The 2001 Operator of the Year is Johnny Wade

"Personifies the team spirit we strive for . . ."

"Exceptionally positive attitude"

"Many other drivers have exercised wonderful qualities, but this guy takes the prize."

Johnny began his career as a full-time operator in December 1970. He has driven with Seattle Transit, Metro Transit, and King County Metro Transit and thus has weathered each transition. Over the years, Johnny has received numerous commendations from his passengers. He has also earned a 20-year Safe Driving Award. Johnny has been involved with many facets of Metro, from the Metro Bowling League and Metro Motorcycle Club to serving on the Metro Credit Union Board and the Transit Safety Accident Review Board. He loves people and the every-day interaction with passengers. In fact, twice he moved into supervision and each time he decided to return to driving.

Johnny was born in Yakima. He and his wife Dorothy, a retired transit operator herself, have seven children and have been married more than 30 years.

A willing participant when it comes to helping out, his wife sums it up by saying, "Anything he is asked to do, he is always willing to do it."

In June 2001, Johnny was selected as Operator of the Month at South Base for the third time, and was voted Operator of the Year in balloting by all the Operators of the Month for 2001.

Operator Johnny Wade is highly regarded and appreciated for his exemplary work over the years and is a fine representative of King County Metro Transit.

See related news release.

See related storey from This Week in Transportation.