Meet Marqueita Bowen | Locomotive Engineer/Advocate

We had the good fortune of connecting with Marqueita Bowen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marqueita, how do you think about risk?
I’ve learned that risk is often the doorway to purpose. I don’t take risks casually, but I do take them intentionally when something aligns with my values, my growth, or a calling that I can’t ignore.
A defining moment was when I left the State Attorney’s Office to become a locomotive engineer. On paper, it didn’t make sense because it meant walking away from stability and a clear career track. But I trusted my instincts and took that leap. That decision shaped me more than I ever expected.
As a Locomotive Engineer I faced suicide personally on my train, and that experience changed the way I see the world. It also showed me that risk isn’t only about career moves. Sometimes it’s about emotional courage. A lot of people stay silent after trauma, but I felt called to speak up.
So now I’m taking another major risk by stepping into advocacy, sharing my story, and speaking publicly about mental health, vocational trauma, and suicide prevention. It’s vulnerable. It’s personal. But it’s also purpose driven. Stepping out on faith has led me to every meaningful chapter of my life.
For me, risk isn’t about being fearless. It’s about being willing. Willing to grow, willing to pivot, and willing to use my experiences to make a difference.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career journey has been anything but traditional. I went from working at the State Attorney’s Office in a structured 9 to 5 environment to stepping into a completely different world on the railroad, a blue-collar industry where nothing is predictable and every day demands grit. That transition alone sets me apart, and it’s one of the decisions that shaped who I am today. I started as a transportation specialist, worked my way up to conductor, and eventually became a locomotive engineer. What makes that journey even more meaningful is that I am part of the three percent of Black women in this field.
Being in a male-dominated industry pushed me to grow in ways I never expected. It taught me how to adapt, how to communicate, and how to hold my own without losing who I am. I’m proud of the fact that I built my career through hard work and perseverance, not shortcuts.
None of it was easy. I had to prove myself repeatedly, navigate spaces where I was often the only woman and learn not to internalize other people’s doubts or assumptions. Along the way, I learned not to take things personally and to silence negative self-talk. That shift in mindset changed everything for me.
One of the most defining moments of my career was experiencing suicide personally on my train. That moment reshaped my purpose and opened my eyes to how deeply vocational trauma impacts frontline workers. It’s what pushed me toward advocacy. Today, I’m stepping into a new chapter where I speak openly about mental health, vocational trauma, and suicide prevention. I’ve become a safe space, not just for others, but for myself too.
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that success isn’t just about how much money you make or what title you hold. Success is how you show up, how you use your gifts, and how well you maintain balance mentally, physically, and emotionally. I want the world to know that my story is about faith, resilience, and purpose. My brand represents breaking barriers, speaking truth, and reminding people that mental health is real and taking care of it is strength, not weakness.
I got to where I am by showing up, doing the work, staying grounded, and being willing to take risks even when the path wasn’t clear. And now I’m using my experiences to help others feel seen, supported, and empowered to care for themselves while pursuing their own purpose.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting Miami for a week, honestly with my type B personality we would just wing it we’d hit up the best sushi and seafood spots, check out a lounge with music and hookah, and spend plenty of time on the beach just catching up and soaking up the vibes. We’d explore Wynwood for the street art, Little Havana for the culture and food, and South Beach for people watching and energy. Maybe do a night at an hotel… She’s most likely making the actual reservations and plans for the week she’s really good at that.. shoutout to Missy my bestie

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Shoutout to my higher self, always pulling and pushing me to dig deeper and take risk.

My children who motivate me to be the best version of myself I know there watching.

And to black women on the journey of self discovery and seeking a full life

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marqueita8?igsh=MW16ZTBxdGcwZjBycg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr