Interviewing this year’s crop of Trailblazers and our Administrator of the Year, I couldn’t help but think of the line from the 2000 movie “Bring It On” when the Clovers say, “They should call us inspiration leaders” instead of cheerleaders.
There’s no doubt about it, these award winners are inspirational. And they exemplify leadership in action — guiding their teams, shaping their communities, and driving positive change for our industry. All qualities that are essential in student transportation.
There were many common threads among this year’s winners. Among them: A passion for student safety, a dedication to making a difference, and a desire to see the industry evolve to truly appreciate and advocate for school bus drivers and administrators.
What I love about this industry is that it’s not a place for egos. It’s not really about any of us; it’s about the children we serve and ensuring they have a safe, reliable ride to school so they can receive an education.
My favorite quote from this issue came from one of our 2025 Trailblazers Whitney Kopanko, who said, “The school bus is more than just transportation; it’s a yellow beacon of opportunity.”
I’m not sure I have a quote quite that eloquent, but learning about the stories of the 13 individuals in this issue reminded me of the lessons I’ve picked up along the way — insights that continue to shape my own journey.
What I’ve Learned About Leadership
About six years ago, I participated in a local women’s leadership program, which exposed me to a slew of other women just like me, hungry for growth, and speakers and experiences ready to deliver on that promise. One of the takeaways I’ve kept in my back pocket is this: Sometimes, mastering a skill is less like changing who you are and more like wearing a hat. For instance, you don’t have to be an assertive person; you can choose when to be assertive, when to step up, and when to step back.
When I used to write for SBF's sister publication, Auto Rental News, Sharky Laguana shared advice on building trust with others. It’s simple, but I’ve never forgotten it. Basically, be reliable. If you say you’re going to do something, do it. Hold yourself accountable always.
Here’s a peek behind the scenes: Before nearly any event — personal or professional — if it involves being in a location I haven’t been to before or being around people I don’t yet know, I experience significant anxiety going into it. I worry that I’ll say or do something dumb, embarrass myself or others, or damage relationships.
How often has that worst-case scenario actually happened, though? Truthfully, a small handful of times. After all, no one can get through life completely unscathed. I’ve said or done things that in retrospect weren’t right.
I’ve learned from those moments and came out the other side, though. Taking accountability for your actions and apologizing when you are wrong is honorable. More important is to do better next time.
Nine times out of 10, I leave new situations pleasantly surprised. By putting yourself out there, you can truly grow.
I’ve identified as an awkward introvert for most of my life. That’s why I love writing, because I get to take my time wording something just how I want it. When I speak, sometimes my mouth doesn’t say what my brain wants it to. But how does one fix that? Practice. And a bit of learning to stop caring so much about what others think of you (easier said than done, I know).
Another instrumental lesson came from my therapist about 10 years ago, who reminded me that strong leaders value the insights of others who are unlike them. If there is someone you work with who you just don’t quite groove with, begin to actively seek out their perspective. It may be unpleasant at first, but after a while, it will pay off.
Which brings me to another point: Make yourself uncomfortable. This is another piece of advice from our newest Administrator of the Year. This could be saying yes to opportunities that scare you or putting yourself in situations that typically make you squirm.
Leadership Qualities I Admire
Through trial and error, I’ve found that these qualities define the best leaders, in my opinion:
Give grace to others but hold firm to your values.
Don't cave when you know something is right.
Learn what your co-workers do and how to do it. Don't be afraid to get in the trenches. No one is above grunt work.
Know when to delegate and trust the strengths of the people on your team. You can’t do everything yourself.
Let go of perfection. Know when something is “good enough.”
Be open to new ideas. Listen to all voices in the room, even those — especially those — who are different than you.
Treat others how you want to be treated. No one is above anyone else, and we are all doing our best.
Don’t avoid conflict. Learn how to have crucial conversations.
Hold yourself and others accountable.
Never stop learning.
If you’ve identified with this, I encourage you to take the leap. Say yes to something new. And keep learning from the incredible leaders around you, including the ones featured in this issue who’ve been in pupil transportation much longer than me.
What’s your best leadership tip? Email me your feedback at amanda.huggett@bobit.com.
