Kurt Johnson, 37, is still early in his bus and motorcoach career, but his work in the shop has already earned industry-wide recognition.
A technician with Lorenz Bus Service in Blaine, Minnesota, Johnson recently received the UMA Rising Star Award after competing in the UMA Maintenance Competition at the 2026 UMA Motorcoach EXPO on Feb. 13.
Sponsored by Stertil-Koni, the honor recognizes technicians with two or fewer years of industry experience.
The award came with another distinction. Johnson became the first recipient of the Ring of Honor scholarship from the United Motorcoach Association, a new initiative created by veteran technicians to support education, training, and career advancement among emerging professionals.
“I’m grateful for the help and instruction I’ve received from the other mechanics and managers in our shop, as well as Lorenz Bus Service owners Ben and Mike Canine for having the confidence in me to allow me to go and participate in the UMA Maintenance Interchange and Maintenance competition,” Johnson said.
Mechanical work has long been part of Johnson’s life. Inspired by his father, an aircraft mechanic, he began working on agricultural equipment before moving into over-the-road trucking and eventually transitioning to bus maintenance. Today, he focuses on keeping vehicles operating safely and reliably — work he says carries real responsibility, especially when passengers depend on the equipment every day.
Bus & Motorcoach News caught up with Johnson to talk about his career path, favorite repairs, shop challenges, and advice for technicians entering the industry.
What repair job gives you the most satisfaction when completed?
Electrical work is probably the most satisfying. It can be complicated to find the problem, but once you figure it out, it feels really good.
Do you have a least favorite repair?
Electrical problems can also be the toughest because they can get really complicated and take time to track down.
What feature do you appreciate most when working on a bus?
I like having easy access to the top of the engine. It makes repairs a lot easier.
What makes you proud of the work you do?
Knowing we’re helping keep vehicles safe — especially when they’re transporting kids. We’re keeping them on the road, and that matters.
How much time do you spend on preventive maintenance?
A good portion of the job is preventive maintenance. Catching issues early helps avoid breakdowns later.
What are some challenges of the job?
Diagnosing problems that aren’t obvious right away can be challenging. Every situation is different.
What advice would you give someone new to the industry?
Listen to the old-timers. They’ve been doing this a long time, and you can learn a lot from their experience.
What has been a highlight of your career so far?
I really enjoy fabrication work. I’ve rebuilt a few bodies and frames, and that’s been a big highlight for me.
How did you choose this career?
My dad was a mechanic who worked on airplanes, so I grew up around mechanical work.
How did you get started in the bus industry?
I started on agricultural equipment, moved into over-the-road trucking, and eventually ended up working on buses after a friend recruited me.
Photos by Jilly Kelly/Terrapin Blue
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