May 18, 2007

TriMet recognizes Operators of the Year

TriMet announced its top MAX and bus operators for the year on Thursday, May 17. Operators qualify for the awards based on outstanding driving records, customer service and attendance, with the winner selected by their peers.

This year Bruce Hansen was honored as TriMet's Bus Operator of the Year. Rob Wieting was chosen for light rail's top award as MAX Operator of the Year. Celeste Goodall obtained the top honor for a part-time bus operator.

Bus Operator of the Year

Hansen, 38, has been a TriMet operator for 15 years. The Hillsboro resident drives Westside bus lines originating out of TriMet’s Merlo Garage including the Line 54-Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy/56-Scholls Ferry Rd. Hansen has received TriMet's Superior Performance Award nine times which is handed out for a safe driving record, attendance and customer service skills.

MAX Operator of the Year

Wieting, 37, has been an operator at TriMet for 11 years. The Vancouver resident started driving a bus for TriMet and switched to MAX six years ago. Wieting, who operates on the Blue and Yellow lines, has qualified for Rail Operator of the Quarter 14 times. He has also received TriMet's Superior Performance Award for safe driving, attendance and customer service skills five times which elevated him to senior operator status in 2003.

Part-time Operator of the Year

Goodall, 51, drives various bus routes out of the Center St. Garage including the Lines 15-Belmont, 44-Capitol Hwy, 44-Mocks Crest and 70-12th Ave. The Southeast Portland resident who has a perfect attendance record four years in a row will celebrate her 10th anniversary with TriMet this summer. In May 2006, General Manager Fred Hansen presented Goodall with a Sustained Management Excellence award for her outstanding job performance. A favorite among riders, Goodall has received many compliments for her friendly and consistent service.