Southwest Iowa Transit Agency honors top drivers with awards
The Southwest Iowa Transit Agency honored its top drivers during its spring meeting.
The meeting, held May 16 at the Cass County Community Center in Atlantic, was part of a day of professional development and recognition, according to a news release.
From left, SWITA Transit Director Mark Lander, SWITA Driver of the Year Leon Zaiger, SWITA Transit Coordinator Kristen Templeton pose for a photo.
Leon Zaiger was named Driver of the Year. He has worked for SWITA since 2024.
"Leon has shown strong commitment to his work with skill behind the wheel, reliability, consistency, and a positive attitude," the release states. "Leon is a leader by example, inspiring other drivers naturally. Leon keeps safety at the forefront and has been very trustworthy and professional."
From left, SWITA Transit Director Mark Lander, Kelly Davis Award Winner Galen Gaer and SWITA Transit Coordinator Kristen Templeton pose for a photo.
Galen Gaer received the Kelly Davis Leadership Award. He has been a driver for SWITA for nearly nine years and "shows leadership through safe driving, willingness to learn new routes and assist when there is a scheduling bind."
"Galen does a great job helping other drivers and communicating effectively with staff. Riders enjoy his positive attitude and helpful nature," the release states.
From left, SWITA Transit Director Mark Lander, Special Recognition Recipient Steve Herrington and SWITA Transit Coordinator Kristen Templeton pose for a photo.
SWITA driver receives national recognition as 'Frontline Hero'
Steve Herrington received special recognition for his Frontline Hero Award. The national award recognizes going the extra mile.
"Steve is a well-respected member of the team, and it was wonderful to see him get recognition on the national scale," the release states.
SWITA also received a CTAA Partnership Award for providing vehicles to use during the national Transportation Roadeo held May 9-10 in Omaha.
From left, SWITA Transit Director Mark Lander, Rob Braunersrither, Lavonda Eckley, Mark Phippen, Mike Irvin and SWITA Transit Coordinator Kristen Templeton celebrate the 2025 Star Drivers. Not pictured is Pete Menke.
SWITA recognizes five Star Drivers from around the region: Pete Menke (Pottawattamie County), Michael Irvin (Mills County), Lavonda Eckley (Mills County), Mark Phippen (Cass County), and Rob Braunersrither (Shelby County).
From left, SWITA Transit Director Mark Lander, Ron Meier, Roger Jensen, Mike Rhode, Mike Irvin, James Watson, Lynn Baumbach, Dwayne Hemminger and SWITA Transit Coordinator Kristen Templeton celebrate the 2025-26 Years of Service honors. Not pictured are Shantal Martinez and Bob Lytle.
The public transit agency also recognized drivers for milestone years of service: Mike Rhode, 5 years; Mike Irvin, 5 years; Roger Jensen, 5 years; Ron Meier, 5 years; James Watson, 5 years; Shantal Martinez, 5 years; Bob Lytle, 10 years; Lynn Baumbach, 10 years; and Dwayne Hemminger, 20 years. Retired driver Brian Elliot was also honored for his 10 years of service and Gary Smithson for his 20 years of service.
