King County Metro celebrates Streetcar Employee of the Year Mike Nicolay

A man described as an integral part of the Streetcar team has been named as the King County Metro’s Streetcar Employee of the Year.

Mike Nicolay was selected for the honor by his colleagues, who say he is an invaluable resource to all whom he meets during his workday.

“Mike Nicolay is the heart and soul of Streetcar for his behind-the-scenes administrative support of all employees across Streetcar and plays a critical role in keeping Streetcar running smoothly,” said Jeremy Valenta, Streetcar Director. “Mike is known by his co-workers to be genuinely kind, helpful, hard-working, responsible and reliable.

“I am so glad to see him recognized by his peers for this honor.”

Nicolay is one of the original founding members of the Streetcar team, serving since 2008. He was celebrated with the award at the First Hill Streetcar base in a recent ceremony attended by team members and Metro senior leaders.

The Streetcar offers a distinctive way to explore Seattle. The Streetcar travels on fixed tracks and provides a scenic, smooth ride through iconic neighborhoods that include Capitol Hill, South Lake Union and the International District.

As our region continues to expand, the public demand for multiple forms of reliable, efficient and sustainable public transportation also grows. Such a system would not be possible without the workers who keep it moving, transit colleagues said.

Ernest Kandilige, Metro Assistant General Manager, saluted Nicolay’s dedication to the Streetcar.

“You are an unsung hero of one of the region’s most unique forms of transportation,” Kandilige said. “You help ensure some of Seattle’s most vital neighborhoods are connected and move us all forward with dedication and care.”