Introducing Bus Tech Talk: A New Series About the People Who Keep Transit Moving

Introducing Bus Tech Talk: A New Series About the People Who Keep Transit Moving

METRO Magazine, in collaboration with Complete Coach Works (CCW), is launching a new industry-focused video/podcast, “Bus Tech Talk,” which will center on the unsung heroes of the transit industry: maintenance professionals, technicians, and operations leaders working behind the scenes to keep fleets moving.

The podcast will be hosted by Mark Hollenbeck, national business development manager at CCW, and Alex Roman, Executive Editor of METRO. 

The first episode is slated to launch in June 2025.


Why You Should Tune In

While many transit industry podcasts lean toward conversations with CEOs and policymakers, Bus Tech Talk aims to spotlight the day-to-day realities of the maintenance workforce, including heads of maintenance, shop supervisors, and technician teams. 

Episodes will explore how agencies across the U.S. manage aging fleets, adapt to new technologies, and build resilient workforces.

“There’s a clear need for this platform type,” said Hollenbeck. “Maintenance professionals are the backbone of every agency. With supply chain issues, vehicle longevity stretching past 16 to 20 years, and a transition to more complex propulsion systems, a lot of knowledge needs to be shared.”

Topics on the podcast will include recruitment and retention of technicians, technician training programs, veteran workforce integration, managing multi-propulsion fleets, and the growing importance of automation and electrification in bus maintenance operations. 

The show will also feature stories from agencies of all sizes, highlighting creative strategies used nationwide to tackle workforce and operational challenges.

“We talk all the time about the importance of frontline workers in public transit,” said Roman. “Bus Tech Talk is about giving those workers a platform to share their insights, experiences, and challenges. These people keep buses rolling day in and day out, and their stories matter.”

About the CCW/METRO Partnership

Hollenbeck brings over 25 years of experience to the video/podcast, starting in the bus industry at a young age through family ties and eventually holding leadership roles at METRO Magazine, School Bus Fleet, Proterra, and, more recently, CCW. 

His familiarity with transit maintenance operations and his editorial background make him uniquely positioned to lead the show.

CCW, a Riverside, Calif.-based company, has provided bus rehabilitation, electrification, and heavy-duty maintenance services to the transit industry for nearly 40 years. 

Its partnership with METRO on this project reflects a shared commitment to knowledge-sharing and industry support.

“We’re excited about this partnership and the opportunity to re-engage with the industry in a new way,” said Hollenbeck. “We already have guests lined up from across the country — from large urban agencies to smaller systems in rural areas — and we look forward to bringing their experiences to light.”

“Bus Tech Talk” will be available on all major podcast platforms and will be promoted through METRO and CCW’s digital and social channels. 

Transit Sales International Awarded Contract for Eight Buses to Mears Transportation Group

Transit Sales International Awarded Contract for Eight Buses to Mears Transportation Group

RIVERSIDE, CA – Transit Sales International (TSI), the nation’s leading provider of pre-owned buses, in collaboration with its affiliate Shuttle Bus Leasing (SBL), is proud to announce a combined lease and refurbishment agreement with Mears Transportation Group.

Under the agreement, SBL is providing a short-term lease of eight (8) transit buses to ensure Mears can begin operations for their new service contract on time. The leased buses will serve as an interim solution while TSI refurbishes eight (8) buses that Mears has purchased for permanent deployment. The refurbishment work is being performed by Complete Coach Works (CCW), an affiliate of TSI, and will include complete mechanical and cosmetic upgrades to complete the refurbishment.

“This is a great example of how our group works together to deliver smart, flexible fleet solutions,” said Jay Raber, Regional Sales Manager for Complete Coach Works. “The lease allows Mears to meet its service start date while giving us the time needed to complete their customized refurbishments.”

The project highlights the value of TSI’s vertically integrated approach—offering customers a one-stop solution that combines immediate operational support through leasing with long-term fleet investment through refurbishment.

“Mears has a long-standing reputation for quality and service, and we’re proud to support them as they expand operations in Florida,” said Jay Raber. “This kind of collaboration is what sets our group apart.”

Complete Coach Works Appoints David Dunn as Field Service Manager to Strengthen Its Customer Service Experience

Complete Coach Works Appoints David Dunn as Field Service Manager to Strengthen Its Customer Service Experience

RIVERSIDE, CA – Complete Coach Works (CCW), a leading provider of transit and sustainable transportation solutions, is proud to announce the appointment of David Dunn as the company’s new Field Service Manager, effective April 21, 2025. David will report directly to Patrick Scully.

As Field Service Manager, David will collaborate closely with the sales, production, contracts, engineering, warranty, and sales teams to enhance customer satisfaction through improved support systems, training, and technical guidance.

“Bringing David on board is part of our continued effort to improve customer experience from start to finish,” said Patrick Scully. “His role will be instrumental in ensuring seamless bus deliveries, educating customers on warranty and claims procedures, and addressing any contractual scope items—before, during, and after delivery.”

David brings a wealth of experience in field service operations from his previous roles at Nikola Motor Company, Temsa, CR England Trucking, and Motor Coach Industries. With over 2,000 hours of formal automotive and diesel technician training, David’s technical background and hands-on knowledge will be a major asset to CCW and its customers. He is a family man with a wife and two teenage children and is looking forward to his new role at CCW.

Grow Your Fleet: Buses Available for Quick Deployment

Grow Your Fleet: Buses Available for Quick Deployment

Looking for reliable buses to enhance your fleet without the wait? CCW has a wide selection of used, overhauled, and ready-for-deployment buses tailored to meet your transportation needs.

 

Over 1,000 High-Quality Pre-Owned Transit Buses for Sale

 

  • Cost-Effective Solutions: Save while maintaining quality and performance.

  • Quick Delivery: Avoid long new bus lead times with buses ready for deployment.

  • Eco-Friendly Options: Explore alternative propulsion options.

  • Custom Upgrades Available: We can tailor your bus to your exact specifications!

 

 

Complete Coach Works’ Regional Sales Manager Honored for Outstanding Contribution to the South West Transit Association and Industry Advocacy

Complete Coach Works’ Regional Sales Manager Honored for Outstanding Contribution to the South West Transit Association and Industry Advocacy

RIVERSIDE, CA – Complete Coach Works (CCW), a leading provider of transit and sustainable transportation solutions, proudly announces that Shah Remtulla has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to the South West Transit Association (SWTA) and his dedicated advocacy for the transit industry. This prestigious Executive Director’s award was presented at the Annual SWTA conference by Rich Sampson, SWTA’s current Executive Director. This award recognizes his commitment to SWTA members, his role as the voice of vendors, and his active participation in Capitol Hill during the annual legislative conference.

For several years, Shah has been instrumental in representing the interests of SWTA customers and vendors, ensuring their needs are addressed at both regional and national levels. His leadership and industry expertise have strengthened relationships between transit agencies and service providers.

“We are incredibly proud of Shah and his well-earned recognition,” said Patrick Scully, Chief Commercial Officer of Complete Coach Works. “His dedication to transit advocacy, customer support, and policy engagement has made a lasting impact on the industry. This award reflects his hard work and the respect he has earned among transit professionals.”

Beyond his contributions to SWTA, Shah has actively participated in legislative discussions in Washington, D.C., working to secure funding and policy support for transit agencies. His efforts on Capitol Hill have helped amplify the voices of public transportation providers, ensuring they have the resources needed to maintain and improve essential transit services.

This award is a testament to Complete Coach Works’ dedication to the transit industry. Shah’s passion and hard work truly reflect CCW’s commitment to keeping public transportation moving forward and making a real difference in the communities we serve.

For more information about Complete Coach Works and its contributions to the transit industry, visit www.completecoach.com.

Transit Sales International Awarded a Contract for the Sale of Two CNG Buses to Sonoma County Transit to Support Local Transit Needs

Transit Sales International Awarded a Contract for the Sale of Two CNG Buses to Sonoma County Transit to Support Local Transit Needs

RIVERSIDE, CA – Transit Sales International (TSI), the nation’s leading provider of pre-owned buses, is pleased to announce a new contract to supply two 2013 CNG New Flyer 40LFR buses to Sonoma County Transit.

The two buses, both high-quality pre-owned models, have been sourced from TSI’s extensive inventory. TSI will bring the vehicles to operational readiness to ensure that all systems are fully operational and ready for service. TSI’s process involves inspection and service to all functional systems of the bus. In addition, the buses will be fitted with an REI 8 camera system, reupholstered passenger seat inserts, a new bike rack, and exterior LED lighting. The buses will also receive a custom paint job to reflect Sonoma County Transit’s branding.

“We are proud to support Sonoma County Transit in their efforts to expand and maintain their public transportation services,” said James Carson, Regional Sales Representative at TSI. “We are committed to helping agencies add to and bolster their fleet while delivering safe and reliable service to their communities.” The buses will soon be in service, helping Sonoma County Transit meet the growing transportation needs of its residents.

For more information about Transit Sales International and its inventory of pre-owned buses, visit www.transitsales.com.