Former Assistant Fire Marshall Continues to Serve as Mid-Mo Driver for 15 years with OATS, Inc.

(Columbia, Missouri, May 31, 2011) When Ray Hiatt retired as Assistant Marshall from the Columbia Fire Department, he decided he was not yet ready to retire from service to his community. He saw an ad in the paper for a position with OATS, Inc. and applied. He was hired that very day, and has continued to serve the Mid-Mo region for the past 15 years.

Ray says that his riders have become like part of his family. "You get to know them, transporting them day to day, and start to talk about all kinds of things. You become a part of their lives and you really start to care about them."

One thing Ray enjoys most about working for OATS is that he has his own vehicle, his own schedule and no one looking over his shoulder. He says he has brought on 2-3 others over the years, and tells them "if you’re looking for a part-time job and like to be on your own and drive, this is a good match for you."

The biggest change Ray has noticed in his time with OATS is the improvement in the equipment. He recalls when vehicles were scarcer, and some barely had working A/C or heat. Today Ray enjoys state-of-the-art vehicles which he finds more comfortable for him and his passengers.

Although Ray enjoys the open road and the nice vehicles he drives, it’s the passengers that have kept him at OATS all these years. "Being able to laugh and joke with them is a lot of fun. I know who likes what radio stations and always set the dial to their preference. They say they like riding with me, and that makes me feel good. I just like to make them laugh."

Jack Heusted, Regional Director for the Mid-Mo Region, says Ray is one of two drivers remaining who was working in the region when he became regional director in 1997. "Ray goes about his job quietly and effectively. He takes good care of the riders, and we appreciate that."