The Greater New Jersey Motorcoach Association honored six “standout” industry employees with the 2022 Motorcoach Professional Awards. The award presentation was held during the GNJMA Spring Association Meeting at Wind Creek Bethlehem on March 14.
The GNJMA Motorcoach Professional Awards is a way for members to recognize outstanding employees in front of fellow members, industry leaders, peers and friends. Recipients received a monetary gift, plaque, overnight accommodations and other gifts from GNJMA’s casino partners.
This year’s honorees are:
Tom Shellenberger, Bailey Coach: He joined the team at Bailey’s 12 years ago as a part-time motorcoach driver. Since then, he has driven over 1,000 trips for Bailey Coach. “Tom has proven to be a very valuable asset and has shown true dedication in everything he does,” his employer said in nominating him. “He often is requested to be the assigned driver by certain groups due to his outgoing and friendly personality. His safety record is proof of his exceptional skills as a professional motorcoach driver.”
Darlene Madu, DeCamp Bus Lines: Madu has consistently exceeded expectations in her role. “Her attention to detail, exceptional customer service skills, and ability to effectively communicate with customers have made her a valuable asset to the DeCamp team,” her employer noted.
Chris Martin, Lakeland Bus Lines: Martin has been working at Lakeland Bus Lines for over 25 years. He works the night shift three days a week and Saturday, Sunday and holidays. “If Lakeland needs a driver to cover line work or a charter, Chris can always find one,” his employer said. “Chris is the type of person Lakeland is proud to have represent their company.”
Aridia Recio, Panorama Tours. This year, Panorama Tours asked its employees to vote for a peer who exemplifies what it means to be a “Panorama Professional,” and Aridia Recio embodies those qualities. “Aridia’s dedication to safety, customer service, and kindness is unmatched,” the company noted. Over the last year, Aridia has garnered nearly two dozen five-star reviews on Google.”
Glen Pearce, Starr Bus Charter & Tours: He is the type of driver you give to a group and don’t have to worry about, his employer said. “Glen is super dependable and flexible. He represents the company in a professional, courteous, and friendly manner. He is a true asset to Starr, completing 200+ trips per year, and is three years accident free.”
James Dickerson, Stout’s Charter Service: Dickerson has been a motorcoach driver with Stout’s for eight years. He is respected by all, including his peers, who voted for him to receive this award. “James shows exemplary care to his motorcoach,” his employer said. “He maintains the equipment well, routinely does all pre- and post-trip inspections, and his idling percentage and safety scores are among the best in their fleet. In addition, James is one of the most requested drivers due to his exceptional customer-service skills.”
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