Read This: 5 Questions with David Wright of Forest River Bus on Guiding Collins into the Future
Forest River Announces New Management Team
Following the passing of the company's founder, Forest River has announced a new team of three to lead the manufacturer into the future.

Three individuals will now guide Forest River's products, service, and business.
Logo: Forest River | Photo: SBF/Canva
Last Friday, Forest River — the parent company behind Collins Bus and Trans Tech — announced a new management team, succeeding its CEO and Founder Pete Liegl, who died last November.
The bus and van manufacturer will be now led by two co-CEOs and a CFO, effective immediately. The team includes:
Doug Gaeddert, Co-CEO
David Wright, Co-CEO
Darrel Ritchie, Chief Financial Officer
Together, the three will co-manage the strategic direction of the company. Gaeddert will run the RV division while Wright will run the Commercial Bus & Van and Marine divisions.
"Pete's vision and dedication were fundamental to Forest River's growth and success," a statement read. "As we move forward, we are confident that the strong foundation he built will continue to inspire and guide us."
The company added that the new structure marks the next phase for the company, but it plans to continue to meet the needs of its customer, dealers, and employees with little disruption.
More Management

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
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.
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 →
Changing Lanes: Executive Moves at Summit School Services, Zum, STA, Cummins, Transit Technologies, Driventic, & Cadex
See who's been hired, promoted, and appointed to leadership positions at various school transportation industry suppliers and private contractors.
Read More →
Texas Sixth Grader Wins 2026 National School Bus Safety Poster Contest
Sai Darshana Yekolu of Moseley Middle School in Prosper, Texas, was named the newest winner for her artwork, bringing the theme of “Safe Rides, Everyday Heroes” to life.
Read More →
Industry Moves: Companies Expand Fleet Service & EV Infrastructure Footprints
The new facilities and regional hubs could mean faster access to shop equipment, charging support, and transportation technology for fleet operators.
Read More →
Doing More With Less: How Transportation Directors Can Prioritize Safety Amid Budget Uncertainty
With diesel prices soaring and nearly one-third of transportation directors expecting budget cuts, maintaining student safety has never been more challenging. Download this guide to learn how leading districts are prioritizing risk, funding critical safety technology, and building stronger budget cases with data.
Read More →
Walton County Schools Adds Gatekeeper Stop-Arm Enforcement System
The Florida district will deploy Gatekeeper’s updated Student Protector technology, which now incorporates AI to improve video evidence.
Read More →


