With 40 years of experience in the public transit service industry, Chris James has built a remarkable career starting from an entry-level position and quickly advancing to senior leadership positions within the Golden Empire Transit District. Through hard work and commitment, Chris steadily advanced to vehicle maintenance supervisor followed by a promotion to the position of maintenance manager in 2002. He progressed to Director of Maintenance in 2019 overseeing fleet maintenance, facilities, procurement, sustainability and capital project management. Because of his exceptional performance, in 2024 the Golden Empire Transit District’s Board of Directors selected Chris as Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Through his leadership, the District implemented an Environmental Management Sustainability Program eventually achieving an ISO 14001 certification for exceptional environmental and sustainability practices. During his tenure, he successfully transitioned the District's fleet from diesel to compressed natural gas, and he is currently transitioning the District’s fleet to hydrogen fuel cell battery electric technology. Chris successfully completed one of the State of California’s first liquid hydrogen heavy-duty fueling stations supporting the District’s 14 hydrogen fuel cell buses he procured in 2021 showcasing his commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship.
At the outset of his appointment as CEO, Chris focused on cultivating strong relationships within the organization by promoting open communication. His goal is to ensure all employees feel valued, supported and heard. Through his efforts, he is building trust and respect between leadership and the employees. He believes a united workforce is the foundation of a successful future for Golden Empire Transit District.
