Minnesota Charter Operators Set New Attendance Records as Industry Leaders Push Collaboration Forward

Minnesota’s motorcoach industry hit record attendance at the MCBOA annual meeting, bringing drivers, operators, manufacturers, and national leaders together for updates on safety, equipment, policy changes, and workforce challenges. The event highlighted stronger collaboration, new programs, and growing momentum across the state’s charter and motorcoach community.

The Minnesota Charter Bus Operators Association just wrapped up its biggest annual meeting ever, and the turnout made it clear that motorcoach professionals across the state are looking for stronger communication, better tools, and more support for the road ahead. Held November 11–12 in Bloomington, the multi-day event brought together companies, drivers, airport officials, manufacturers, and national leaders for conversations that directly impact day-to-day operations and long-term industry stability.

The meeting packed in more sessions than past years, giving professionals a chance to dig into fleet safety practices, equipment updates, supply chain struggles, and real-world driver retention challenges. The expanded program included discussion-style sessions that encouraged open talk about what’s working in the field and what absolutely isn’t.

Airport officials from Minneapolis–St. Paul International was also on site with project updates and plans for smoother curbside coordination. For drivers and companies that serve MSP, this information is key for reducing congestion and improving scheduling efficiency.

National Industry Insights

The meeting also connected Minnesota operators with national organizations. Fred Ferguson, President and CEO of the American Bus Association, joined virtually from Washington to discuss tariff-related concerns and policy conversations happening at the federal level. Ken Presley from the United Motorcoach Association offered a broader look at regulatory changes and shifting industry trends.

During the event, MCBOA members confirmed the 2025 Board of Directors and recognized achievements across the industry. Three awards were presented by the previous year’s honorees.

Operator of the Year went to Steve Woelfel of Jefferson Lines.
Vendor of the Year went to Chris Riddell of TBN.
The Troy Voigt Memorial Leadership Award was presented to Rob Wicklund of Bemidji Bus Lines. This marked the first year of the award, created to honor Voigt’s legacy of leadership and service.

Riddell shared that the Vendor of the Year award aligns closely with TBN’s mission. “This industry has been through a lot, and our passion has always been about helping companies grow stronger — not just with software, but with strategy, data, and a vision for what’s coming and what’s possible,” he said. He also added, “I’ve spent more than 20 years in this industry, and I’ve never been more confident in its future. The best is yet to come for those who embrace change and position themselves to be the solution the traveling public wants and needs. I’m grateful every day that TBN gets to play a part in helping shape what’s next.”

MCBOA President Chad Ely noted that this year’s turnout reflects ongoing growth and momentum. “This year’s annual meeting demonstrated the momentum of MCBOA — with rising membership, deeper industry partnerships and an agenda shaped around real issues facing our operators and vendors,” he said.

MCBOA plans to build on that momentum with more programming and new educational opportunities expected soon. Sponsors included MCI as the Platinum Sponsor, along with the American Bus Association, Prevost, and Transportation Advisors as Gold Sponsors.

For motorcoach drivers and industry professionals, the record-setting meeting signals a stronger push for collaboration, more transparency on policy changes, and a growing commitment to helping operators and drivers stay ahead of challenges that continue to evolve nationwide.

Source: Bus and Motorcoach News