Aaron Moss found his way into the motorcoach industry through a mix of hands-on curiosity and unexpected connections.
Long before working on buses, Moss enjoyed taking things apart and putting them back together. That interest started early — he even rebuilt an engine in his backyard before officially entering the automotive field. By age 24, he had turned that passion into a career, working as a lead technician at a Goodyear shop in Alabama.
A chance connection led him to his current role. Moss and another technician happened to share the same chiropractor, who introduced them. That relationship opened the door to an opportunity at Thrasher Trailways, where Moss found something that he hadn’t experienced in larger corporate environments.
“It’s a much healthier atmosphere than a corporate shop,” Moss said. “Before this, I felt like just a number on a page. Here, it’s a tight-knit group.”
At just 26, Moss is still early in his career, but his passion for hands-on work and pride in maintaining safe, dependable vehicles reflect the mindset shared by many technicians who keep motorcoaches moving every day.
Moss is approaching two years working in motorcoach maintenance, caring for a fleet of 18 vehicles.
Bus & Motorcoach News caught up with Moss to talk about his career path, daily challenges, and what keeps him motivated in the industry.
What repair or job gives you the most satisfaction when completed?
Running down wiring problems — sometimes it feels like going through 40 miles of wire. Finding the problem and finishing a job like that feels really rewarding.
Do you have a least favorite repair?
Yes. The first thing I fixed was a smashed toilet valve under the bus! But some jobs are tougher than others, especially when they’re repetitive or physically demanding.
How long have you been in this role?
Just shy of two years.
Do you have a favorite bus feature?
I can’t really pick one, but the steerable drive axle is very nice.
What makes you proud about the work you do?
I like the fact that I help take care of a single fleet of 18 vehicles. Knowing the buses are taken care of and safely out on the road gives you pride in your work.
How much of your time is spent on preventive maintenance?
On my first day of training, I was told that my time should be focused on preventive maintenance so we can avoid bigger problems later.
What are some of the challenges of the job?
The physical side of it — everything is heavy!
What was your background before joining Thrasher?
I came from the automotive industry and worked as the lead technician at a Goodyear shop in Birmingham.
What made you decide Thrasher Trailways was the right move?
It’s a healthier environment than corporate companies, where you feel like just a number. I really enjoy the smaller, tight-knit atmosphere here. I didn’t know that most bus companies are family businesses, and that it provides a completely different experience.
What advice would you give someone new to the industry?
Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. Learn everything you can and ask questions — don’t be afraid to ask.
Why did you choose this career?
I’ve always been a fan of taking things apart and putting them back together. Before I worked professionally in automotive, I rebuilt an engine in my backyard. Now I have the challenge of learning to maintain these large motorcoaches, and that’s opened a whole new world for me.
What’s been a career highlight for you?
Honestly, just getting to go to work every day doing something I enjoy.
