In a world where the safety of children is paramount, the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure smooth and secure transportation for students often go unnoticed. One such professional is Kayla Miller, whose career in the student transportation industry spans two decades focused on safety and proficiency in school bus operations. Miller’s journey began in her father’s motorcoach facility, where she first developed her passion for transportation, leading her to obtain her commercial driver’s license in 2004. This initial step marked the beginning of a notable career dedicated to advancing safety standards and training programs within the industry.
Miller’s career took shape as she transitioned from a transit driver at The University of Iowa to the school bus industry in 2005. Her roles within the industry have been diverse and impactful. Notably, she held positions with Durham School Services and later with National Express, where she served as an area director of safety. Miller’s dedication to improving driver safety and training earned her recognition as one of the 10 Rising Stars by School Transportation News, underscoring her innovative approach and unwavering commitment.
Her role involves ensuring compliance with safety regulations from major organizations like OSHA and the U.S. Department of Transportation. This includes the oversight of training programs, accident prevention initiatives, and the professional development of new transportation staff. Miller’s projects are comprehensive, encompassing safety education, CPR certification, crisis intervention, and student management training. She has also played significant roles in community safety events and contributed to state education conferences, highlighting her influence beyond her immediate professional environment.
A standout achievement in Miller’s career was the training of over 100 school bus driver trainers in her area. This milestone underscores her influence and commitment to maintaining high safety standards within the industry. Michelle Simon, the vice president of safety compliance at National Express, praised Miller for her ability to connect with and support front-line trainers. Her proactive and passionate approach to driver safety has been a cornerstone of her career, earning the admiration and respect of her colleagues and superiors.
Miller’s ongoing work continues to positively impact the student transportation industry. She focuses on onboarding new staff and developing monthly safety training content, drawing inspiration from her deep-seated commitment to the safety of students. This commitment is further influenced by the legacy of the late John Elliot, Sr., whose values continue to guide her efforts.
Outside her professional life, Miller enjoys running, golfing, and attending sports events. She has expressed gratitude for her recognition as a Rising Star and looks forward to further contributions to the safety and efficiency of student transportation. Her dedication to her field has not only set high standards but has also inspired others within the industry to prioritize and uphold safety.
Overall, Kayla Miller’s career is a testament to the impact one individual can have in elevating the standards of the student transportation industry through consistent effort and an unwavering focus on safety. Her work remains a beacon of excellence, driving forward positive changes that ensure the well-being of countless students each day.
