KDSN RADIO News
SWITA Driver Smelser Honored at Midwest Transit Conference
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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.
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.
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.
