Getachew Jiru - July 2025 Operator of the Month

July 2025: Getachew Jiru

July’s Operator of the Month is Getachew Jiru from East Metro. Jiru was selected for going out of his way to provide exceptional customer service. On top of being friendly and welcoming to all his customers, he went out of his way to help a customer identify which bus they needed to board by showing them how to use Trip Planner and NextRide so they can get on the correct route. Jiru was also chosen for his dedication to safety, making sure to be easy on the brakes and accelerator, stopping at all railroad crossings and waiting until his customers are safely seated or standing holding the handrails before moving away from a stop.

Q&A

How long have you driven for RTD? Have you always been a bus driver?

I have worked at RTD since 2018. Beforehand, I worked many jobs, including at a post office, gas station, driving semi-trucks and buses for a contractor agency.

What do you like best about your job?

I like to drive and take pride in making the experience pleasant for our customers.

If you could listen to music while working, what type would you choose?

Gospel or Christian.

If you could deck out your bus, what style would it be?

I’d love to decorate it with nature scenes, such as trees, gardens and sunsets.

If you could change your uniform color, what color would you prefer?

I’d like to see a burgundy or other blue color option for our uniforms.

What type of service would you drive if given the choice?

I definitely prefer local routes, especially the 133.