Every day across WeDriveU, employees make a meaningful difference for their teams, passengers, customers and communities. They’re the heartbeat of WeDriveU, connecting people to everything that matters in their lives: employment, healthcare, education, family and friends. These remarkable team members demonstrate what excellence looks like in action across our operations and business.

Honoring Employees for Values Excellence

In a quarterly town hall with U.S. employees, WeDriveU celebrated bus operators and administrative staff who are fulfilling WeDriveU’s mission to deliver transportation solutions that connect people to the places and moments that matter most. We’re excited to announce the outstanding winners who bring these values to life in service to transit agencies, universities and private sector customers across the country.

Safety Award

Carlos Maradona | Bus Driver, Fremont, California

With nine years at WeDriveU, Carlos consistently demonstrates the company’s commitment to safety, earning a 100% safety score over his prior six months. While navigating a route through San Francisco, Carlos put safety into action during a high-stress moment.

When Carlos observed something concerning occurring near a scheduled stop, he immediately contacted dispatch and continued to a secure location while police responded, ensuring his passengers remained safe.

Warm, approachable, and known by name to his regular riders, Carlos makes safety personal.

“Carlos doesn’t just transport passengers; he builds relationships,” added Vahid Farahani, Area General Manager.

Teamwork Award

Amalia Rosario | Office Administrator, Bakersfield, California

For 15 years, Amalia has served as the ultimate team player in Bakersfield. When a driver or dispatcher is unavailable, she willingly steps in to drive the route herself. That willingness to help wherever needed keeps the operation moving and gives the team confidence when challenges arise.

Amalia’s support extends across daily operations. She helps resolve system access challenges and works through day-to-day issues so others can stay focused on their responsibilities. She has also helped improve processes, making work more consistent and efficient for the team.
Amalia reliability, initiative and team-first approach make her an outstanding example of teamwork in action.

“Amalia makes life easier for everyone around her. She takes the stress out of tough days,” said Michelle Jorgensen, Area General Manager.

Sustainability Award

Robert Alvarado & Ralph Contreras | Bus Drivers, San Jose, California

Robert and Ralph demonstrate sustainability by helping riders understand and choose public transportation as part of their daily routines. They do so much more than drive. They serve as ambassadors for the customer’s fully electric transportation program.
Their commitment was especially visible during an Earth Day event this year, where they came out to greet riders and support conversations about the importance of reducing single-occupancy vehicles on the road. Their presence helped connect the larger sustainability message to the everyday rider experience.

Their warmth, professionalism and genuine care earn rave reviews from commuters and keep passengers coming back.

Award presenter Lisa Garcia, Account Manager, praised Robert and Ralph, noting, “What you do isn’t just driving a route; it’s serving our community and keeping people moving every day with a smile. Riders appreciate you, and WeDriveU appreciates you.”

Innovation Award

Andrea Lupear | Senior Human Resources Manager, Remote

Andrea brings innovation to life by turning business needs into practical solutions that help teams work more effectively.

As part of a Business Transformation project, she used HTML coding to develop a tool that automates employee recognition and milestone communications used nationwide. Her creativity bridges the gap between data and people, creating a lasting impact.

“Andrea’s work goes far beyond numbers on a page, she turns raw data into insights that help us better understand and care for our people every day,” added Vice President of People Yuri Sans, who presented Andrea’s award.

Community Award

Ronald “Ron” Chabot | Bus Driver, Rochester, New York

Ron’s impact goes beyond the driver’s seat. He creates a sense of community through small, thoughtful gestures – offering coffee to a colleague having a tough day, sharing a joke or passing out spare garbage bags when someone runs short.

A practical problem-solver, he regularly shares operational hacks, such as teaching new drivers how to safely de-ice unheated side mirrors with isopropyl alcohol and a towel. As a trainer, Ron welcomes new hires, teaches route specifics and models WeDriveU standards with a positive, cheerful attitude.

Whether it’s offering a helping hand, a kind word or a practical solution, Ron brings people together and sets an example of what it means to care for others.

Award presenter Steve Ray, Operations Manager, notes, “He is always mindful of timing and does what he can to help passengers make their connections safely and on time, no matter the weather.”

Meaningful Impact Every Day

Excellence isn’t just a goal. It’s how we show up.

WeDriveU’s honorees highlight how meaningful impact can come from everyday choices: stepping in, solving a problem, supporting a teammate, improving a process or taking extra care with a passenger. They join a shining roster of award winners (meet some of our previous quarter’s honorees).

Join Our Amazing Team

Inspired by the people who bring our values to life? Explore career opportunities at WeDriveU and discover how you can make an impact as part of a team committed to excellence. Explore career opportunities.