Go-Ahead Women: Meet Viorica

From Hotels to Highways – Meet Viorica

As part of our Go-Ahead Women – Driving Change initiative, we’re sharing real stories from women who’ve transformed their careers by becoming bus drivers. These stories are part of our upcoming Women Recruitment Day on Saturday, 26th June, where you can meet drivers like Viorica, hear their journeys, and even try out the driver’s seat yourself.

“You’re more capable than you think — just take the first step.” – Viorica

Viorica has been a valued member of Go-Ahead Ireland for three years. Before joining the team, she faced language challenges and worked various jobs -  from caring for a neighbour’s child to cleaning houses. Later, she spent seven years in the hotel industry as a cleaner, waitress, and accommodation supervisor.

Yet through it all, Viorica held onto a dream that many thought was impossible.

“I always told my mother I wanted to drive a bus. I like doing things that challenge me, especially when people say women can’t do them. I learn fast and never give up.”

Q&A with Viorica

1. What were you doing before becoming a bus driver, and what inspired the change?
“My English was not very good, so I couldn’t work right away. I looked after a neighbour’s child and cleaned houses. Later, I worked for seven years in a hotel - cleaning, waitressing, and supervising accommodation.
I always told my mother I wanted to drive a bus. I like doing things that challenge me, especially when people say women can’t do them. I learn fast and never give up.”

2. What were you feeling the day you applied?
“My family encouraged me to apply. I sent my CV and was so excited — I couldn’t believe I was doing it.”

3. What was your biggest worry before starting, and how did that change?
“At first, I worried about missing bus stops, especially at night. I didn’t want to miss anyone waiting. But once you focus on the road ahead, it becomes easier. You get used to it quickly.”

4. What would you say to other women who think, 'I could never drive a big bus'?
“I had a woman say to me today that she admired me for driving a bus. I told her it’s not a big deal!
If you know how to drive a car, you can drive a bus. Just take your time, allow yourself space, and stop if you need to.
Honestly, it’s easier than most people think.”

5. What kind of support helped you the most as a beginner?
“My instructor, Pat, in Go-Ahead was amazing. He believed in me when I was unsure and told me I was born to drive.
Thanks to him, I passed my bus test. My colleagues were also very supportive, always checking if I was okay or needed help.”

6. How has becoming a bus driver changed your life?
“I’ve become more patient. I manage my time better now and make sure I get enough rest. This job has helped me grow a lot.”

7. What surprised you most about the job?
“The people! I always expect the unexpected. One passenger told me I was amazing for doing this job, and that really made my day.”

8. What’s something passengers do that secretly makes your day?
“When passengers are kind and friendly. I try to please everyone, and when that kindness comes back to me, it makes me very happy.”

Want to Meet Women Like Viorica?

Join us at the Go-Ahead Women Recruitment Day to hear more inspiring stories, ask questions, and explore what a career in bus driving could look like for you.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, 26th July
• Location: Go-Ahead Training Centre
• Times:
  • Morning Group: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  • Afternoon Group: 12:45 PM – 2:45 PM

👉 Walk-ins are welcome at both time slots, but we encourage you to register in advance here.