As evidenced by the formation of a union last semester, it would appear that some employees of the Huskie Bus Line would like to see some changes made at their jobs.

Some drivers feel that one of the areas that could use some improvement is the pay rate.

“I absolutely feel we’re underpaid,” said Kellee Evans, a Huskie Bus driver and a future NIU transfer student. “[Looking] at these surrounding suburbs and cities, we are the lowest paid bus operators. We all work hard, and considering that a lot [of] us go to school and work, a lot of us depend solely on this job.”

John Roach, operations manager for the Huskie Line, feels the economy can be blamed for lower wages at any business but also feels the pay is good considering the affects of the economy.

“From what I’ve heard from other applicants, it’s a pretty [well]-paying salary,” Roach said. “I’d like to see them [make more money].”

Evans also said the equipment could use maintenance or should be upgraded.

“I think there’s room for improvement,” Evans said. “For the most part, they are drivable, but that doesn’t mean they are at their best potential.”

Another driver, Lorelei Bell said, while the buses are drivable, some things on the buses may not be fully functional. She said she feels management does its best to repair any malfunctioning equipment.

“Certain things about them don’t work,” Bell said, “A few [managers] really do try. If there’s a bus that’s not working, they try to get you another bus.”

Al Davis, general manager for the Huskie Bus Line , said the company works hard to keep the buses up to code.

“Safety is seriously our primary concern, and we do everything we can possibly do to ensure safety,” Davis said. “There are federal, state and company standards that they have to adhere to. We would not put defective buses out there on the street.”

Buses are monitored through company audits and maintenance programs.

Roach said some of the more trivial equipment may not get attended to, but they do all they can in order to ensure the functionality of the equipment.

“We have two hands-on mechanics to take care of the 24 buses,” Roach said. “They work hard to do the best they can. The mechanics shop is also considered one of the best of the company.”

Evans said while there’s room for improvement, overall, she is satisfied with her work.

“I’m happy with my job and I probably won’t be going anywhere else soon,” Evans said.