To promote women’s access to jobs traditionally dominated by men, Baja California’s governor, Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda, led the graduation ceremony for 13 women from the fourth and fifth cohorts of the Mujeres al volante (Women behind the wheel) program. This initiative has trained over 100 female public transportation drivers across the state.
The governor praised the determination and courage of the women participating in the program, which is part of Baja California’s Comprehensive Mobility System with a Gender Perspective—the first of its kind in Mexico.
“It fills me with joy to see other states adopting our model. We will continue developing programs for these incredible women who lead with their hearts,” she stated.
Ávila Olmeda emphasized that this initiative is part of the state government’s broader efforts to assist independent and vulnerable women, as well as those who have experienced violence, through programs such as Tarjeta violeta (Violet card) and Escuadrón violeta (Violet squad), along with various training and workshop opportunities.
“Mujeres al volante has undoubtedly been a life-changing program. In this administration, women’s voices are heard, and efforts are made to aid the most vulnerable,” she added.
María Venegas Ramírez, a graduate of the first cohort and now a driver on Mexicali’s Eje route, shared how the program changed her life:
“Two years ago, I found out about this program, and it taught me everything—from parking to understanding the dimensions of a bus. I’m so grateful to the governor for pushing for equality, allowing us to take on jobs that were once exclusive to men. This job is breaking stereotypes,” she said.
As part of the event, the governor also oversaw the launch of a new fleet of 25 buses to enhance safety and service on Mexicali’s Eje and Robledo routes. Thirteen of these buses will be operated by women.
The units are equipped with advanced technology, including prepaid card validators, secure fare collection systems, surveillance cameras, and a panic button linked to the C5 security center.
Jorge Gutiérrez Topete, head of Baja California’s Institute for Sustainable Mobility (IMOS), noted that the buses were acquired through a fund designated for women, aiming to have female drivers operating all units before 2025 ends.
Reflecting on the governor’s efforts, Alejandro Arregui Ibarra, Secretary of Labor and Social Welfare, noted how her work has dismantled barriers, opening doors for women to assume the vital role of transporting Baja California’s families.
