5 Questions with David Wright of Forest River Bus oin Guiding Collins into the Future
Forest River Bus Acquires Trans Tech Bus
This is the second Type A school bus manufacturer - after Collins Bus - taken over by Forest River this year.

New York's only school bus manufacturer moves operations to Indiana at the end of August 2024.
Source: Trans Tech Bus, Canva
New York's only school bus manufacturer, Trans Tech Bus, is expected to move operations to Indiana at the end of August after an acquisition by Forest River Bus.
The Type A bus manufacturer, which unveiled an all-electric model in late 2023, agreed to be acquired by one of the leading shuttle bus, school bus, and van manufacturers in the United States. Forest River also acquired Collins Bus, another Type A bus builder, in early 2024.
"We are honored to be taking the reins of such an accomplished and revered company," said David Wright, president of Forest River Bus. "We are looking forward to continuing the pioneering legacy of Trans Tech Bus and ensuring school districts and contractors continue to receive school buses that are safe, efficient, and built to last."
According to a news release, Forest River's management team will work with Trans Tech Bus managers over the next few months "to begin the knowledge transfer necessary to ensure a seamless transition in manufacturing process." The company is expected to maintain strong dealer relationships and customer support under the new ownership.
"We are very proud of our team, the company we've built, and the industry-leading school buses that we manufacture, but it's time to pass the baton to an organization that can take the product to even greater heights," said John Corr, owner of Trans Tech Bus.
Said John Phraner, Trans Tech Bus president: "Forest River shares our passion for building a bus driver's bus and commitmewnt to customer-inspired innovation and will ensure the brand continues to build Type A school buses with unmatched versatility and the durability of a big bus. Our success over the last three decades is a result of our team's commitment to building the best Type A school bus on the road, our customers who help drive innovation and build quality, and the dedication of our dealerships who sell, service, and support the Trans Tech Bus product."
More Management
How to Build a Better Driver Training Program
Ready to boost up your school bus instructor training? Here’s how to pick the right talent and improve recruitment, retention, and safety.
Read More →
CALSTART and Forth Combine to Form Catalyst Mobility
The new name represents a renewed vision for the nonprofit focused on advancing clean, equitable, and affordable transportation solutions that move people and goods.
Read More →
What Makes a Great School Bus Driver Trainer?
Choosing the right school bus driver trainer takes more than experience. Learn six keys to selecting and developing trainers and evaluating program effectiveness.
Read More →
School Bus Contractors Expand Through New Deals, Acquisitions & Partnerships
STA's Canadian division acquires Ontario-based G&L Stevenson Transport while Durham School Services adds a new district contract in California, First Student adds a New Jersey contract, and Minnesota Coaches acquires Halo Transportation.
Read More →
Logan Bus Company Rolls Out AI Phone System for NYC School Bus Families
A summer pilot found that AI agents could handle most routine calls, freeing up time for customer service staff to focus on emergencies and complex family concerns.
Read More →
From Intent to Impact: What I Learned About Leadership from TAPT
A Texas transportation supervisor shares lessons on self-awareness, accountability, managing stress and building trust — and why investing in leadership development matters at every stage of your career.
Read More →
NAPT Names 2026 Award Recipients, Hall of Fame Inductee
Who earned national recognition for their work in student transportation? This year, NAPT named five recipients of its 2026 awards for service, safety, and leadership, plus its newest Hall of Famer.
Read More →
2026 State of Student Transportation Report
Driver shortages. Rising costs. Growing safety expectations. More data, but not enough time to act on it. The 2026 State of Student Transportation Report reveals what transportation leaders say is putting the most pressure on their operations—and where they’re investing next. See how your priorities compare.
Read More →
How to De-Escalate an Angry Person: 5 Steps for Handling Workplace Conflict
What makes emotions run high, and how should you handle an angry colleague or parent? Follow these steps for staying calm, listening, showing empathy, and resolving conflict.
Read More →
What Readiness Looks Like This School Year
Learn about the challenges shaping the 2026–2027 school year, from persistent driver shortages and budget pressure to technology and readiness gaps. See how school districts are responding and adapting in Zonar’s 2026 Back-to-School Readiness Report.
Read More →


