Underwood steers transportation at BKW
BERNE The transportation department at Berne-Knox-Westerlo has a new face. Russ Underwood was recently hired as supervisor of transportation.
He replaces long-time director Alan Zuk, who retired this summer.
Underwood described the workings in the transportation department as "a team effort" and said everyone plays an integral part.
"It takes everybody to make sure everything goes smoothly," said Underwood.
Before he was hired at BKW, Underwood worked for Guilderland Central School for almost nine years as a mechanic and lead mechanic on the second shift. He also drove a school bus.
Underwood said the supervisor position at BKW appealed to him because it advances his career.
"It was a chance to work with a team of drivers, mechanics, and other school staff to safely transport students to and from school in a safe and professional manner," he said.
Four bus mechanics at BKW maintain a fleet of 54 buses, including Chevrolet Suburbans. Dave Clark, who is also the chief of the Berne Volunteer Fire Company, is the transportation departments head mechanic.
Mechanics, Underwood said, have to meet a high criteria from the states Department of Transportation.
When school starts on Sept. 6, BKW will be transporting approximately 1,120 students to 42 different locations on 53 runs throughout the day, Underwood said.
"I look forward to a new school year and new challenges along the way," he said.