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 Transportation Today
 

Metro honors its top bus driver for 2006

King County Metro Transit’s 2006 Operator of the Year has a degree in psychology, but his 27 years behind the wheel of a bus have probably taught him more about human nature than any textbook could. It’s enhanced his own natural friendliness and compassion – just two reasons other bus drivers selected Geme “Pat” Calman for Metro’s annual top honor.

photo: Pat Calman
Operator of the Year 2006: Pat Calman.

A bus driver since 1980, over the past several years Calman has worked as a “report operator” for Metro. Report operators are on constant stand-by waiting to fill any unexpected hole in the bus driving schedule caused by another driver’s illness or unexpected absence. That means Calman reports for work every day at Metro’s Bellevue Base not knowing what his assignment will be, or what route he will be driving.

“A report operator like Pat has to be an expert on every route at the base,” said Metro General Manager Kevin Desmond. “They tend to be our most experienced drivers, and they serve as a great resource for the newer drivers. Pat has repeatedly demonstrated his value as a mentor, and his willingness to help out whenever called upon is a tribute to his professionalism.”

Metro managers also applauded Calman for his willingness to go the extra mile for passengers and co-workers.

photo: Pat talks to reporters
Pat talks to local news reporters.

“Pat is always customer oriented,” said Transit Operations Manager Jim O’Rourke. “His contributions to our organization extend far beyond driving a bus. He’s worked on a variety of committees and projects, including taking a leadership role in workplace health and safety issues.”

Metro employs more than 2,600 bus operators who do all they can to help riders reach their destinations safely and on time. Since 1978, the drivers themselves have selected the best of their peers to hold the title of Metro Transit’s Operator of the Year.

The annual award honors operators who demonstrate safe driving skills, exceptional customer service, and an outstanding overall work record. In order to receive the award, a driver must be chosen as Operator of the Month from one of the seven transit bases. At the end of the year, the Operator of the Year is selected by a vote of all fellow Operators of the Month.

 
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Updated:  June 26, 2007

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