James Buda of Buehler Companies in Denver, Colorado, was named Mayflower Transit’s 2026 Van Operator of the Year in the Household Goods West category. The award honors Buda’s exceptional performance in customer service and safety. He was recognized at the Company’s recent award ceremony in St. Louis.
Right after graduating high school, Buda entered the trucking industry, starting his career as a packer. Watching the van operators at work inspired him to pursue his commercial driver’s license (CDL), which he earned at just 21 years old. Nearly 30 years later, Buda continues to live by a simple motto: “How would I want to be moved if I were the customer?” When asked about receiving the award, he credited his team, saying, “I’m only as good as my crew — they account for 80% of the success on every job.”
“The Van Operator of the Year Award honors individuals who go above and beyond every single day.” UniGroup President and CEO Kevin A. Krakora said. “This year’s recipient exemplifies the reliability, leadership and work ethic that drive our company forward. On behalf of our entire organization, I extend my sincere congratulations and gratitude for a job exceptionally done.”
There are more than 1,300 van operator professionals in the Mayflower network, and Buda was one of three winners this year. The van operator of the year began in the late 1970s to recognize the men and women who sacrifice so much for a life on the road and who help other families through one of the most stressful times in their lives.
Click here to watch the full Van Operator of the Year video and discover more about Buda.
