ABQ Times

ALBUQUERQUE – ABQ RIDE will host its 3rd Annual ABQ RIDES Car Show, inviting the community to showcase "any vehicle that rolls" free of charge on Saturday, September 21 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Northwest Transit Center located at the corner of Coors and Ellison.

The event includes live music by Cruisin’ to the Oldies, raffle giveaways, food trucks with free drinks, hand-welded trophies by ABQ RIDE mechanics for winning rides, and job resources.

“It’s a natural intersection for our transit system to host a car show celebrating the vibrant car culture we appreciate here in Albuquerque,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “It’s also a chance for any car aficionados out there to come check out the great career opportunities available with our transit system.”

Last year’s event attracted hundreds of attendees and nearly 60 featured vehicles. In addition to showcasing vehicles, ABQ RIDE will highlight hiring opportunities.

“Our department jokes that this event is really a hiring event disguised as a car show,” said Transit Director Leslie Keener. “But in reality, we wanted to create a great event for the public that relates to our core service of transportation while also getting the word out to the community that we’re hiring.”

ABQ RIDE is urgently recruiting mechanics and is offering substantial hiring bonuses for Mechanic II and III roles ranging from $1,000-$5,000 dependent upon CDL status. On-site HR staff will be available to assist with applications and provide information about mechanic roles and other transit job opportunities.

“ABQ RIDE needs mechanics to work on our transit system of the future,” said Deputy Director Bobby Sisneros. “We hope the same people who like to wrench on lowriders and classic cars might be interested in learning the ropes of electric, compressed natural gas, diesel, and alternative fuel buses too – and if you don’t have a CDL, we’ll ensure you get one free of charge.”

Anything that rolls is welcome at this car event. “This year, we’re hoping to bring back last year’s great energy with an even broader variety like lowrider bikes, motorcycles, classics, and anything community members are proud to show off,” said Marketing Manager Raul de Lara.

Exhibitors are encouraged to bring water, shade devices, and chairs. To showcase a vehicle at this family-friendly event, please fill out this form. Available jobs can be found at ABQRIDE.com.

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ABQ RIDE’s mission is to provide the community with safe, clean, and reliable transportation.