First Transit and First Vehicle Services added five new maintenance locations that have earned the Blue Seal of Excellence. This brings the current number to 72 certified shops across North America.

The Blue Seal of Excellence is given by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). To receive ASE's Blue Seal of Excellence, 75% of the service technicians at a location must be certified by ASE. In addition, there must be a certified technician in each area of service offered.

First Transit maintains and provides vehicle maintenance services for more than 12,000 buses, including traditional transit and double-decker buses, alternative fuel, electric and shared-autonomous vehicles.

First Vehicle Services maintains and provides vehicle maintenance services for more than 36,000 pieces of equipment, ranging from vehicles for law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical service to trucks, construction equipment and aerial lift trucks.

The First Transit and First Vehicle Services locations received ASE’s Blue Seal certification for their achievement in recruiting the best employees, supporting their training, and providing the best equipment to maintain the vehicles.

These locations are among the 145 to have achieved Blue Seal status throughout FirstGroup America, the parent company of First Transit. FirstGroup America includes school bus operator First Student and Greyhound Lines Inc. This is the most of any transportation company in North America.