Garland Powell Named Baltimore MTA’s Operator of the Year
Transdev is proud to celebrate Garland Powell, who was named Operator of the Year in 2025 by the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA). Selected from a pool of more than 1,000 operators systemwide and over 300 operators at his location, Powell stands out for exceptional professionalism, unwavering reliability, and his consistent commitment to safe, courteous service.
A Record of Excellence
Powell has been with Transdev since 2014 and brings a disciplined, mission-first mindset from his military background. His record spoke for itself:
- 0 DriveCam offenses
- 0 Safety Accidents
- 0 Missed Days of Work
Riders regularly share compliments about his pleasant demeanor and the care he shows to every passenger. Internally, he’s known as dependable, humble, and “Care, Share, Dare, Deliver to his core” – living Transdev’s values in every shift.
Recognized by the Client – and by Peers
Originally nominated as Operator of the Quarter, Powell’s performance stood out so significantly that when the MTA invited all three providers on the contract to submit their Operator of the Year candidate, he was selected based on his consistency and customer-first approach.
”To be selected as Operator of the Year out of more than 1,000 operators in the system is a tremendous honor. Mr. Powell is humble, dependable, and admired by his colleagues and riders. He doesn’t seek recognition – he simply shows up and does the job the right way, every day.
Rebecca ProctorTransdev General Manager, Maryland MTA Mobility
A Culture of Support and Recognition
Baltimore’s operating leaders have worked hard to identify and celebrate excellence. Through Employee Appreciation Week, internal celebrations, and regular recognition for operators who receive positive rider feedback, the teams ensure great work doesn’t go unnoticed. Operators also enjoy personal letters from the CEO when they are recognized as a Mobility Change Maker – a gesture that underscores the company’s gratitude and commitment.
Active, visible leadership helps sustain that culture. General Managers are routinely present on the lot and in the office; dispatch access is open and transparent; and managers engage operators in practical, supportive conversations about improvement and growth.
“Being there for the operators is key,” Proctor noted. “When they see dependability and reliability in their leaders, it fosters integrity and accountability across the team.”
Beyond Baltimore: A Team Player
In addition to his excellence behind the wheel, Powell has contributed to location startups, including support for Bridgeport, Connecticut, during a driver shortage and assistance at another Transdev location. His willingness to step in where needed, paired with his respectful approach and operational discipline, makes him a trusted colleague wherever he goes.
Humble and Service-Minded
Despite the accolades, Powell remains grounded.
“I don’t need any of this because I know you appreciate me,” he has said to leaders.
His humility, combined with genuine care for riders and coworkers, is central to why he earned the Operator of the Year distinction.
“This recognition makes me incredibly proud,” Proctor added. “Having someone like Garland on our team sets the tone for excellence and serves as a role model for what safe, reliable, customer-centered transit looks like.”
Congratulations, Garland!
Transdev congratulates Garland Powell on this outstanding achievement and thanks the Baltimore MTA for recognizing the dedication of operators who keep the city moving safely every day. With more than 14 years of service to our customers, Powell continues to exemplify what it means to lead by example.
