Over the past 23 years, John (pictured) and Larry Benjamin, co-owners of the Minnesota-based business, have built up their companies to become award-winning motorcoach and school bus operations. Meanwhile, the industry says goodbye to Larry, a well-loved member who made invaluable contributions through the UMA.

Funding did run a close second, at 23 percent. Several survey respondents cited difficulties of complying with regulations across multiple municipalities and jurisdictions, including traffic signal priority agreements.

Working on motorcoaches and buses nearly his entire life has taught METRO magazine’s Operator of the Year award winner Dale Krapf, chairman of the board, Krapf Bus Companies, how to adapt and grow in an industry that is constantly in flux and comes with multiple opportunities disguised as challenges.