Meet the Team: Tim Mates

Tim Mates is committed to keeping public transportation clean, safe, and reliable for the community. His journey to becoming SolTrans’ Maintenance Manager wasn’t typical—it began with a love for fixing engines and grew into a career built on curiosity and hard work.

He started out working on cars for brands like VW, Audi, and Porsche. “I’ve always loved working on engines,” Tim says. “I didn’t grow up in a family of mechanics. Fixing my own car is what sparked my interest.”

Looking for a new challenge, Tim moved into transit maintenance at MV Transportation, where he found purpose in heavy-duty work. “I realized that transit was where I belonged,” he explains.

He joined SolTrans during the NEXT operation era. Recognizing his dedication, his manager promoted him into a leadership role—an opportunity that changed the course of his career. Today, under Transdev’s management, Tim oversees a team of technicians and utility workers, making sure SolTrans buses are ready to serve riders every day.

The fleet he manages covers everything from local routes in Vallejo and Benicia to SolanoExpress services across Solano County. “What I enjoy most is knowing people rely on these buses to get where they need to go,” Tim says. “If a bus isn’t running right or isn’t clean, I take that personally.”

Tim is also proud to support SolTrans’ push for cleaner transit, with electric and CNG buses leading the way. It’s a mission that matters to him both on the job and at home.

Outside of work, Tim enjoys time with his family, cooking, and camping. Living just a few miles from the maintenance shop, he often rides the same buses he helps maintain. For Tim, public transportation isn’t just a job—it’s part of his everyday life.

‍