After a career as a mechanic, Jim begins a new journey as a school bus driver, showing resilience and adaptability in the face of change.
— Jim, thanks for joining us today. You’ve made a big career transition recently. Can you tell us about that?
— Sure, I used to work as a mechanic for years. It was something I loved, but over time, my back just couldn’t take it anymore. I had to face the reality that I needed a change.
— That must have been a tough decision. How did you decide on becoming a school bus driver?
— It wasn’t easy, but I’ve always enjoyed driving. When I realized I couldn’t stay in the garage, I thought, why not get out on the road? I went for my CDL, and here I am now, driving a school bus.
— What was it like getting your CDL and starting something so different?
— It was a challenge, no doubt. Studying for the CDL test at my age wasn’t the easiest thing, but it felt good to learn something new. The training process was thorough, and once I got behind the wheel, I felt right at home.
— How has the transition been from working on vehicles to driving them?
— It’s a different kind of satisfaction. As a mechanic, I took pride in fixing things. Now, I take pride in helping kids get to school safely. It’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly, and I like knowing I’m making a difference in their day.
— What’s your favorite part of the new job?
— The kids, for sure. They’ve got so much energy and excitement. Seeing them smile when they hop on the bus makes the early mornings worth it.
— Do you miss being a mechanic?
— I do sometimes. There’s a kind of joy in taking something broken and making it work again. But I’m grateful for where I am now. Life’s about adapting and finding new ways to move forward.
— Any advice for others who might be considering a career change later in life?
— Don’t be afraid to try something new. It’s never too late to learn or start over. Take it one step at a time, and you might just find a path you didn’t expect but really enjoy.
