As people filed into the Bus Operations Maintenance Facility Bus Operator Training Room on Wednesday, March 27, 2025, they were greeted with a lifetime’s worth of images displayed on a big screen: company baseball teams, holiday parties, fashion shows, people just enjoying time with one another. Each photo shared a couple traits with the ones before and after: images of five GoTriangle employees who were being honored for many years of outstanding service; and in every photo, the smiles were contagious.
It’s easy to be happy when you are celebrating employees, some of whom have been with the organization long enough to have worked through three name/logo rebrandings, multiple CEOs – and more.
“We are recognizing some heavy hitters today,” said Robin Leonard, Transit Service Supervisor. “They cannot be overlooked or lightly esteemed.”
On this day, the Employee Service Award Celebration recognized the following individuals:
- - Vanessa S. Battle - Contracted Services Coordinator - 25 years of service
- - Cheryl D. Hester - Bus Operator III - 20 years of service
- - Sergey Alexandrov - Bus Operator III – 15 years of service
- - Arlo Smith - Behind the Wheel Trainer - 15 years of service
- -Felicia Martin, Behind the Wheel Trainer - 10 years of service
Battle has moved up the ranks at GoTriangle, beginning her career as a Bus Operator I before becoming a Bus Operator II, III and then Vanpool Manager before transitioning to Contracted Services Coordinator.
“They give us a fair chance,” said Battle about her career. “If you work hard and are interested in moving up, GoTriangle is one of the places where you have the space to do that.”
Audra Foree, Director of Transit Partnerships, called Battle “selfless.”
“She is always willing to help,” she said before turning to Battle. “I appreciate the person you are, the type of work ethic you have, and that we as an organization have been able to keep you for this long.”
GoTriangle Chief of Operations Vinson Hines, Jr., described Hester as a “Tasmanian Devil,” someone whose work ethic is second to none.
“She’s always asking for more.”
“She’s one of the hardest working women I know,” added Leonard. “I have seen her cover every shift under the sun – even in bad weather – and still come back for more.”
Smith and Alexandrov began in the same company training class. Fifteen years later they are still providing premium value for their GoTriangle family – and customers. “They do their work and do it proudly,” said Director of Bus Operations Christal DeCastro. “They make all our lives easier.”
Alexandrov, known also for his ever-present smile and international sweet treats, is the “perfect all-around employee,” according to Leonard.
“I like the people that work here – they’re dedicated to helping people get around,” said Alexandrov. “It’s what we do.”
Smith, who recently became Behind the Wheel Trainer, is “low-key but thorough,” according to Leonard.
“I’m so glad to see him adapting to a new role.”
Smith points to the GoTriangle culture as a reason he has excelled for so long.
“Everybody helps each other out. You are allowed to learn.”
Martin was described as a seasoned professional with an impeccable work ethic. [She was unable to attend the ceremony due to CDL Training.]
“She’s an asset to our team,” said Tamika Wilson, Training Specialist.
“Flea,” as Hines calls her, “has always been professional, she has always jumped right in. I really appreciate those attributes.”
On this day of celebration, those attributes -- professionalism, work ethic, loyalty and dedication – were ever-present – just like these five individuals have been for many, many years.
“We don’t always get it right, and we’re not perfect,” said Hines, “but thank you for sticking with us.”