SWART crew takes top honors at transport conference

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The South West Area Regional Transit (SWART) Vehicle Maintenance Team recently earned top honors at the 2025 Texas Transit Association (TTA) Conference in McAllen.
SWART Vehicle Maintenance Technicians Armando Martinez and Michael Sanchez took first place in the Texas State Paratransit Vehicle Maintenance Roadeo. They competed against top transit systems, including VIA San Antonio Paratransit, Valley Metro Paratransit, and South Padre The Wave in a showcase of knowledge and technical proficiency.
The pair, under the guidance of Vehicle Maintenance Supervisor and coach Jesus Rodriguez, won the event by more than 50 points across several key evaluation areas. They included a written exam, vehicle pre-trip inspection, HVAC system diagnostics, and engine repair.

“The recognition highlights the outstanding performance of SWART’s Vehicle Maintenance Technicians, who demonstrated exceptional skill and expertise in one of the transit industry’s most prestigious competitions,” SWART General Manager, Sarah Hidalgo-Cook said. “Martinez and Sanchez have both been with SWART for only six months, making their victory even more impressive and a testament to their rapid expertise and dedication.”

Armando Martinez and Michael Sanchez with TTA Executive Director Allen Hunter
and Metro McAllen General Manager Mario Delgado

Jesus Rodriguez with TTA Executive Director Allen Hunter, TTA President Serena Stevenson (Waco Transit), and Metro McAllen General Manager Mario Delgado.

Their efforts were formally recognized at the TTA Awards Banquet on March 8 at the McAllen Performing Arts Center. The banquet also honored top winners from various transit categories, including Large System Vehicle Maintenance, 40-Foot Vehicle Operators, 35-Foot Vehicle Operators, and Paratransit Vehicle Operators.
Rodriguez was also honored with the 2025 Texas State Rising Star Award on March 10.
“This prestigious recognition underscores his exceptional leadership, dedication, and technical prowess in transit maintenance,” Hidalgo-Cook said. “Starting as a vehicle washer five years ago, Jesus’s commitment to excellence propelled him through the ranks—from Vehicle Maintenance Technician to his current role as Vehicle Maintenance Supervisor.
“These remarkable achievements speak to SWART’s unwavering commitment to excellence in vehicle maintenance and our broader transit operations. We are incredibly proud of Armando, Michael, and Jesus, and excited about the future of our Vehicle Maintenance Department. We are committed to nurturing the next generation of skilled professionals who will help drive the continued success of SWART and the Texas transit industry at large.”