FOX VALLEY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – The Kobussen Bus company based out of Kaukauna says it’s having a hard time finding drivers.
The company believes a strong economy is causing a shortage all over the country, and it’s trying something new to get more people interested.
Feel the wheel, seal the deal. Kobussen Buses is hoping a little test drive will attract new drivers.
“It wasn’t as intimidating as it looks!” bus driver applicant Stephanie Ott tells FOX 11.
The public was allowed to hop into a school bus Wednesday, and take it around Kobussen Buses’ premises.
“We’re not gonna go out into traffic, or anything, but we’ll stay on the grounds here and see if they like it, if they fit in the bus, take away any fears that they may, or may not have just to try to make them feel a little more comfortable,” said safety manager for Kobussen Buses at the Neenah terminal Rodger Cutts.
Terry Deedmon, safety director at the Oshkosh terminal, tells FOX 11 she prefers driving a bus than her own car.
“People think, ‘Oh my God! A large vehicle,’ but it isn’t that bad, and it’s something that you get used to.”
The transportation company held its 3rd annual hiring event at all 21 of its locations on Wednesday.
And one of the best parts about the hiring event was that you didn’t even need your CDL.
Kobussen says the fear of driving a large vehicle keeps many potential applicants away.
“There are many different reasons that could scare a person, or make them think it may or may not be for them,” said Cutts.
Teacher turned stay-at-home mom Stephanie Otto says the opportunity seemed too good to be true.
“I said, ‘Why not?’ I know kids, I understand how schools work, I’m a safe driver, let’s explore the opportunity to drive a school bus!’”
And Kobussen says the perks don’t end there, at least not for Otto.
“It’s a great way to make money, and not have to pay for daycare!” Cutts said.
If you want to make a career out of bus driving, you will eventually need a CDL.
Kobussen Buses and many other companies now offer paid training to help.
