Summary:
Jack Millman, a King County Metro bus driver, has been named Metro's Operator of the Year for his exceptional service, calm demeanor, and everyday acts of kindness. Millman has been with the agency since 1999 and has built a reputation for delivering safe, smooth rides and forging connections with riders from all walks of life. He is known for small, consistent gestures that brighten passengers' days, and has earned over 200 official commendations from riders. Millman was also praised for his swift action in saving a passenger's life earlier this year.
Jack Millman, a King County Metro bus driver known for his exceptional service, calm demeanor, and everyday acts of kindness, has been named Metro’s Operator of the Year. Since joining the agency in 1999, Millman has quietly built a reputation for delivering safe, smooth rides and forging connections with riders from all walks of life. From offering a smile to applying a lifesaving tourniquet, his work behind the wheel has gone far beyond transportation.
The award was presented at a ceremony on Oct. 28, where King County Metro General Manager Michelle Allison praised Millman for exemplifying the agency’s highest values.
“Today, it is my absolute privilege to recognize Jack — someone who represents the very best of who we are and what we strive to be,” Allison said.
Millman accepted the honor with humility. “I do this for you guys, and the general public, and I love what I do,” he told fellow employees. “I am greatly honored to be a part of the King County Metro family.”
Earlier this year, Millman took swift action when a passenger tripped and suffered a severe leg injury while rushing to catch another bus. Without hesitation, he called for help and applied a tourniquet, a move that first responders later confirmed likely saved the man’s life.
“That fast, decisive action likely saved the man’s life,” said Allison.
Beyond that moment, Millman has become known for small, consistent gestures that brighten passengers’ days. One regular rider, a man with a mental disability, is always welcomed with a warm smile and invited to sit at the front for a brief chat.
“These small, daily acts of kindness define Jack’s impact,” said Allison. “His ability to build community from behind the wheel makes him not just an excellent operator, but an essential part of Metro’s spirit.”
Millman’s service has earned him more than 200 official commendations from riders — a figure that Metro leaders describe as extraordinary.
“That’s 200 people who took time out of their day to say, ‘That driver made a difference,’” said King County Executive Shannon Braddock. “We’ve heard from so many riders who describe Jack as patient, cheerful and someone who turns a daily commute into a moment of connection.”
Riders consistently praise his professionalism and positive attitude: • “Our driver was very helpful, polite, thoughtful, and safety-oriented. He made a difference at the end of my day with his great attitude.” • “Funny and engaged, safe and timely. Really appreciate the good attitude that is often lacking these days.” • “He was very pleasant, drove safely, and even pointed out local restaurants and parks as we passed.”
Phil DeVault, Metro’s Division Director of Bus Operations, called the number of commendations “unheard of” and told Millman, “You’re a shining example of King County values. Period.”
As part of the Operator of the Year recognition, Millman received a commemorative plaque and a custom ring — symbols of appreciation for a career built on dedication, professionalism and heart.
“Public transit is more than just moving people from point A to point B,” said Braddock. “It’s about connection, community and care. Jack, through your professionalism and humanity, you remind us what service truly looks like.”