Finding Your People: Natasha Cowan Sims

Natasha Cowan Sims 

Employee - MATA

As an employee with the Memphis Area Transportation Authority (MATA), Natasha Cowan Sims is aware of her potential to impact the day her guests are having. Not only does she help her guests safely and efficiently get where they need to be, she takes the time to connect with travelers, learning about them as she shares her own passion for Memphis. 

How long have you worked with MATA? 

I've been with MATA for about five and a half years now. 

What does the day-to-day look like for you? 

Day to day, it's actually interesting because you get to meet new people every day. Different things happen every day. Whether the day starts off good or bad, we can always make them good in the end.

Can you share a memorable experience that you've had with a new visitor or a guest that's crossed your path? 

Well, we get a lot of people from out of town. I remember one couple here from Germany. At the time, I was an operator on the Riverfront Loop. It was a wonderful experience to be able to speak with them and let them know about some of the downtown activities and locations. We talked about MATA’s routes and the way we operate, and they shared about their background and the different languages they spoke. I was a military brat and was born in Germany, so that was just a highlight for me. 

What advice would you give to somebody who's new in the position or new to the hospitality industry? 

No matter the circumstances, we are a city made up of different people with different backgrounds. Always be polite. Always remember that even though you may encounter someone who is having a bad day, a lot of times just asking how they are doing, or how you may help them, can turn everything around. 

What are your top three recommendations for places to visit in Memphis or things to do? The National Civil Rights Museum, Central BBQ, and Sun Studio. 

Thank you, Natasha, for being a vital part of the tourism industry!