February 2013: JJ Montoya

Each month, RTD encourages passengers to nominate a bus driver or light rail operator who goes above and beyond to make their experience memorable. This month’s winning nomination goes to BroncosRide bus driver, J. J. Montoya. BroncosRide direct bus service travels from the Federal Center to Sports Authority Field at Mile High, as well as many other locations throughout the metro area.

His nomination was submitted by Lee Nelson, who was impressed with J. J.’s friendly attitude and excellent customer service.

"We were on our way to the last Broncos game of the regular season, when we realized that we forgot our game tickets in the car after the bus had already left the station. When we got to Sports Authority Field, we talked to one of the supervisors, who put us on a bus back to the Federal Center. I was wondering how we were going to get back to the stadium since we had missed the last bus, but the driver said he would wait for me to get the tickets and take us back. How awesome! He also had eight stragglers get on the bus while he waited. The driver and supervisor went way above and beyond our expectations. They were very friendly, helpful, and polite. Incredible service! They saved our day. You hardly ever see this kind of service anymore. Keep it up RTD!!"

After receiving the commendation from Lee, we wanted to know more about J. J., and he graciously agreed to answer a few of our questions.

How long have you worked for RTD and have you always been a Bus Driver?

I’ve worked for RTD for 10 years. Most of that time as a bus driver, but I did spend a small amount of time as a light rail operator.

What were you in a previous life?

LOL, my wife thinks I was a Big Mouth Bass.

What do you like best about your job?

Passengers and my coworkers

If you could listen to music while working, what type?

80’s music

If you could deck out your train, what style?

I would deck it out like the Polar Express train in the movie. I would have a hot chocolate bar, Christmas music playing, and cover it with Christmas lights. Every passenger would ride free and enjoy free hot chocolate. I would wear a Santa hat and give out little RTD bus toys to all the kids that rode my bus. That's how I'd do a decked out bus!

If you could change your uniform color, what color or does brown/gray go with your eyes?

My eyes…no, but I like silver and black a lot! I’m a Raiders fan.

What type of service would you drive if given the choice and/or favorite service to drive or operate?

Regional and Express routes are some of my favorites. I do enjoy the mountain runs too.

What are your favorite hobbies or activities?

My favorite hobbies are spending time with my family, going fishing, hunting, and camping.