Meet Metro Bus Operator Pete Mugg
By Lisa Sabyan
Pete Mugg is one of the most recognized Bus Operators at Metro Bus. After connecting our communities for more than 4 decades he is ready for the next chapter of his life, retirement.
Pete joined the Metro Bus team as a Bus Operator in 1977, where he has been honored with many accomplishments including the Minnesota Public Transit Association’s Minnesota Operator of the Year award in 2019.
Pete has left a lasting mark on Metro Bus as well as in the St. Cloud area. His intentions to be a good example for others and to lend a hand, when needed, is what helps make everywhere Pete goes a better place. Pete says he wants to be an example of someone who goes out their way to help people.
“I’ve been complimented on that,” Pete shared. “I had a (Operator) Trainer tell me, ‘Pete, I tell all the new trainees to watch you.’”
We sat down with Pete recently to talk about what has kept him at Metro Bus for 47 years and reflect on his legacy and the impact he’s had in our communities.
What made you stay at Metro Bus so long?
I feel like it’s my calling. I’m very blessed. I moved up the ladder rather quickly. Got good shifts, had good equipment and good management. I’ve always felt appreciated and comfortable. Of course, we’ve always had great benefits with family health insurance for 7 kids. It’s been 47 great years. It’s hard to leave.
What accomplishments are you most proud of?
Accepting Jesus as my savior and Taking 3rd place in the Minnesota State Bus Roadeo in 2022. I was so shocked that I got third, but mad at myself for missing one of the course exercises. Where would I have been had I not missed that exercise?
What do you look forward to at work?
I enjoy driving. I enjoy the people. I like working with my co-workers. There’s always something different every day. Some days are the same routine, but there’s always something different.
What is the Metro Bus team like?
Very caring, outgoing, very efficient, progressive. That’s what I appreciate about Metro Bus, we try stuff. We’re not just going to stay in the mode, we are innovative.
Tell us about a memorable moment you’ve had with a co-worker or customer?
A few winters ago, I found a little boy walking alone down the sidewalk of 4th Av S in the early morning during school bus pick-ups at nearby apartments. I was able to get the boy in the warm bus while a Street Supervisor identified his worried parent at the nearby apartments. The parent had just finished a call to the police to report their child missing. We were able to reunite them. I felt like I accomplished something.
Do you have any inspirations? What are they?
I am inspired just to help people.
What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
I enjoy sports. I enjoy being with my family and really don’t have a whole lot of interests yet. I’m trying to figure that out. I enjoy going to the theatre. I’m starting to enjoy the outdoors more, going for walks and stuff.
Do you have any hidden talents or skills?
Probably, my skill is to talk to people. I’m outgoing.
What is your favorite book?
“The Traveler’s Gift” by Andy Andrews.
What’s the most unusual job you’ve ever had?
Before I worked here, I drove bus for St. Ben’s and St. John’s for 2 years and during the summertime when I wasn’t driving I was digging graves.
What kind of impact do you want to have?
Try your best. Do your best. Respect people. Metro Bus has been part of our life. It is our life. I just want to be an example of someone that helps people and goes out of their way to help people.
