Operating our nationally recognized transit system relies on thousands of people. King County Metro is proud to announce one standout employee who ensures you get where you need to go comfortably and safely.
At a recent surprise ceremony at Metro’s North Base in Shoreline, Metro recognized Bart Hedlund as our 2021 Vehicle Maintenance Employee of the Year!
Joined by his wife, Claudia, Bart was praised by King County Executive Dow Constantine, Metro General Manager Terry White, Deputy GM Michelle Allison, and North Base Superintendent Rick Mudge, each honoring his quiet leadership over the last year.
Bart’s nomination by his coworkers at North Base is clear recognition by his peers, who together are responsible for maintaining our vehicles, trains, and vessels every day. To earn the honor, the criteria for being named includes cooperation, initiative, attitude, knowledge, enthusiasm, and interpersonal skills.
Vehicle Maintenance employees are recognized periodically at Metro’s seven transit bases and our Component Supply Center throughout the year, and in turn they choose the “Best of the Best” to be the Vehicle Maintenance Employee of the Year.
Bart’s fellow employees said during the event his positive attitude and work ethic deserved recognition. In a unique year, Bart was a leader, doing what was needed to meet the goals of the body shop. Rick Mudge, Vehicle Maintenance Superintendent at Metro’s North Base, said Hedlund is a prime example of a can-do attitude and work ethic. “No matter what task Bart is given, he is ready and willing to give it his all to make sure it is successfully accomplished.”
Bart started with Metro in 2005 as a Sheet Metal Worker. In 2007, he was promoted to Lead Sheet Metal Worker, and has been providing excellent service at King County Metro in this position. Bart currently works at North Base, but also spent many years working at Metro’s Component Supply Center in Tukwila.
Vehicle Maintenance plays a vital role in our Mobility system. Day to day, Bart works in the Body Shop repairing accident damage and other body repairs.
In addition, the Body Shop is also responsible for modifications to coaches, which meant Bart had a role in keeping riders and operators safe over the last year. During the pandemic, Vehicle Maintenance crews were responsible for designing, fabricating, and installing the plexiglass safety partitions and adding mask dispensers to every bus in our fleet.
Bart received a plaque recognizing his achievement and a monogrammed jacket designating him as the Employee of the Year. He also will receive public recognition of the award when his image is placed on bus cards both inside and outside on Metro coaches.
Congratulations Bart!
