King County Metro announces operator of the year for 2019

Mary Hopson was selected by King County Metro Transit Operators of the Month to be named operator of the year for 2019.

The COVID-19 pandemic delayed recognition of Hopson's achievement.

Hopson was surprised by her family and King County Metro staff at a ceremony celebrating her award.

Selected by her fellow operators of the month from 2019, those 84 drivers from King County Metro’s seven transit bases considered Hopson the “best of the best.” Comments from riders on Hopson’s routes were also taken into consideration when making the final choice, along with her safety record, attendance and following King County Metro’s rules and procedures.

Hopson started working for King County Metro in 1980 and has earned a 37-year Safe Driver Award and received 13 commendations. She drives out of King County Metro’s Central Base and is currently driving Metro Route 106, which goes from Renton through Skyway, Rainier Beach, along Martin Luther King to Rainier Avenue and into the International District/Chinatown.

After driving for four decades, Hopson has gained a lot of admirers. Riders have been praising her for years, sending their messages to King County Metro’s customer service staff.

Born and raised in Seattle, she is a graduate of Garfield High School. She and her husband have been together 42 years and have two children and five grandchildren. When not behind the wheel, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her family.

Central Base Superintendent Aiyana Brown said that Hopson is a proud parent who enjoys talking about her family. She said Hopson also is a willing mentor, providing advice and ideas to new operators.

“Mary is just a great presence at the base,” said Brown.

At the ceremony, Hopson received a ring designating her as King County Metro’s 2019 Operator of the Year. She will also receive public recognition of her achievement when her image is placed on bus cards both inside and outside on King County Metro coaches. The same image will be on the cover of the Route Book used by King County Metro transit operators.

Tim Flanagan, King County Metro’s director of bus operations, said Hopson’s service to the community serves as an example to all Transit Operators.

“Mary’s commitment to her passengers is recognized by the commendations she has received, and by her fellow drivers, who consider her one of the best. This is a well-deserved honor.”

Her advice for her fellow operators is fitting for a driver who has been on the road for four decades: “Follow the rules, policies and procedures. Mind your business and stay out of the mess.”