The 1993 Operator of the Year is Al Gisselberg

Alfred Vernon Gisselberg was raised on Puget Island, Washington, an island located in the Columbia River near Cathlamet. His parents owned a truck farm on the island and he developed an early love for gardening. Before beginning his career as a transit operator, Al worked as a minister, having graduated from the Northwest Bible College in 1956. He has also been employed as a sawyer, a radiator repairman, a tile setter and a store clerk.

Al began his career with Seattle Transit on December 27, 1960. In his employment letter asking him why he wanted to be a bus driver, Al stated that he liked having the security, working with people and the neatness of the uniform. During Al's transit career, he has achieved an impressive record, including more than 20 commendations and has been twice selected as Operator of the Month; in August, 1978, at Atlantic Base and in September, 1992, at North Base. In some of the many commendations sent in by his passengers Al has been described as being very helpful, friendly, very positive, enthusiastic, nice to wake up to, best on the brakes, a terrific asset to the system, polite, kind, courteous, efficient, cheerful, knowledgeable, clear and concise. One woman even changed her schedule so she could ride with Al, who she described as, "a fine example of a Metro bus driver. He's always calm and has something nice to say every morning."

When not spending time with his wife, Barbara, Al has several hobbies including fishing, raising tropical fish and tending his plants and flowers. He is also a sports fan and enjoys baseball, football and basketball.