Known for his unwavering composure, remarkable technical skills, and dedication to continuous improvement, Wes Kanaga has left an indelible mark on the motorcoach industry. For those who have observed his career, he’s remembered as the technician who thrived under pressure without ever losing his cool—even during the high-stakes UMA Maintenance Competition.
“Wes Kanaga? Coolest customer ever,” said Kevin Whitworth, organizer of the competition, during Kanaga’s UMA Ring of Honor induction ceremony. “While others were sweating, he was breathing calmly.”
That unshaken demeanor became Kanaga’s hallmark throughout his career, earning him admiration for his expertise and collected approach. This year, his contributions were honored with the industry’s most prestigious accolade: induction into the UMA Ring of Honor during the 2025 UMA Motorcoach EXPO in Oklahoma City this past February.
Kanaga, who now serves as Service Manager at TEMSA North America, garnered recognition for his notable achievements while working with Peoria Charter in Illinois. His accomplishments include winning the UMA Maintenance Competition three consecutive years—in 2009, 2010, and 2011.
“Recognition from one’s peers is the highest form of compliment anyone can receive,” Kanaga said following his induction.
An Incredible Career Built on Excellence
Whitworth praised Kanaga’s career-long commitment to professionalism and meticulous attention to detail.
“He maintained five different brands in his fleet,” Whitworth noted. “After Peoria, he went on to manage operations in Orlando and eventually landed at TEMSA North America. He’s had an incredible career.”
When accepting his award, Kanaga humbly acknowledged the people who supported him.
“First, I’d like to thank Kevin. He has a passion for our maintenance community and doesn’t give up,” Kanaga shared. “I also want to thank my family. They’ve made sacrifices so I could stay in this business.”
The Trademark Calm Under Pressure
Kanaga’s ability to stay calm and collected in high-pressure situations earned him a legendary reputation. He reflected on his approach to competition, “Someone always asks if I was nervous. Oh yeah. I just did a few deep breaths and went to work. You reach a point where you have to have a certain amount of confidence.”
Recollecting his first competition, Kanaga explained, “I was extremely nervous. I tried not to show it. I didn’t want people thinking I was afraid of it. So, I’d back up, take a deep breath, get my zen together, and then just do what I was there to do.”
For Kanaga, competition was never about defeating others. Instead, it was a personal challenge.
“My biggest competition? It wasn’t other people. It was the guy I was yesterday,” he said. “I’ve always tried to be better than him.”
A Passion Rooted in His Teens
Kanaga’s mechanical expertise developed early. At 13, he initially began working for a local mechanic to trim hedges—but his duties quickly shifted.
“He brought me into the shop instead,” Kanaga recalled. “Next thing you know, I had a toolbox there. I was going in after school and on weekends. He was quite the mentor. At 13, who knows what they want to do? But by 14, I did. I enjoyed it.”
After high school, he gained further experience working at a Chrysler dealership, maintaining city vehicles, and at a Ford dealership. Eventually, he spent 21 years at Peoria Charter, where he progressed from a line technician to running the maintenance shop.
“I came in there knowing very little about it,” Kanaga said. “After a few years, I took over running the shop. So I guess I picked it up pretty well.”
Achievement Through Dedication
Kanaga first participated in the UMA Maintenance Interchange in 2007 and competed for the first time in 2008, earning second place.
“I was shocked to do that well, based on the talent I saw,” he said. “After that, I made a point to be there. I always looked forward to doing it, meeting the people involved. A lot of fun.”
Kanaga’s career took him from Peoria to Florida, where he joined Mears Transportation. After subsequent roles with MCI and MV Transportation, he transitioned to his current position at TEMSA North America, returning to the motorcoach industry he holds dear.
Though Kanaga no longer competes, he’s committed to mentoring the next generation of technicians.
“It’s a great bunch of people. And with talent like that, you have to challenge yourself. If you get too comfortable, it doesn’t work,” Kanaga noted. “You fall into a slump.”
Looking Forward to 2026
Whitworth hinted at Kanaga’s upcoming involvement in next year’s UMA Motorcoach EXPO.
“For those of you competing in the 2026 Maintenance Competition in Birmingham, our three-time Grand Champion and Ring of Honor inductee will be rigging the defects on the TEMSA coach. Buckle your seat belts, boys and girls!”
Kanaga’s career exemplifies dedication, humility, and a relentless pursuit of self-improvement. His story continues to inspire as he transitions from competitor to mentor, leaving an enduring legacy in the motorcoach industry.
Source: Bus and Motorcoach News
Image Source: Bus and Motorcoach News) Wes Kanga, center, is the first inducted into the UMA’s newly revealed Ring of Honor.
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