The shuttle system of the Colleges of Worcester Consortium is one of the Consortium's academic support services. The shuttle service was started in 1970 and was meant to facilitate cross-registration among the colleges in the Consortium. The shuttles can be used for much more, however. They enable students to do research at libraries at other colleges (or even the Worcester Public Library), to find transportation to locations which are near shuttle stops, to get to internships and work-study programs at community-based agencies, to attend events at other colleges, and to meet friends.
The shuttles transport approximately 1000 students per week. The vans start at 7:00 in the morning and run all day until their last stop at 9:30 in the evening.
The Consortium's main concern and focus on the shuttle service is on its safety, dependability, and reliability. Anything the Consortium can do to improve its shuttle service is given their utmost attention.
In the past, one fraternity at WPI maintained the vans and provided the drivers. This arrangement was very beneficial in terms of communication between the drivers. However, in recent years it has been difficult for this fraternity to supply drivers. Vans are now driven by both men and women primarily from WPI, but there are some Clark students who drive the vans as well. The system is overseen by two student managers. They are responsible for selecting drivers, setting up the driving schedule, and coordinating the maintenance of the vehicles.
Drivers go through a thorough training program. They also listen to speakers who talk about safety, liability, communications, and customer service. A driver's manual is also given to each driver. All drivers are required to participate in a class instructed at the Central Massachusetts Safety Council in West Boylston.
The Consortium shuttles provide a valuable service to the college community. Students and faculty should consider the advantages of utilizing this service.