DRIVING THE INDUSTRY SINCE 1991
of the population we serve. We work hard at finding solutions to our challenges. We were some of the first to recruit women drivers, conduct drug testing, computerize student transportation, and first to provide handi- capped transportation. We try to always provide buses with the latest safety improvements. Currently, we are working with GPS systems, propane autogas power and air-disc brakes, just to name a few.
STN: How do you utilize your company’s history and reputation when bidding for
new contracts? KOBUSSEN: We know there is always another company that will provide cheaper- priced service. We rely on our history and reputation as proof that we take pride in our business, and we will offer safer eco-efficient services.
STN: If the company is looking to ex-
pand, what is the plan? KOBUSSEN: Kobussen is looking to
expand the contracted market in Wisconsin. We are confident that private contractors can provide a better service at a lower cost than district-owned operations can.
STN: How does the company set up its procedures, and how does it maintain its
level of customer service? KOBUSSEN: As we have grown, we have
been fortunate to find well-qualified people who feel the same way we do about safe, efficient school bus operations. We have lev- eraged computers and the Internet to first keep common databases; then we moved to shared procedures. Now, we are starting to integrate data
directly from the driver and customers into our systems. For example, customers will be able to book trips online directly into our charter system, and our drivers will be able to complete time and mileage information into our system.
STN: Amid increased federal and state
budget cuts, do you think cutbacks to school districts could actually make districts not consider outsourcing their student transpor-
tation services? KOBUSSEN: I think the opposite is happening; districts are using outsourcing of transportation as a solution to their budget crises. We (the districts and the transporta- tion industry) must be careful not to allow a reduction in school bus services, because we know students are safer in school buses than
www.stnonline.com 21 Benefits
● Decrease passing violations ● Increased visibility
● More cost-effective than traditional units
● LED lighting design = years of maintenance-free service
● Installs in minutes
● Kit composition = four 12-LED lights, mounting screws and harness
they are in any other type of vehicle. STN: How do you see the current land-
scape with private contractors? It seems that some companies are growing in size, which may allow them to dominate in certain mar- kets, but then does this pave the way for new or existing providers like Kobussen to also
enter into new markets? What’s your take? KOBUSSEN: I think business works
best when it operates in a free and equal playing field. We need to make sure we have a level-playing field with the district-run operations and other non-private transpor- tation providers. Te key is to have some regulation to keep minimum standards, but not too much where it becomes prohibitive to operate or forces all businesses to operate exactly the same, eliminating the ability to innovate.
Bus
Stop Arm Retrofit LED
Upgrade Kit
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