First Student names area GM of Alaska locations
In the Alaska role, Laura Hansen works closely with local management teams and oversees operations for locations, financial results, safety, and fleet and maintenance. The First Student veteran most recently served as senior location manager for the school transportation provider's Portland, Ore., facility.
School transportation provider First Student has appointed Laura Hansen area general manager of the company’s Alaska locations.
In this role, Hansen works closely with local management teams and oversees operations for locations, financial results, safety, and fleet and maintenance.
First Student officials said that Hansen brings in-depth knowledge of the student transportation industry. She began her career with the company in 1996.
Most recently, Hansen served as the senior location manager for First Student's Portland, Ore., facility. There, she was responsible for overseeing a fleet of 195 buses serving Portland Public Schools as well as providing support to several neighboring operating locations.
“I am excited about the opportunity to work with Laura as she takes on this new role,” said Cal Hull, First Student senior vice president. “I have every confidence in her ability to bring our Alaska locations to a new level of performance and success.”
Another recent story on First Student:
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 →

