary 1563. And if you know my mom, you know she is going to make sure you enjoy a good meal! Her generosity and hospitality are just as strong as her advocacy.  

During her time as a bus operator, she saw firsthand how quickly accidents and hardship could affect her coworkers. Whether injuries occurred on or off the job, many operators were left navigating uncertainty and financial stress. Recognizing the need for strong, trustworthy leadership, she ran for SMART-TD Local Secretary 1563. For the past 12 years, she has served in this role with unmatched dedication.  

Her commitment to others extends beyond office hours. With the support of my stepdad, Ricky Pineda, she has spent countless personal hours taking calls and working through problems for bus operators. I have seen her walk out of a movie theater, step away from family dinners, and even answer calls while sitting in my hospital recovery room after the birth of my youngest child, all to ensure that someone in need felt supported. When operators call her with worry in their voices, she listens patiently. By the end of the conversation, you can hear the difference. They are calmer, reassured, and confident that someone truly cares. My mom does not simply provide answers: she provides comfort and trust.  

10 years ago, she expanded her service by working with American Journey Financial Life (formerly known as UTUIA) as an LIR (Local Insurance Representative). Her goal was to ensure operators would have income protection if they were injured, became ill, or faced unexpected circumstances. Through this work, she has helped countless families maintain financial stability during difficult times. The gratitude she receives speaks volumes, and not only because she provides information, but because she makes every member feel heard and valued.  

Her leadership extends beyond her primary roles. She has served as an Alternate Legislative Representative for three years and has been a member of the Bus and Transit Assault Prevention and Safety (BTAPS) Committee as a Trustee for two years, working on both the local and federal levels to advocate for bus operator safety.  

At home, her greatest accomplishment is the example she has set for us. As the oldest of three girls, I can honestly say I have never seen anyone work as hard as my mother. She has shown my sisters and me what it means to be strong, independent, and opinionated women who refuse to accept limitations. She has always told us, “When there’s a will, there’s a way.” Those words have guided our lives and instilled in us the importance of education, because, as she says, “no one can take that away from you.” 

Today, my sisters are both in college, with one working towards her associate degree at a community college and the other in her second semester at a Cal State, majoring in sociology. I graduated with my bachelor’s degree, double majoring in history and ethnic studies. I recently completed my teaching credential program and am now applying for teaching positions.  

My mom often talks about her legacy. To me, her legacy is not just the titles she holds or the years she has served. Her legacy is the lesson she has instilled in us: that a first-generation Chicana woman can achieve anything, that “no” and “I can’t” are not options, and that true success is measured by how many people you lift along the way.  

That is my mom’s legacy.  And for that, Mom, thank you.