IndyGo coach operator wins ROSE Award; body shop mechanic honored
Two IndyGo employees were honored March 11 at the 29th Annual ROSE Awards.
Baba Diop, a professional coach operator, and Charlie Watkins, a body shop mechanic, were both nominated for awards. Diop was selected as a winner of a ROSE Award.
The ROSE Awards celebrate excellence in the service industry, and employees whose dedication to their community, coworkers and organizations goes beyond what is in their job description.
Baba Diop, a professional coach operator with 10 years of experience, was honored for his commitment to his riders—even in his time off. Diop noticed a frequent rider struggling with a broken wheelchair and provided the rider with a new one. The rider and Diop formed a friendship, and Diop even went on to assist the rider in finding a new home.
Charlie Watkins, a body shop mechanic, has worked at IndyGo for eight years. Watkins, known by his coworkers as a “go-getter,” is always looking for new solutions in the garage, says IndyGo. He is responsible for building battery carts, engine stands and more. Watkins’ dedication to innovation demonstrates his determination to help IndyGo serve its riders as efficiently as possible.
“Both Baba and Charlie demonstrate what’s best about IndyGo: dedication to providing the best possible service to our riders,” said Aaron Vogel, chief operating officer of IndyGo. “Whether that means going above and beyond for a rider on the bus or thinking strategically about managing our resources to ensure service is effective, these two are great examples of strong customer service.”
Diop and Watkins’ contributions to IndyGo are among the many notable acts of customer service IndyGo’s employees make every day, says the agency. Wednesday, March 18 is Transit Employee Appreciation Day. Riders are encouraged to tell IndyGo drivers and other staff why they value their contributions to Indianapolis.
“Providing reliable service is essential to our riders, and we couldn’t do it without our team of hardworking staff,” said Inez Evans, president and CEO of IndyGo. “It’s so important to recognize the commitment and dedication of our employees, so please take a moment to thank the folks that drive our city this upcoming Transit Employee Appreciation Day.”