LYNCHBURG, Va. — The Virginia Association for Pupil Transportation (VAPT) sponsored the first technician competition of its kind in the state.

The first annual Virginia's Best School Bus Technician Competition was held Wednesday, with seven school districts participating.

The event was hosted by Thomas Built Buses dealership Sonny Merryman Inc., and further support was provided by the Virginia Department of Education and Kingmor Supply.

The competition consisted of a school bus technical knowledge written exam as well as a hands-on diagnostic and troubleshooting exercise. The first prize winner received a trophy and $100 cash prize, while second place received a $50 cash prize.

This year's competitors included:

1st Place: Richard White, York County, Va.
2nd Place: Bill Alsko, Hopewell, Va.
Kevin Hubble, Newport News, Va.
Ken Yohe, Bath County, Va.
Andy Sherrer, Chesterfield County, Va.
Aaron McKimmey, Loudon County, Va.
Paul Townsend, Buckingham County, Va.

The first place finisher, Richard White, will represent Virginia at the National Association for Pupil Transportation's (NAPT) America's Best competition taking place this fall in Jasper, Ind., in either the school bus technician or the school bus inspector category.

"We are extremely excited to have had such a successful inaugural contest," said Bob Clinebell, fleet manager of Virginia Beach City Public Schools and VAPT organizing chair for the event. "Virginia has exceptionally talented and professionally-minded school bus technicians, so we are thrilled to have a format for recognizing these dedicated individuals."