Coast RTA proudly announces that its Maintenance Team placed 14th out of 49 teams nationwide at the 2026 American Public Transportation Association (APTA) International Bus Roadeo, held May 15–19 in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Competing against some of the nation’s largest transit agencies and bus authorities, Coast RTA’s team demonstrated exceptional technical expertise, teamwork, and dedication to excellence in public transportation maintenance.
“This achievement speaks volumes about the talent and commitment of our maintenance professionals,” said Brian Piascik, CEO and General Manager of Coast RTA. “To rank among the top teams in the country — and ahead of several much larger transit systems — is an incredible accomplishment and a reflection of the pride our employees bring to their work every day.”
The International Bus Roadeo is one of public transportation’s most distinctive and respected events, designed to test the real-world skills of bus operators and maintenance professionals through hands-on competition. Held in conjunction with APTA’s Mobility Conference, the Roadeo combines competitive challenge with valuable training opportunities and peer collaboration.
The event brings together transit professionals from across North America to exchange knowledge, strengthen industry connections, and celebrate the operators and maintenance teams who serve as the backbone of public transportation systems.
Throughout the week, participants engaged directly with peers from transit agencies nationwide while taking part in technical competitions that showcase precision, safety, diagnostic ability, and mechanical expertise under pressure.
Coast RTA’s strong finish highlights the organization’s continued investment in safety, reliability, and professional excellence for the communities it serves throughout Horry and Georgetown counties.
From left to right: Rob Edgar, Deputy Maintenance Manager; Bradley Horn, Technician; Jason O’ Brien, Technician.
