PSTA Honors Remarkable Driver of the Year

Who: Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA)

What: Recognizing the agency’s 2012 Driver of the Year, Johnnie Dixon

When: 9 a.m., Sept. 26

Where: At the monthly PSTA Board of Directors’ meeting, 3201 Scherer Dr., St. Petersburg

Why: To honor Mr. Dixon’s outstanding dedication, service and devotion to his community

Please join the PSTA Board of Directors as they honor Bus Operator Johnnie Dixon as PSTA’s 2012 Driver of the Year. Mr. Dixon’s accomplishment will be honored at the start of the regular monthly meeting this Wednesday at 9 a.m. in the PSTA Board Room at 3201 Scherer Drive in St. Petersburg.

Throughout his life, Johnnie has repeatedly proven to be the “cream” that rises to the top of his professions and to his friends and colleagues it’s no surprise that after only six years at the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority he’s already earned the honor Driver of the Year.

While serving his country in the U.S. Army, First Sergeant Johnnie Dixon served with distinction in several fields including Military Police, on the Promotion Board and as a Family Support Sergeant where he and his staff cared for and comforted families of reservists who had been called up for active duty.  After retiring from the Army, Johnnie again distinguished himself by winning the TEAL (Teamwork, Excellence, Attitude and Leadership) and President’s Circle of Excellence awards while working at Tampa General Hospital’s Level 1 Trauma Center.

Given his background of exceptional service to his country and community, it’s easy to see why Johnnie is so successful behind the wheel for PSTA. “I started at PSTA because I saw a need in the community for transit.  That need will only grow as Baby Boomers age and fuel prices continue to rise,” he says. Complimenting his sense of duty and philanthropy is his dedication to treating riders with patience, courtesy and understanding. “It’s all part of being a professional and approaching my job with a ‘Safety First’ attitude to protect our riders,” says Johnnie. There is, perhaps, no greater testament to his success than the various passenger commendations found in his personnel file – one after another, thanking him for his kindness, patience and professionalism.

Those who ride his bus say that he conducts himself and his duties with military precision along with a welcoming, pleasant and helpful demeanor. Whether it’s helping a lost passenger get on the right bus and safely home or helping out a colleague, Johnnie is always willing to lend a hand – and it doesn’t stop there.  At home, Johnnie started (and leads) a Community Support Committee in his Riverview neighborhood where he and a small group of residents provide extra vigilance for neighborhood children to ensure their safety as well as providing care for senior citizens who need a helping hand from time-to-time.

First Sergeant Johnnie Dixon’s concern and dedication to his fellow man is truly uncommon. He is an outstanding reflection on both PSTA and Public Transit in general. We thank him for his service and congratulate him for winning PSTA’s 2012 Driver of the Year honor.

For more information about PSTA, visit www.PSTA.net or call the PSTA InfoLine at 727-540-1900.