After Dale Patrin switched from hotel housekeeping for a better-paying job driving a Metro Transit bus, he still thought about applying for a job elsewhere because he had a couple of college degrees. That was until Metro Transit showed him how much he was appreciated. 

"There was one event that helped me fall in love with Metro Transit," Patrin said. "I was out driving on a route and a street supervisor showed up with another driver. He told me my son had fallen out of a tree and broke his wrist and said Metro Transit wanted me to be with my family. I've never forgotten that."

Dale went on to have a 39-year career with Metro Transit, retiring in March 2025. 

Dale started as a part-time operator before going full time, became a relief instructor in early 2000 and applied in 2017 for garage coordinator, a position he held until retirement. 

His retirement plans included driving for a coach bus for a private company so he could travel around the country. He also planned to spend more time with his seven grandchildren.