MCBOA Awards Program

Troy Voigt Memorial Leadership Award
Rob Wicklund
Bemidji Bus Line
Bemidji, MN

Pictured left to right: members of the Voigt’s Bus team, including Courtney Ely, Compliance Officer and daughter of Troy Voigt, and Chad Ely, Voigt’s Bus Operations and MCBOA President, accepting the Troy Voigt Award on behalf of winner Rob Wicklund of Bemidji Bus Line.

 Rob was awarded for exemplifying the spirit of mentorship, collaboration, and selfless leadership by consistently supporting fellow operators, strengthening MCBOA participation, and putting safety and service ahead of competition.

Operator of the Year
Steve Woelfel
Jefferson Lines
Minneapolis, MN

Pictured left to right: Kevin Pursey, Director of Sales, Jefferson Lines; Rick Thielen, Vice President, Thielen Coaches and the 2024 recipient of this award; Thom Thoemke, Director of Safety, Jefferson Lines; and MCBOA President Chad Ely, Operations, Voigt’s Bus.

Kevin and Thom accepted the award on behalf of President & CEO Steve Woelfel. Jefferson Lines was recognized for industry-leading safety, innovation, and customer service, combining forward-thinking technology with a people-first culture that continues to raise the standard for motorcoach operations across the Midwest.

Supplier of the Year
Chris Riddell
The Bus Network
New Britain, CT

Pictured left to right: Mark Polzin, President, Budget Truck & Auto and the 2024 recipient of this award; award winner Chris Riddell, CEO, The Bus Network; and MCBOA President Chad Ely, Operations, Voigt’s Bus.

Chris and The Bus Network were honored for elevating the motorcoach industry through collaboration, education, and advocacy, creating meaningful connections and a trusted platform that strengthens relationships between operators and suppliers nationwide.