KANSAS CITY- Southwest Iowa Transit Agency (SWITA) Driver Max Smelser was recognized as an Operator Champion during the 2025 Midwest Transit Conference in Kansas City. Officials with Atlantic, Iowa-based SWITA say Smelser has been a stalwart of the SWITA operator team for over 16 years. He is the Lead Driver for Pottawattamie County and is integral in keeping the Council Bluffs bus barn facility running smoothly.

Photo Caption: (Pictured L-R: Mark Lander, SWITA Transit Director; Max Smelser, SWITA Driver; Autumn Smelser, Max’s Wife; Kristen Templeton, SWITA Transit Coordinator.

The Midwest Transit Conference brings together transit professionals from across the states of Iowa, Missouri, and Nebraska every two years for training, networking, and recognition. The Operator Champion Awards are crafted to recognize operators across the Midwest region that provide exceptional service to their riders and agencies. The awards were handed out during the Breakfast of Transit Champions on Friday, September 5, 2025, at the Kansas City Downtown Marriott.

SWITA Transportation Director Mark Lander said, “Max is a true one-of-a-kind driver and team member. He does so much to keep operations running smoothly from the Council Bluffs facility and is always willing to help other drivers. We are very fortunate to have Max on the team, and he is very deserving of this recognition.”

Mike Ames, SWITA Driver of the Year, was also recognized during a slideshow at the event for his contributions this past year along with other top drivers from the region.

*******

SWITA transportation is accessible to everyone in the eight-county region, including the disabled and elderly. SWITA offers several transportation options including work routes, medical trips, student transportation, taxi service in six communities, and special trips. SWITA vehicles are equipped with wheelchair accessibility and one personal attendant rides free.

SWIPCO is an equal opportunity employer, provider, and lender.