Metro Transit Bus Operator Bradley Schneider is preparing for retirement next year. But before he steps away, the Bus Roadeo and three-time garage champion is making sure the next generation is ready to carry the load.
“I’ve got about twenty-four years of driving under my belt,” Bradley said. “Twelve here, two with another company, and ten years driving trucks before that. It’s been a long road.”
That experience made him a natural fit for Metro Transit’s mentorship program. For the past seven years, he’s guided new drivers like Donald Heinze.
“Having someone like Bradley in your corner makes a huge difference,” Donald said. “He gives real-world advice that makes the job easier, safer, and better.”
Donald came to Metro Transit with some familiarity with city buses. But it was Bradley’s guidance that helped him adjust to the job’s demands.
“He taught me how to read a route, time my checkpoints to the second, and even little things like how to make a tight inside left turn without cutting traffic,” Donald said.
For Bradley, mentorship is about building confidence and community.
“I’ve always asked questions in my career,” he said. “So when someone asks me why we make a certain turn or how to handle a tricky customer, I want to give them a real answer — not just say ‘figure it out.’”
Their relationship quickly grew beyond training. When Donald had a difficult passenger incident recently, Bradley didn’t hesitate.
“He texted me right away: ‘Want me to ride with you Thursday?’ That kind of support is huge,” Donald said. “He doesn’t just talk, he shows up.
As Bradley plans to retire next year, he’s proud of what he’s leaving behind.
“There are drivers I’ve mentored like Donald that I know are going places,” he said. “That feels good. Like I’m passing something on.”
Donald hopes to stay with Metro Transit for decades — and eventually mentor new drivers, just as Bradley did for him.
“This job isn’t easy,” Donald said. “But when someone who’s been there rides with you, answers your texts, and shows you the ropes, it makes a world of difference.”
Bradley smiled.
“I just want to help somebody run a clean route and get home safe,” he said. “That’s the win.”