FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Performance Honored Throughout Week of Celebration

Baltimore, MD (March 18, 2026) – The Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) proudly honors the professionalism and dedication of operators, mechanics, dispatchers, police and other front-line staff who keep the agency’s transit operations moving safely and reliably every day.  Transit employees play a vital role in connecting communities and connecting individuals to jobs, school, healthcare and opportunities throughout the Baltimore region.

“Thank you to all our dedicated transit workers, from front-line bus and rail operators to mechanics and operations staff that work behind the scenes,” said Maryland Department of Transportation Acting Secretary Katie Thompson. “Today we recognize your commitment to providing Marylanders with a safe and reliable ride.”

Terrance White - Bus Operator of the Year                 Joseph Swan – Rail Operator of the Year

Transit Employee Appreciation was inspired by Bus Operator Appreciation Day, first celebrated more than a decade ago in various regions across the country. It is typically observed annually on March 18, commemorating the launch of the first bus line in Paris in 1662.

“Transit Employee Appreciation is about recognizing the people behind the service,” said MTA Administrator Holly Arnold. “Our transit employees are the best in the industry, and I encourage everyone to join me in thanking them for the vital work they do every day.”

Over the last few weeks, celebrations have taken place across the agency to recognize employees for their hard work and dedication. The agency’s Superstar awards recognize employees who consistently go above and beyond every day and demonstrate exceptional performance, strong safety records and outstanding customer service.  The MTA recognized Terrance White of the Bush Bus Division as Bus Operator Superstar of the Year and Joseph Swann of Metro Subway as the Rail Operator Superstar of the Year. The Northwest Bus Division was recognized as the Outstanding Bus Division of the year and the Eastern Bus Division was recognized as the outstanding Maintenance shop.

Riders using the Transit app can share their appreciation with operators every time they ride transit by using the “GO” feature.  This function gives riders an option to thank their operator by selecting from a pre-determined message list. Messages such as “Thanks for the ride" or "Much appreciated," are sent to the operator's on-board terminal. This feature makes it easier than ever to give compliments to the Maryland Transit Administration operators. 

Transit Employee Appreciation celebrations also serve as an opportunity to highlight the rewarding career paths available in the transit industry. The MTA continues to recruit talented individuals for a range of positions including bus and rail operators, mechanics and police, all of which come with competitive pay and benefits. Anyone interested in joining the MTA team can apply by visiting mta.maryland.gov/join.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Courtney Mims
Office: 410-767-8367
Cell: 667-392-0157
cmims@mdot.maryland.gov

Paul Shepard
Office: 410-767-3935
Cell:  443-622-4181
pshepard@mdot.maryland.gov

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