Are you struggling to hire school bus drivers, mechanics or other transportation professionals for your district or company? Are you confident that your team would recommend working at your organization? These are tough but essential questions for industry leaders to address as the school transportation industry grapples with worker shortages and rising competition from other industries.

The success of any school transportation department hinges on recruiting the right talent, fostering effective teams, and creating a positive, supportive workplace culture. However, achieving these goals is no simple task. In today’s competitive job market, it’s crucial to have strategies in place that not only attract talent but also retain them for the long term.

One of the most powerful tools for building a high-performing culture is positive reinforcement. Recognizing and celebrating your employees’ hard work can have a profound effect on morale, motivation and job satisfaction. When staff members feel appreciated, they are more likely to stay engaged and continue performing at a high level.

Recognition programs can be effective. I suggest offering a retention bonus once or twice a year for transportation staff. As a result, morale will likely improve as well as attendance and overall service quality. The transportation staff really appreciate the bonuses, especially with the cost of necessities rising. I also encourage you to empower your staff to advocate for your district or company, helping spread the word that your organization is a great place to work and telling others about the available incentives. As the industry faces persistent shortages, ensuring your compensation package is competitive can help you stand out from other employers.

Other forms of recognition can include monthly appreciation meals, holiday gifts like turkeys or pies, or simply a note of thanks. These small gestures contribute to a positive and welcoming work environment, which is key to retention. Last month, Cody Cox, transportation director at Royse City Independent School District in Texas, recognized his transportation team on LinkedIn. “Royce City is such an awesome district. We are fully staffed. However, with our fast growth we are always adding more team members!”

Cox shared pictures of holiday decorations, food and a hot chocolate bar. He noted the importance of culture and invited potential candidates to apply for a position in his department.

Offering competitive salaries and benefits is crucial for attracting and retaining high-quality school bus drivers and mechanics. School transportation jobs are demanding, and it’s important that your compensation packages are on par with other industries offering similar roles.

Investing in technology and modern equipment is critical for attracting drivers and mechanics. Make sure your district is outfitted with the latest technology newer buses, routing software, GPS systems and quality support staff. Visible investments in your workplace and equipment signal to prospective employees that their work environment is valued.

Prospective employees, especially drivers and mechanics, are more likely to join an organization that demonstrates an ongoing commitment to safety, efficiency and technological advancement. Newer, well-maintained vehicles not only make the job easier and safer but also give drivers a sense of pride in the equipment they operate. Furthermore, modern routing software and GPS systems can make routes more efficient, reducing driver stress and helping improve on-time performance.

A supportive, collaborative culture is essential for retaining school transportation personnel. Create a workplace where employees feel valued, supported and part of a cohesive team. This can be achieved through ongoing training and professional development, supportive leadership and clear communication. When employees know they can voice their concerns and have them addressed, they are more likely to stay.

To address the specific challenges of attracting school bus drivers and mechanics, you’ll need to implement recruitment strategies that speak directly to their unique needs and concerns like flexible schedules, certifications and specialized training programs for those looking to advance their careers. Create a clear career path for advancement.

Investing in your employees by offering recognition, competitive pay and a supportive and safe work environment will build a team that is committed, motivated and ready to meet the challenges of the future.

Editor’s Note: As reprinted in the January 2025 issue of School Transportation News.

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How much control do you want over your fleet? The low price for a GPS-only, untethered fleet tracking solution may look shiny. But limited technologies pass their limitations on to you. Know what you’re getting (or missing).

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Download this complimentary white paper to learn about the differences between tethered and untethered fleet tracking solutions. And what they offer.

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Fill out the form below and then check your email for the white paper download link.

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Zonar Systems has merged with GPS Trackit, an award-winning provider of IoT and GPS fleet tracking technology. Together, the two companies aim to form a comprehensive platform to serve fleets of all sizes, including commercial, field services, and passenger transportation industries.

Zonar will operate as part of the GPS Trackit portfolio “while maintaining its commitment to providing industry-leading fleet health and safety solutions, particularly in the government and education sectors,” the companies said in a statement on Tuesday. “Together, the two companies will form a comprehensive platform that serves fleets of all sizes, delivering best-in-class telematics and cloud-based solutions for commercial fleet, field services, and passenger industries.”

The move announced on Tuesday is also part of a broader strategic realignment by Continental, which held a majority share in Zonar since October 2016, to streamline operations and focus on core automotive competencies. Philipp von Hirschheydt, Continental executive board member and head of automotive, described the sale as essential for sharpening the company’s focus and enhancing long-term value.

Zonar, founded in 2001 and headquartered in Seattle, Washington, has built its reputation on advancing fleet safety and efficiency through smart mobility solutions. The company pioneered technologies such as electronically verified pre-trip and post-trip inspections, reducing the risk of on-the-road breakdowns and enhancing operational performance. Its solutions serve the vocational, public, and commercial trucking industries.

GPS Trackit, established in 2002, has become a leading provider of cloud-based fleet management tools. Headquartered in Lakeland, Florida, it supports over 12,000 fleets globally, offering real-time tracking, telematics and video solutions. With a customer-first approach, the company is known for its personalized service and strong customer retention rates.

The merger brings together two industry leaders with complementary strengths. The company’s said in joint statement that Zonar’s expertise in advanced mobility technology aligns with GPS Trackit’s focus on telematics and IoT-driven fleet management. IoT, or the Internet of Things, refers to a network of physical devices — vehicles, sensors, and equipment — that are connected to the internet to collect and exchange data. In fleet management, IoT facilitates real-time tracking, predictive maintenance, and comprehensive data analysis, enabling businesses to enhance operational efficiency, improve safety, and reduce costs.

This merger also positions the companies to address emerging trends in fleet management, such as the integration of electric vehicles (EVs), sustainability initiatives, and data-driven decision-making. By uniting their resources and expertise, Zonar and GPS Trackit said they aim to remain at the forefront of innovation in a rapidly evolving industry.

Both Zonar and GPS Trackit also emphasized their commitment to delivering customer-focused solutions. Zonar’s U.S.-based customer success team is known for exceeding expectations, while GPS Trackit offers live, bilingual support and flexible, scalable solutions tailored to individual fleet needs. By leveraging IoT and telematics technologies, fleet managers can access real-time insights into vehicle performance, optimize routes, and predict maintenance needs before costly breakdowns occur.

The combination of these capabilities, the companies said, ensures that fleet operators will benefit from seamless integration of tools and personalized support, reinforcing both companies’ reputations as customer-centric leaders in the industry.

“This alignment represents a significant step forward in our shared mission to deliver innovative, customer-focused fleet management solutions. By combining our strengths, such as our best-in-class video platform, with Zonar’s advanced technologies and industry expertise, we are poised to create unparalleled value for our customers and further disrupt the market as two industry leaders in overall customer satisfaction,” said GPS Trackit CEO Charles Kriete.

Meanwhile, the companies noted that the fleet management industry is undergoing a significant transformation driven by advancements in technology and increasing regulatory demands. Predictive maintenance, AI-powered analytics, and IoT-enabled telematics are becoming essential tools for fleet operators looking to improve efficiency and sustainability. These technologies also play a critical role in adapting to the growing adoption of EVs and meeting environmental regulations.

With the merger, Zonar and GPS Trackit said they are well-positioned to address these industry shifts. Their combined platform will provide comprehensive solutions that cater to the diverse needs of modern fleets, from small businesses to large enterprises.

By integrating their capabilities, Zonar and GPS Trackit said they look to redefine industry standards for fleet management.

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Related: Continental Sells Zonar to GPS Trackit
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AUBURN HILLS, Mich.-Continental today announced the sale of Zonar, a leading smart fleet management provider, to GPS Trackit, an industry pioneer in cloud-based, IoT fleet solutions and GPS tracking. Details of the transaction, including financial terms, are not being disclosed.

The deal follows Continental’s Group Sector Automotive strategy, announced last year, centered around focusing on its core strengths and streamlining its business operations.

“The decision to sell Zonar is part of our broader automotive strategy to sharpen our focus and enhance our fundamental strengths,” said Philipp von Hirschheydt, Member of the Executive Board and Head of Automotive. “As the market continues to evolve, our focus on value creation is the cornerstone of our strategic efforts. Continental is committed to leveraging innovation and operational excellence to strengthen its position in the marketplace by further investing in its core competencies to prioritize its growth.”

Zonar, founded in 2001, is headquartered in Seattle, Washington with more than 300 employees. It has pioneered smart mobility solutions throughout vocational, pupil, mass transit, and commercial trucking industries. The Zonar mission is to enhance the safety, performance, and success of its customers with actionable, innovative, and AI-enabled insights.

“We are thrilled to welcome Zonar to the GPS Trackit family. This acquisition represents a significant step forward in our mission to deliver innovative, customer-focused fleet management solutions,” said Charles Kriete, CEO, GPS Trackit. “By combining our strengths, such as our best-in-class video platform, with Zonar’s advanced technologies and industry expertise, we are poised to create unparalleled value for our customers and further disrupt the market as two industry leaders in overall customer satisfaction. We look forward to building on the Zonar legacy of excellence and driving transformative growth together.”

Continental develops pioneering technologies and services for sustainable and connected mobility of people and their goods. Founded in 1871, the technology company offers safe, efficient, intelligent and affordable solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic and transportation. In 2023, Continental generated sales of €41.4 billion, and currently employs around 200,000 people in 56 countries and markets.

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Christopher Faust said, “Do what you can,” The words Christopher Faust lives by everyday are, “Do what you can.” He started his career in transportation through the public transit industry with the City of Sheboygan, Shoreline Metro. He explained that Sheboygan Area School District has parented with the Shoreline Metro since 2018 to provide free transportation for all students and staff, and the transit agency transports many students who are not eligible for yellow bus transportation.

Faust noted that he started as a transit coordinator with Shoreline Metro before accepting the transportation supervisor position with the Sheboygan Area School District in June of 2022. Two years later, his title was changed to coordinator of transportation.

“Chris is a highly dedicated, driven and success-oriented individual,” Derek Muench, director of transit and parking for the City of Sheboygan, wrote in his nomination. “He genuinely cares for students, families and customers. He is focused on making services more reliable, safer and easier to use. He has demonstrated this during his tenure with SASD and will continue to demonstrate and progress this mission in the years ahead. He is definitely a superstar and rising star and deserves the recognition.”

Muench added that Faust remains a part-time transit coordinator for Shoreline Metro. “He dispatches and coordinates transit services, including service for students utilizing public transit,” he continued. “Chris is an instrumental link between the Sheboygan Area School District and Shoreline Metro, which has an agreement to provide free student and staff transportation on the public transit system.”

Faust said his day-to-day goal during the school year is to be an engaged partner between their school bus contractor Prigge School Bus Service (a contract that’s been in place since 1970), the schools, administration and parents, while ensuring a seamless transportation experience. He added that his day consists of following up on student behaviors on the bus and patterning with principals when incidents arise.

Each year, School Transportation News chooses 10 Rising Stars based on nominations submitted by school districts and companies around the industry. These individuals have shown exemplary commitment and dedication in the student transportation industry and continue to demonstrate innovation in their roles. This year’s Rising Stars are featured in the November magazine issue.

One of those principals, Kathryn McKillip, nominated him for the award. “Christopher has been an invaluable member of our team over the past year at Sheboygan Area School District,” she wrote. “Christopher has played a crucial role in reshaping student transportation within our district and has significantly improved our relations with our contractor and families.”

She noted that during challenging times with the school bus driver shortage and long bus ride times, Faust’s “dedication and innovative thinking have been instrumental in enhancing the technology aspect of student transportation,” she continued.

Taking on Technology

Faust said when he first came to Sheboygan Area School District, school buses were equipped with little technology. He said cameras were installed for the time in 2017, but by 2022 it was clear that the systems were outdated.

“Technology changes were needed and that was clearly defined as a goal for transportation,” Faust said. “We felt that it was critical to take advantage of some of these technology solutions for safety, efficiency, and a better driver experience.”

The first change, he said, was to implement GPS on all buses to be able to know where buses were and when they would arrive at their destination. “Within weeks of that being implemented we realized what [a] game changer that was for us and our contractor,” he said. “To go back and confirm that the drivers were making their stops and waited for students that were not present changed the conversation when calls and emails would come in saying that the bus never came.”

He said that being able to validate those instances, that drivers were doing their job, alleviated the push back from drivers on the GPS systems. As they, too, saw the value in the technology.

After implementing GPS, Faust said the district launched parent app Stopfinder through their routing software, Transfinder. “Stopfinder has been an amazing resource for our parents and is another great product that Transfinder offers,” he said.

Zach Moren, sales engineer at Transfinder who submitted a Rising Star nomination, said Faust is always dedicated in finding ways to improve student transportation and safety.

The district’s latest tech adoption has been school bus Wi-Fi. He said Sheboygan Area School District applied for and received the first round of E-Rate funding for school bus Wi-Fi hotpots. Installation took place in August and service went live at the first day of school.

“Over the past year, Mr. Faust has positively restructured the district’s student transportation while improving the relationship with our contractor,” Clarissa Ramos, principal and mentorship coordinator at the district wrote in her nomination of Faust. “I have witnessed better communication and effective partnerships with principals and administration. Technology-wise GPS has been added on all buses, a parent app with live bus tracking. The SASD application for the FCC E-Rate Bus WI-FI was approved. … This is a huge win for our district the goal is to have reduced unwanted behaviors on the bus.”

Next for technology, Faust said the district is installing driver tablets with Transfinder’s Wayfinder, with the first one going live in October. “I’m very excited about that! Lastly next summer we will be upgrading our camera system on all bus to enhance safety and security,” he added. “We are looking at a camera that [we] will be able to view live and has a wide angle lens that we are able to see into the seats on the bus.”

City of Sheboygan’s Muench said Faust is focused on addressing the school bus driver shortage by implementing strategies that make the job more efficient and safer for drivers. “He is hopeful these changes as well as more forthcoming will lead to reliable staffing, more accountability by students and safer operations,” he wrote. “He is also focused on the parent experience giving them the opportunity to interact with school bus service and trust transportation is safe and reliable.”

Principal McKillip added that his technology implementations have not only transformed the school bus into an extension of the classroom but hold the promise of reducing behavioral issues which will create a more conducive learning environment.

“Christoper is so dedicated to our students, he will drive routes on top of all his other job duties, just to ensure they are able to get to school and engage in learning,” she wrote.

Faust confirmed that he drives part-time for their contractor. Like most, Faust said his ongoing challenge has been navigating the school bus driver shortage. “We simply don’t have enough drivers to cover all routes and get our students to and from school within the time frames we would like,” he said, adding they have tired advertising on social media, via direct mailings, billboards, the school district newsletter and even incentivizing coaches to obtain their CDL’s.

Going Forward

Faust said his favorite part of his job is knowing that he’s contributing to student success. “Making sure by what I am doing that they are getting to and from safely, that is the most important to me,” he said.

He noted that at some point in his professional career, he would like to become a director of transportation for a district that runs their own buses. “The goals I have within my current role are to keep incorporating technology into transportation, as well as using it to improve processes and procedures,” he said. “Five years from now I want the Sheboygan Area School District to be known with[in] the state of Wisconsin as a leader with technology on our buses.”

He noted that while the profession is difficult and has many challenges, it’s rewarding. “I wish more people could experience it in one [way] or another,” he said. “When I get the opportunity to be behind the wheel of a bus, it’s like everything I do comes full circle, and I appreciate what drivers do day in and day out so much more.”

Outside of work, Faust said he spends time with his two boys, 5 and 8, both who have special needs. He also has a 10-month-old daughter.

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