For Immediate Release
March 19, 2025
Dozens of transit operators and maintenance teams from across Virginia competed in the annual statewide Bus and Maintenance Roadeo at Fairfax County’s West Ox Bus Garage in Fairfax. The prestigious competition tests the skills of bus operators and maintenance professionals from jurisdictions throughout the Commonwealth. Winners of the maintenance and operation events are invited to compete at the international competition to be held this April in Austin, Texas.
“This event is like the Olympics for our transit professionals,” said Fleet and Facilities Section Chief Tashi Sharngoe, of the Transit Services Division for the Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT). “Not only does it celebrate the standards of excellence for which we strive in our industry, but it also provides a great opportunity for continued learning and networking with fellow professionals throughout the industry.”
Participants competed in several timed events testing their problem-solving and technical skills in key areas. Maintenance technicians took a knowledge exam and then tested their expertise in identifying and diagnosing a range of mechanical issues across vehicle systems including braking, engine, door operation, HVAC, vehicle computer systems and general vehicle inspection. Operators competed in a timed obstacle course designed to test their driving skills, including serpentine maneuvers, difficult turns, reversing, braking, vehicle inspection, simulated bus stops and navigating a diminishing clearance scenario.
Fairfax Connector continued its outstanding performance in the annual competition, winning the overall combined maintenance and operator score and bringing home the coveted Virginia State Bus and Maintenance Roadeo traveling trophy. Outstanding performances included a first-place finish for the maintenance team of Joshua Zaragoza, Jerry Salgado and Martin Lopez; and a second-place finish on the obstacle course by operator Ramarolahy Rinasoa.
“Our Fairfax Connector professionals pride themselves in being the best in the business, not just in competitive events like this but every day of the week,” said FCDOT Transit Services Division Chief Dwayne Pelfrey. “We take seriously the trust and responsibility that is placed in us to provide safe, reliable and courteous transit services, and work to exceed expectations for the thousands of riders we serve daily.”
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