Each month, the Missouri Public Transit Association (MPTA) spotlights transit operators from across the state to highlight their work and commitment to transit. For the month of July, MPTA is pleased to spotlight Rob Rowan from Ray County Transportation, Inc.
Rob has been an operator with Direct Transit since February 2011. “I take pride in helping people every day and have had the opportunity to get to know some wonderful people,” says Rowan.. “One of my memories is when a reporter from the local newspaper rode along with me and wrote an article about me and the client.”
On a regular basis, Rowan’s team is amazed with his work ethic and commitment to riders. “Rob goes above and beyond not only as a driver but also around the office,” says Janine Clampitt, Ray County Transportation’s Director. “All of our clients love Rob. He is always smiling and does whatever he can to make sure the client is smiling too.”
One of the challenges that Rowan faces during his working hours is traveling with riders that may not be feeling at their best to appointments. “Some of our clients don’t have anyone else in their lives and just saying good morning and smiling can make their day,” added Rowan.
In addition to being an operator, Rowan is the in-house lift expert.
For other interested in possibly becoming operators, Rowan underscores the importance of the work to people in his area, “Some clients have said they just don’t know what they would do without us…. Just encourage them and make them smile.”
If you know a transit operator that you would like to highlight for the next operator of the month, please contact our team at mmenn@mopublictransit.org