After 7 years working in housing construction, James Leonard was laid off. In 1987, his brother-in-law suggested he apply to be a bus operator like him, and even drove him onsite to fill out an application.

"I was thinking of going back to finish college," Leonard said. "But after all the fun I had as a driver, I forgot all about it and have been here ever since."

Growing up in St. Paul, Leonard was no stranger to transit. He took routes 16 and 21 to and from the Mechanic Arts school, and to the roller rink with friends. He fondly remembers the operator who built a relationship with him and the vehicle he drove. They were the same models he'd drive, too.

"Those red buses, the Am Generals and Flexes… they had no power steering or air conditioning," he said. "You'd have to stand up to make corners."

Without air conditioning, he got creative on staying cool while operating some of his favorite routes, like Route 18 or the old 6 line. As the years progressed, he was glad to have power steering and AC on every bus, which helped not only operators, but also customers.

"I really enjoyed being onboard with customers and seeing a variety of different people," Leonard said. “And building relationships with those customers who rode with me five days a week.”

He's grateful for his time at transit, which he credits helping him raise a family and put his three kids through college. He’ll miss the cards and well wishes from customers, but after 34 years, he’s looking forward to retirement.

"I truly enjoyed my job, but now it's time for a new adventure," he said.

In retirement, he plans to leave winter behind, first by moving to Las Vegas and then eventually hopes to live abroad in southeast Asia.