SC Bus Driver Honored For 25 Years of Service

Bus driver Brian Figard was recently recognized by Maxwell Transit for 25 years of service.

Over past 25 years, Figard drove in Northern Bedford School District for one year and has driven in Spring Cove School District for the other 24 years.

Maxwell Transit CEO Charles Maxwell presented Figard with a plaque to commemorate the company's "grateful recognition" for Figard's 25 years of bus driving.

Upon receiving the award, Figard was "in shock and awe."

"I told them, 'I'm speechless. I'll keep trying to do my best,'" said Figard.

Figard began with E&D Busing, which was owned by Ed and Doris Benson. Bus driving was recommended to him by a friend. He hoped to drive for a few years.

"A few years turned into 25," said Figard.

When Maxwell Transit bought the business in 2015, they kept Figard on.

"Both contractors have been great to work for," said Figard. "They were very fair to me, and I have no complaints about either."

In his 25 years, Figard has fostered relationships with the students on his bus. He said he misses them when school is out for the summer.

Greeting the children in the morning is his favorite part of the job.

"I talk to them the same as if they were my own," said Figard.

Twenty-five years in, Figard is driving the second generation. He has been invited to multiple students' weddings.

"I only have them for a short time, but we create friendships and bonds," said Figard.

Figard believes that with bus driving, like most things, you only get out what you put in it.

"Children like to be respected," said Figard. "If you respect them, they'll respect you."

Figard doesn't have plans to leave driving anytime soon.

"I'll drive as long as my health permits and my contractors will have me," said Figard.

Bus driver shortage

Figard recommends bus driving to anyone who needs a good part time job. Drivers have the summer and holidays off, and Figard's day-to-day schedule is very flexible.

Figard's day starts right before 7 a.m. He's back in the bus shed right before 9 a.m. He heads out again around 2:15 p.m. and finishes his day around 4:25.

"I used to farm and milk cows, so I never had time off," said Figard. "Then I started driving and I thought, what do I do with all this free time?"

Many companies have felt the effects of the bus driver shortage that has been affecting Pennsylvania since 2021. While Maxwell Transit is thankful for loyal employees like Figard, they are continuing recruiting efforts.

"There is a serious need for bus drivers," said Maxwell.

Maxwell Transit will have a job fair this Sunday, March 26, in the bus shed across from Giant Eagle.