Driving Excellence: Jack Millman Named King County Metro’s Operator of the Year

Every day, hundreds of thousands of riders step onto King County Metro buses and count on a smooth, safe and welcoming ride. For many lucky passengers, that ride has been in the capable hands of Jack Millman — a driver whose calm presence and consistent kindness have made commutes better and lives brighter. Now, Jack Millman, who has delivered exceptional service for more than two decades, has been named King County Metro’s Operator of the Year.

“Today, it is my absolute privilege to recognize Jack — someone who represents the very best of who we are and what we strive to be,” King County Metro General Manager Michelle Allison said during a ceremony honoring Millman on Oct. 28.

Millman was all smiles as he accepted his award. “I do this for you guys, and the general public, and I love what I do,” he told colleagues who attended the ceremony. “I am greatly honored to be a part of the King County Metro family.”

Since joining Metro in 1999, Millman has exemplified what it means to serve with both skill and heart. From expertly navigating Seattle’s busiest corridors to greeting each passenger with a smile, Millman leads with care — a quality that, earlier this year, helped save a life.

“A passenger, in a rush to catch another bus, tripped and fell near Jack’s bus and suffered a severe leg injury,” recalled Allison. “Without hesitation, Jack called for emergency help and immediately applied a tourniquet. That fast, decisive action likely saved the man’s life.”

First responders confirmed that if Millman hadn’t acted so quickly, the outcome could have been far worse.

A master driver — and a model teammate

Over the years, Millman has received more than 200 official commendations from riders — an astonishing number that speaks to his consistency and character.

“That’s 200 people who took time out of their day to say, ‘That driver made a difference.’ That’s extraordinary,” said King County Executive Shannon Braddock. “We’ve heard from so many riders who describe Jack as patient, cheerful and someone who turns a daily commute into a moment of connection.”

Riders have praised him for his friendliness, his professionalism and his ability to create a safe and welcoming space on every route:

“A great driver, very cheerful and on time. He made my trip so smooth and safe, and ensured all the riders got off safely in the dark,” wrote one passenger.

“Funny and engaged, safe and timely. Really appreciate the good attitude that is often lacking these days,” shared another.

Phil DeVault, Metro’s Division Director of Bus Operations, called the number of Millman’s commendations “unheard of…(he’s) a shining example of King County values. Period.”

Small moments, big impact

Millman is known not just for his sharp driving or quick thinking — but for the way he connects with people. One of his regular riders is a man with a mental disability. Millman, always observant and gracious, always invites him to the front of the bus for a friendly catch-up.

“These small, daily acts of kindness define Jack’s impact,” Allison said. “His ability to build community from behind the wheel makes him not just an excellent operator, but an essential part of Metro’s spirit.”

A career of excellence

As part of the Operator of the Year honor, Millman was presented with a commemorative plaque and a custom ring — symbols of appreciation for a career marked by dedication, skill and heart.

“Public transit is more than just moving people from point A to point B,” Braddock said. “It’s about connection, community and care. Jack, through your professionalism and humanity, you remind us what service truly looks like.”

What riders are saying:

• “Our driver was very helpful, polite, thoughtful, and safety-oriented. He made a difference at the end of my day with his great attitude.”

• “Super friendly — made my bus ride the best in a long time!”

• “He was very pleasant, drove safely, and even pointed out local restaurants and parks as we passed. I’ve never experienced service like this.”

Jack Millman shows us that how we move matters just as much as where we’re going. Congratulations to Jack on this well-deserved honor — and thank you for showing us every day that the road can be a place of care, connection and kindness.