A spokesperson for Roosevelt Island Tram operator Leitner-Poma of America reports:
Armando Cordova, who started working with the Roosevelt Island Tram in 1990, has retired, and Assistant Tram Manager Darren McCarthy has been promoted to replace Cordova. Cordova was instrumental in the reliability and safety of the tram during a period of rapid growth in ridership.
“Armando is an institution at the Tram and on the island and we have been thrilled to work with him for the last 15 years,” said Daren Cole, president and CEO, Leitner Poma of America “He touched so many lives over the years – island residents, daily commuters and people from around the world. His leadership, knowledge and friendship will be dearly missed, and we wish him the best.”
Cordova started with the tram before it was completely rebuilt by LPOA in 2010. He embraced the new technology and the tram, learning an entire new system and passing on what he learned to his team over the years. His ability to troubleshoot, improvise and create new systems and procedures helped transition the Roosevelt Island Tram into the future, gaining the trust and confidence of every passenger who rode on the tram. Throughout his tenure, Cordova has been instrumental in maintaining the tram’s high operational standards. Under his leadership, the tram has achieved a remarkable 99.8% availability rate, operating 20 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Beyond his technical expertise, Cordova is affectionately known in the community as the “Tram Master.” His dedication and deep knowledge of the tram system have made him a respected figure among Roosevelt Island residents. Cordova’s unwavering commitment to the Roosevelt Island Tramway has not only ensured the system’s operational excellence but has also solidified its status as a vital and cherished part of New York City’s transportation infrastructure.
Darren McCarthy, who started with LPOA at the tram in 2023, has been promoted from his role as Assistant Manager and has assumed day-to-day management of all operations. Before joining LPOA, he earned a degree in Computer Science and Engineering by attending night school while working toward his goal. After graduating, Darren began his career at Citibank as a technician. Over the course of 25 years, he progressed from Field Technician to Senior Engineer and eventually to Regional Manager, continuously seeking new challenges. Darren later transitioned to Verizon, where he took on the role of foreman, overseeing all FIOS and telecommunications operations in Northern Westchester and Putnam Valley New York.
“I am thrilled with the opportunity to take the reins,” said McCarthy. “I was fortunate to spend time with Armando for on-the-job training and benefit from his years of accumulated knowledge. I look forward to carrying on his legacy and ushering the team and the tram into a new era. I have been so fortunate to have the support of the staff, the team at LPOA and most importantly my family. I wouldn’t be here without them.”
McCarthy will oversee the ongoing upgrade to the tram’s communications system, continue to emphasize collaboration and communication with all partners and staff, and provide opportunities for training, growth and a career path for his team,
Roosevelt Island Historical Society President Judy Berdy attended Mr Cordova’s June 26th retirement party at the Graduate Hotel Panorama room and shares this story from the RIHS newsletter.
On Thursday, June 26th a retirement party was held for Armando Cordova, the Poma Leitner Tram Manager of the Tram since 2010.
Cordova was the technical engineer and specialist who was the boss at the tram for 15 years. Always ready to solve problems, assist riders, he handled all the events and crisis’ with professionalism.
The Tram staff and kiosk staff are great neighbors looking out for each others. Cordova was the go to person when the electric would fail the visitor center or one of our heaters failed in midwinter. The tram staff has always been here with a helping hand. Armando and his successor have made life on the plaza easier when the unexpected occur.
Plaque presented representing a portion of tram cable and the technical drawing of the cable car system
This plaque will be at the Tram and at Leitner Poma Headquarters
RIOC’s Mary Cunneen, Armando Cordova and Daren Cole, President/CEO of Leitner Poma
John, Greg and Armando at the reunion of co-workers. Greg soon celebrates 50 years at the Tram.
Speaking to the group, and telling of the safety always in forefront of the Tram staff.
The Cordova family together. After a year of illness and tragedy they were together to celebrate Armando’s retirement.
Minnie, the long time staffer joined me on the Panorama Room terrace for a great reunion.
Tram staff, RIOC management, and family were celebrating the event.
