LEWISTON, Maine — NorthEast Charter has added two industry veterans to its team as the company expands its driver training and customer support operations across New England.
The Lewiston-based motorcoach company announced the hiring of Bob Patnaude as driver trainer and Jim Mercier for its charter sales team.
Company officials said the additions reflect NorthEast Charter’s continued investment in workforce development and customer experience as demand for group transportation services grows throughout the region.
Patnaude brings nearly 40 years of experience in the transportation industry, including backgrounds in emergency response, public safety, safety instruction and professional motorcoach operations in Maine. During his career, he has logged millions of accident-free miles and mentored new drivers entering the industry.
“Bob brings something incredibly valuable to our organization — experience paired with a genuine desire to help others succeed,” said Scott Riccio, president and CEO of NorthEast Charter. “As the need for professional CDL drivers continues to grow across the country, we are excited to increase our training capacity right here in Maine. Bob understands what it means to mentor, to teach confidence, and to help shape the next generation of safe, professional motorcoach operators.”
Company leaders said Patnaude’s hiring will help expand NorthEast Charter’s in-house driver development programs and support local workforce opportunities.
Mercier joins the company’s charter sales division after nearly two decades working in customer service, sales, event operations and guest-experience management. His background includes leadership roles at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, where he worked in event coordination and customer relations.
“Jim understands people, relationships, and community,” said Christa McCusker, vice president of sales and business development at NorthEast Charter. “As our charter activity continues to grow, we are thrilled to expand the capacity of our sales team with someone who understands customer experience at such a high level. His energy and professionalism are a wonderful fit for our organization and for the clients we serve every day.”
NorthEast Charter provides transportation services for school trips, sports teams, corporate events, weddings, tours and community travel throughout New England and beyond.
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