Nicole Ramos is a fifth-generation Californian whose life and leadership are deeply rooted in the Inland Empire. Born in Montebello and raised in Rancho Cucamonga—back when the area was still surrounded by vineyards—Nicole grew up in a household shaped by small business, sacrifice, and community care. Her mother ran a home-based day care for 40+ years, welcoming children who later returned as parents themselves. Nicole learned early what it meant to share her space, her belongings, and her mother’s time. “We lived it,” she says. “Small business is family.” That tradition of mutual care and collective responsibility—so central to Latino family life—shaped Nicole’s values from childhood. Her son, now a college student, was lovingly cared for by his grandmother in the same Rancho Cucamonga home that buzzed with the energy of their family-run day care. Nicole still calls it home—a place where caregiving, entrepreneurship, and generational support have always lived side by side. Nicole’s upbringing instilled a profound understanding of the challenges small businesses face — long hours, financial strain, and the emotional labor of caring for others. Her mother’s compassion was unwavering, often refusing to raise fees even in the face of rising costs. That caring foundation guides Nicole’s leadership today.

A first-generation college graduate, Nicole earned her degree from the University of La Verne; she later worked in its Public Affairs Office and at the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute. Her passion for communications and public service led her into the transit industry, where she has made a lasting mark. As the single mother of an adopted son, her priority was work/family balance. Nicole serves in downtown San Bernardino. Her leadership style reflects the values she was raised with: professionalism rooted in family. Half of her department are Latinas, and many of her team members have worked alongside her for decades. “We bring a different perspective,” she says. “We ride the bus, attend community events, and build relationships with the people we serve, many of whom are small business owners.”

One of Nicole’s proudest accomplishments is the Free Fares for School Program, which she spearheaded to provide transit access for K–12 students. Initially launched by Omnitrans, the successful program expanded countywide and has served over 3 million students to date. Her commitment to equity is also evident in her work with the West Valley Business Outreach Program, which supports small businesses impacted by transit construction. Nicole’s career began in an unexpected place — working in marketing for a NASCAR team in Georgia. That experience, coupled with the messages she heard growing up about women’s roles, fueled her belief that education and independence are essential. “You can have a family and a career,” she insists. “You can do both well, as so many Latinas are proving today.” Her dedication has earned her national recognition, including three Ad Wheel Awards from the American Public Transportation Association and selection for APTA’s prestigious leadership program. Even more importantly, she has been recognized as a “Volunteer of the Year” for her son’s school and sports team, a testament to her continued commitment to family and community.