For those who’ve spent decades behind the wheel, under the hood, or leading a team in passenger transport, experience is more than just years served—it’s the backbone of the industry. Brian Dickson, founder of Bus Business Consultants and a longtime contributor to Bus & Motorcoach News, has launched a new video series called 40 Over 40 Legends, celebrating professionals who have dedicated forty or more years to shaping ground transportation.
While most recognition lists focus on young up-and-comers, this series flips the script, spotlighting the veterans whose hard work, innovation, and mentorship built the foundation that future generations now stand on.
The newest feature highlights Mike Waters, whose remarkable 60-year career includes time as a driver, mechanic, owner-operator, and leader of Coach America’s San Francisco division. His story is one of loyalty, grit, and a deep respect for the people who make this business move.
Click here to watch the video.
“I had the privilege of sitting down with Mike Waters, whose career in our industry spans nearly 60 years,” Dickson said. “Mike began in 1967, cleaning buses for his uncle’s company in San Francisco. From there, he worked his way through nearly every role imaginable — driver, mechanic, owner-operator — before leading Coach America’s San Francisco operation, part of what was then the nation’s largest private charter and tour network.”
Waters continues to share his leadership and experience through his ongoing work with Coach USA, where his people-first mindset still sets the tone.
In their conversation, Waters reflected on how the industry has evolved—from mechanical innovations and safety advances to changes in operations and company culture. What hasn’t changed, he said, is the need to treat employees like family and always keep safety at the heart of every decision.
Waters’ advice for today’s up-and-coming leaders is simple and powerful:
“Care for employees, serve customers well, and never compromise on safety.”
He also spoke about what motivates him after nearly six decades on the job. Referring to data from the American Bus Association, which notes that motorcoach operators move more than 400 million passengers annually, Waters put that staggering figure into perspective.
“We move a lot of people,” Waters told Dickson. “And we do it safely. That takes commitment from everyone — the driver, the mechanic, the shop, the leadership team. It’s not just about buses; it’s about lives. And when you step back and realize the scale of what we do, you can’t help but feel proud to be part of it.”
Dickson is continuing the 40 Over 40 Legends series and welcomes recommendations for future honorees who’ve dedicated their careers to the bus and motorcoach world. Suggestions can be sent to [email protected].
Image Source: Bus and Motorcoach News
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