In a heartwarming ceremony held at Metro’s East Base, the prestigious title of Operator of the Year was given to Lisa Nault, a dedicated King County Metro bus operator. Lisa’s unwavering commitment to safety, reliability, and her active involvement in community organizations earned her the department’s highest honor, an accolade that resonates deeply with her peers.
Lisa Nault’s journey with King County Metro began in 1992 when she joined as a part-time operator, eventually transitioning to full-time status in 1997. Throughout her illustrious career, Nault has accrued numerous Safe Driver Awards and received numerous commendations from appreciative passengers. She has been an active member of ATU Local 587 for an impressive three decades.
“Lisa’s commitment to safety and reliable service day in and day out is unparalleled, and I am thrilled to recognize her as Metro’s Operator of the Year,” said King County Executive Dow Constantine. “Her excellence is a wonderful example of the public service provided by King County, placing our residents at the forefront of all that we do, and delivering a world-class mobility network.”
Lisa Nault’s excellence as a bus operator has shone through all facets of her work, garnering her admiration within the community.
“Our operators are the finest in the nation and no one embodies this more than Lisa Nault,” said Metro General Manager Michelle Allison. “Her excellence shines through all that she does. I am so proud she chose Metro for her career.”
Born in Seattle, Lisa Nault holds an associate of arts degree in business administration from Bellevue College. She actively participates in Seattle-area Native American, Alaskan native, and Filipino communities, making a positive impact on the regions she serves.
Kerrie Bouie, East Base Operations Chief, praised Nault’s leadership and commitment.
“Her kindness, leadership and commitment to her peers and the Metro community make her deserving of this honor,” said Kerrie Bouie, East Base Operations Chief. “We are all proud of this accomplishment she has achieved.”
In her leisure time, Lisa Nault finds solace in the outdoors, cooking, baking, attending pow-wows, and cherishing moments with her family. Her recognition as the November Operator of the Month for East Base in 2022 made her eligible for the prestigious title of 2022 Operator of the Year.
Phil DeVault, Interim Division Director of Bus Operations, highlighted the significance of the Operator of the Year award, emphasizing that it is the highest employee recognition bestowed upon Metro employees.
“The Operator of the Year award is our highest employee award,” said Phil DeVault, Interim Division Director of Bus Operations. “This honor is voted on by peers—other transit operators. Operators receiving this award have demonstrated the highest level of customer service, safety performance, and engagement in their work. These honorees are truly ambassadors for Metro and exemplify King County’s commitment to excellence in public service.”
Nault’s words of wisdom for fellow operators are simple yet profound: “Drive one block at a time.”
The praise from one of Nault’s passengers speaks volumes about her exceptional service, noting, “The driver was extremely professional and showed exceptional care while driving, making extra effort to avoid sudden changes in speed or direction.”
