Shiela Barefield Awarded for Reaching 30 Year Milestone

Bremerton, Washington – May 25th, 2023. In a remarkable milestone that speaks volumes about her dedication and commitment, Shiela Barefield recently celebrated an impressive 30 years with Paratransit Services. Shiela started as a part time screener/scheduler in 1993 but quickly worked her way up becoming a full time CSR/Broker in 1994. Through her many years of service, she has become the Brokerage Department’s expert on Pierce County, one of the largest counties we serve. The amount of knowledge Shiela possesses in regards to her service region is truly remarkable, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and clients alike. Shiela's unwavering commitment and contagious enthusiasm have served as an inspiration to others in the company and earned her many awards including Paratransit Services highest honor, the Bill Dane Award in 2004.

President/CEO David Baker recognized Shiela for reaching this milestone in her career during a small presentation in the Brokerage Call Center. She was presented with a commemorative plaque and special 30 years of service pin. Mr. Baker had this to say about Shiela:

“I am blessed and honored to have someone like Shiela work at Paratransit Services. Over the past three decades, Shiela has touched and made a difference in tens of thousands of lives in the community we serve. She is an example to all of us”.

While accepting her awards, Shiela was asked to say a few words about her time at Paratransit Services. After pausing briefly to collect her thoughts, Shiela shared the following:

“I know that what we do makes a difference. I was speaking with a Mom whose child is ill and she thanked me. I told her we were so glad we could take the stress of transportation away from her. At the end of our call, she asked if I would pray for her child. I said I would and she thanked me! This is why I have been here so long. I know that what we do makes a difference. It isn't always easy. But I know what I am doing is helping make this world a better place. That's why I'm here.”

Shiela always goes above and beyond to provide the highest level of customer service. Her attention to the detail, such as wishing a client a happy birthday when she sees that their birthday is coming up or recently passed, has created stronger relationships with her clients. Her greatest concern has always been for the individuals that we serve.

On behalf of Paratransit Services, our service partners, and our clients, we are honored to congratulate Shiela Barefield on this remarkable achievement! Thank you for everything you do for this community.