At Avail, we believe meaningful collaboration and engagement unlocks outstanding results in public transportation, and our first-ever Engage Awards ceremony was a thrilling testament to that vision.

From pioneering innovation to longstanding partnerships, these awards honor agencies that set the standard in community engagement, thought leadership, and adoption of Avail’s solutions. Whether you attended or missed it, here’s a deep dive into who stood out this year… and what excellence in action looks like.

2025 Engage Award Recipients

Transit Vanguard

Grand Rapids, MI – The Rapid
Setting the standard for excellence.
The Rapid continues to inspire peers across the industry through its commitment to delivering impactful service and leading the way in transit innovation.

Pioneer Rider

Salem, OR – Cherriots
For shaping the future through beta engagement.
Cherriots stood out as a vital voice in shaping new solutions, offering critical feedback and championing the evolution of Avail tools.

Lifetime Rider

Bakersfield, CA – Golden Empire Transit (GET)
Celebrating enduring partnership.
GET’s long-term dedication to Avail’s mission and consistent community impact make them a cornerstone of our success story.

All-Access Pass

Lexington, KY – Lextran
For full-on engagement.
Lextran fully embraces the myAvail platform—from deep dives into single solutions to broad adoption across suites—while actively participating in trainings and learning opportunities.

Community Connector

West Covina, CA – Foothill Transit
Championing collaboration.
Foothill Transit continues to lead the way in peer learning and community support, helping others grow alongside them.

Avail Advocate

Modesto, CA – StanRTA
Inspiring others to join the journey.
StanRTA promotes the power of Avail’s tools and encourages peers to explore and adopt solutions that transform operations.

Milestone Marker 

Omaha, NE – Metro
For measurable progress.
Metro has demonstrated tangible improvements in key solution areas, proving that dedication leads to lasting impact.

Engage MVP

Kalamazoo, MI – Metro Transit (KMETRO)
For standout participation.
KMETRO brought unmatched energy to the Engage conference, participating actively in sessions, discussions, and activities.

Innovation Junction

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT)
For breakthrough achievement.
PennDOT’s statewide FRITS project is setting new standards and inspiring agencies across the nation.

First to Board 

Charleroi, PA: MMVTA

Always first in line to engage.
From events to new initiatives, Valley Transit shows up early and often—demonstrating what it means to be all in.

What’s Next?

This year’s award winners represent the best of what happens when technology, teamwork, and transit passion align. We’re honored to work alongside each of them, and we’re excited to see who rises to the top at next Engage Awards.

Think your agency has what it takes? Start thinking now about how you’re making a difference, and how you might be on the stage next.