NextStop Blog

The Missouri Public Transit Association (MPTA) recently recognized three outstanding members of the Metro Transit team for their exceptional service and dedication to their customers. MetroLink Operator Tiara Lockwood, Metro Call‑A‑Ride Operator Jerome Pampkin, and MetroBus Operator Jimmy Braxton were all named as 2023 Missouri Transit Operator Champions at the recent Midwest Transit Conference in Kansas City.

Tiara Lockwood is known for her punctuality and hardworking personality.  She’s been a “go-to” person at Metro Transit for more than seven years. Whenever our Operations team is short of hands and needs to get a MetroLink train out, Tiara is the one they call. Her impeccable record with no customer complaints is a testament to her dedication to serving her community and caring for MetroLink riders.

Jerome Pampkin, who has also been named Metro Call‑A‑Ride Operator of the Year for the last two consecutive years, is an outstanding leader on the Call‑A‑Ride team. He accrued no accidents, no disciplinary action, no customer complaints, and over five customer compliments while working at least 1,900 hours each year. He is a model for other team members and we are honored to have him a part of the Metro Call‑A‑Ride team.

Operator Jimmy Braxton is another stellar member of the Metro team. He’s been a MetroBus operator for 38 years. Jimmy is dedicated to serving his community and even maintained perfect attendance during the COVID-19 pandemic. He is an inspiration to new team members, and his commitment to providing excellent service and creating enjoyable customer experiences is a testament to his unwavering dedication

The MPTA recognized these individuals for going above and beyond the call of duty to serve their communities and care for their riders. All three of these operators have demonstrated exceptional qualities that make them true champions of the Missouri transit community.

Please join us in congratulating Tiara, Jerome, and Jimmy on this well-deserved recognition. Thank you for your hard work and dedication – we are grateful to have you on our team!