Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Awards
Leadership & Volunteering
Generic

DIAMON TESFAY

Novato,CA

Summary

Graduate student in Transportation Management and current Service Planning Intern at VTA, offering a robust blend of hands-on experience in transit accessibility, data-driven planning, and stakeholder engagement. Proven ability to evaluate transit infrastructure for compliance and usability, conduct thorough field assessments, and support strategic planning initiatives. Committed to advancing equitable and efficient transportation systems through innovative solutions and collaborative efforts. Eager to leverage expertise to contribute to transformative projects that enhance community mobility and accessibility.

Overview

6
6
years of professional experience

Work History

Freight Forwarding Agent

Shipping International
Oakland, CA
02.2020 - Current
  • Directed international export operations for a $2 million logistics firm, ensuring adherence to international trade regulations and operational continuity.
  • Prepared and reviewed export documentation including Shipping Instruction Letters (SLIs), Verified Gross Mass (VGM) certifications, and bills of lading to meet regulatory and logistical standards.
  • Strategically negotiated shipping contracts and schedules with global carriers to minimize costs and enhance supply chain efficiency.
  • Cultivated and maintained key relationships with clients, freight companies, and regulatory bodies to support consistent and compliant service delivery.

Service Planning Intern

Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA)
San Jose, CA
01.2025 - 08.2025
  • Conducted field surveys to evaluate bus stop and facility compliance with ADA standards.
  • Collected and analyzed data to identify infrastructure gaps and accessibility challenges.
  • Supported strategic planning documents aligning with ADA regulations and VTA policies.
  • Participated in community outreach and addressed rider concerns to inform planning efforts.
  • Collaborated with planning and operations teams to improve safety, accessibility, and efficiency across the system.

Seasonal Specialist

Apple
Corte Madera, CA
11.2024 - 01.2025

-Provide exceptional customer service, guiding customers through product selection and delivering personalized recommendations based on their needs.

-Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of Apple products, including iPhones, iPads, Macs, and accessories, to enhance customer experience and drive sales.

-Assist with in-store product demonstrations and troubleshooting, helping customers make informed purchasing decisions and improving their overall satisfaction. -Support store operations during peak seasonal periods, efficiently handling high volumes of transactions and maintaining a positive environment.

-Work collaboratively with a team to uphold Apple’s brand standards and create a welcoming, inclusive environment for all customers.

-Utilize Apple’s internal systems to manage inventory, customer interactions, and point-of-sale transactions with accuracy and efficiency.

Contract Compliance Intern

Port of Oakland
Oakland, CA
06.2023 - 08.2023
  • Organized and facilitated three comprehensive networking events specifically designed to connect Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) with key service providers in areas such as website and app design, cost estimating, and proposal writing.
  • Identified and secured at least three service providers for each event, ensuring a diverse representation that included local businesses, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.
  • Conducted in-depth research using multiple databases to identify relevant firms, ensuring participation from eligible DBE businesses and strengthening local business network.

Education

Master of Science - Transportation Management

Mineta Transportation Institute
San Jose, CA
05.2027

Bachelor of Science - Business Management

San Jose State University
San Jose, CA
05.2024

Skills

  • ADA Compliance & Transit Accessibility Evaluation
  • Quantitative Data Analysis & Field Research
  • Urban Transportation Planning & Stakeholder Engagement
  • Microsoft Excel Introductory ArcGIS Transportation Databases
  • Port of Oakland SRD DBE database, California DBE database, Amigocloud, etc
  • Global Supply Chain & Export Logistics Management
  • Transportation planning
  • Freight consolidation
  • Documentation management
  • Import and export compliance
  • Multimodal transportation
  • Communication proficiency
  • Customer service skills
  • Paperwork preparation
  • Retail industry experience

Timeline

Service Planning Intern

Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA)
01.2025 - 08.2025

Seasonal Specialist

Apple
11.2024 - 01.2025

Contract Compliance Intern

Port of Oakland
06.2023 - 08.2023

Freight Forwarding Agent

Shipping International
02.2020 - Current

Master of Science - Transportation Management

Mineta Transportation Institute

Bachelor of Science - Business Management

San Jose State University

Awards

2024 ARTBA MTI Boost Scholar – American Road & Transportation Builders Association, 2023 Rosa Parks Scholar – Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO)

Leadership & Volunteering

  • President, Habesha Student Association, SJSU | 2023–2024
  • Head of Outreach, Habesha Student Association, SJSU | 2022–2023
DIAMON TESFAY