Family is a common theme in the school bus industry. There are several family owned school bus companies throughout Minnesota. Take Northstar Bus Lines and American Student Transportation in Minneapolis for instance both family owned and operated since 1963. Close competitors Kottkes’ Bus Services, Lorenz Bus Service and MTI- all family operated as well. While some would shy away from working with their significant other, or mom when it comes to families they make the best employees. 

Based on personal experience our happiest drivers always seem to have a relative that works for the company. Imagine working for the same company as your husband, daughter or son. While some say they could never do it, in the school bus industry it works. 

Just take the Hemes for example- mom, dad and daughter all driving a school bus for American Student Transportation. How did they all end up driving for the same company? Ann got her CDL with School Bus Endorsements after a successful realtor career. Not long after her husband Mike joined as well. They were followed by their daughter Peggy who actually started with us as a Bus Aide. After 8 years with us, we can say this is a reliable and fun group. All in all, they love working together and having the same schedules which makes it that much easier to spend time together outside of driving. 

Families are valued at our company. There are not a lot of occupations that allow you to bring your child to work daily. In addition, flexibility in scheduling gives employees ample time to take care of and spend time with family daily. Whether it's office management, drivers, mechanics or dispatch- family comes first. We find it to be true- “Family that drives together, Stays together.”