King County Metro Vehicle Maintenance celebrates ‘superhero’ as Employee of the Year

Chris Blandi is the Clark Kent of King County Metro’s Vehicle Maintenance: Quiet and unassuming, but a genuine Superman under his modest exterior, able to juggle multiple jobs keeping King County Metro’s bus fleet rolling while remaining cool and unruffled. His excellence as a mechanic was celebrated Monday when he was named Vehicle Maintenance Employee of the Year.

Blandi, selected by his fellow vehicle maintenance team members for the honor, was lauded at a celebration at Metro’s Central Base.

Whitney Abrams, Chief People Officer at King County, told the audience she was honored to announce this year’s winner.

“Everyone here knows that vehicle maintenance workers are essential to the smooth operation of any transit system,” Abrams said. “Their role goes far beyond simple repairs; they are the backbone of safe, reliable and efficient public transportation.

“That’s why I am so happy to be with you today, to celebrate the best of the best in Vehicle Maintenance!”

Metro General Manager Michelle Allison echoed that praise.

“It is uncommon for someone who has been in Vehicle Maintenance for just five short years to receive this prestigious award,” Allison said. “It’s absolutely a sign that Chris is one of our finest mechanics, and it’s recognition of his professional excellence.”

When he’s not at work, Blandi is both a Mariners’ fan and a devoted fisherman, even traveling to bass competitions to try his luck.

“Working at Metro changed my life,” Blandi said to the guests gathered to honor him. “I couldn’t do this without a great team behind me…It’s about putting out a quality project.

“The support system at Central Base is really something.”

Blandi’s colleagues say he’s a leader with a positive attitude and is highly capable at leading the shop and making good decisions, even under demanding circumstances.

Master mechanics like Blandi reduce the need for costly emergency repairs and extend the lifespan of coaches, said Chris Parrott, Division Director of Vehicle Maintenance.

“This not only helps reduce operating costs but also maximizes the value of the public investment in our services,” Parrott said. “And high-quality maintenance improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions. That means a more sustainable fleet for our communities.”

Drew Marcell, Vehicle Maintenance Superintendent, said Blandi is “our ideal employee. You can count on him to get things done. If he’s doing repairs, you know it’s quality.”