TTA Member Spotlight: Marrianne Blessinger, President, All Island Transportation

Professional

How long have you been a member of TTA? My paper files have my renewal back from 1998 when dues were $18 a vehicle with the ITLA. (International taxicab and livery Association.) We were registered as Ollies Airport Service back then.  I guess that makes it 28 years. 

Why did you join TTA? Didn’t have a choice, my father made me go. He told me that’s where I would learn everything about the best operators in the Taxi industry.

What’s your favorite part of being a member of TTA? Networking and learning about the latest trends in the industry.

What committee do you currently serve on? Strategic planning committee and 2026 nominating committee. I attend/participate in the safety and loss committee, business development, committee, and operations committee.

What city are you located in and what is the size of your fleet? Franklin Square, New York. (Nassau County, Long Island) fleet size is currently 100 vehicles

What type of service does your company provide? Local, airport, NEMT, school. Basically, we’ll go anywhere if the customer is willing to pay.

What do you love most about the transportation industry? No two days are ever the same! Love the fast pace, constant problem-solving, as well as knowing how we directly impact families and businesses by providing essential services. People count on us often more times than anyone realizes.  Most of all I love the people- the drivers, our employees, and of course, our customers who keep us in business.

How do you define success? Success is doing meaningful work that makes a difference.  Success is measured by reliability and trust. When nothing is sure, anything is possible!

Who inspires you? My three children are my greatest inspiration. Their energy, determination, and perspective keep me grounded and remind me why I work hard and strive for excellence in everything I do. Watching them grow, face challenges, and pursue their own passions reminds me of what truly matters. Their example motivates me to be my best self in both life and work.

If you could choose anyone as a mentor, who would you choose and why? My father has been my mentor since a young age.  He taught me that success is earned through hard work and how you treat people along the way. His invaluable knowledge, wisdom, perseverance, and problem-solving skills have influenced the leader I am today.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to enter the transportation industry? It’s tough! The industry is constantly evolving. Must have an understanding about the business from the ground up. Never be afraid to ask questions and listen to the people who have been doing it for years.  Be willing to learn, be adaptable, and never underestimate the value of relationships.

What’s one thing — either industry-related or not — you learnt in the last month? I make it a point to learn something every day. If you don’t learn, you don’t grow.  Over the past month I've taken time to enhance my computer skills and explore how AI can enhance my business.

Personal

What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know? I was an LPN, licensed practical nurse. Thought I would enjoy this more than the Taxi industry, obviously I was wrong.

What’s the last book you read? The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins

What is your favorite hobby? Gardening and cooking

What’s the first concert you ever attended? Mötley Crüe

What’s the next place on your travel bucket list? Hawaii & Montana

Are you currently binge-watching any shows? Landman

If you had to eat one meal every day for the rest of your life, what would it be? Pizza-after all we have the best in the country

What’s one item you can’t live without? My phone 😩 (as much as I hate to admit)

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