Greensboro, NC – Sunway Charters, a leading provider of charter bus services, is pleased to announce a schedule change for its Mountaineer East / West route service between Greensboro, NC, and Boone, NC.  This bus service will continue to be provided by Sunway Charters, providing passengers with a reliable and comfortable transportation option between the two cities.

The change in route times comes at the request of the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), who identified the need for an adjusted timing for passengers traveling between Greensboro and Boone. The new route times are designed to better support passengers who rely on this route for their travel needs – especially those utilizing Amtrak in Greensboro.

“We are committed to providing our passengers with the best possible travel experience,” said Lee Helms, President of Sunway Charters. “We believe that this route change will make it easier and more convenient for passengers to travel between Greensboro and Boone, and we are excited to be able to offer this improved service.”

Passengers are encouraged to take note of the changed route times and plan their travel accordingly. The new route times will go into effect on Monday, February 26, 2024. Tickets for the new route times can be purchased online at https://sunwaycharters.com/bus-tickets/.

For more information about Sunway Charters and its services, please visit www.sunwaycharters.com or contact us at 704-348-1200.

Contact:
Jacob Hooks
Operations Manager
Sunway Charters
704-348-1200
info@sunwaycharters.com

Sunway Charters is proud to announce the return of HR Director Paige Frazier, whose commitment to employees forms the foundation of her approach to human resources. Having first joined the company in 2014, Paige served in Sunways’ HR role for five years before taking time away to explore new challenges. However, the unique, close-knit culture at Sunway stayed with her, and she felt drawn back to the company. “I was ready to do something different, so I called Art and Lee, and they offered me my job back,” Paige shared. Her return marked not only a professional homecoming but also an opportunity to deepen her impact on Sunway’s culture and its people.

In her role, Paige oversees a variety of responsibilities that keep the company running smoothly. A typical week includes payroll processing, maintaining employee records, and managing benefits—all critical tasks that support the well-being and success of Sunway’s team. For Paige, the true reward lies in seeing employees thrive. She views her role as one of service to the staff, explaining, “I work for the employees, while everyone else works for our customers.” By focusing on employee success, she contributes to a workplace where team members feel valued and motivated, which ultimately translates to exceptional customer service.

One of Paige’s greatest joys is Sunway’s “small, family atmosphere,” a culture she actively works to maintain. Her commitment to open communication and accessibility is evident, as she makes herself available for employees who need guidance or support. Building strong relationships with staff is key to fostering loyalty, and it’s a value Paige takes to heart. While she admits that confrontation doesn’t come naturally, Paige handles difficult conversations head-on to ensure transparency and fairness. She believes that this balance of empathy and directness is essential for building trust within the team and maintaining a positive work environment.

Looking to the future, Paige is excited about streamlining Sunway’s hiring and onboarding processes to improve employee retention and satisfaction. She believes that a smooth start helps set new employees up for long-term success and is eager to implement these changes. With a genuine dedication to helping others succeed, she focuses on continuous improvement to make Sunway a great place to work. For Paige, it’s not only about filling roles but also about ensuring each team member feels prepared and supported from day one.

As Paige continues her journey with Sunway, she sees her role as integral to the company’s growth. “I plan to stay with the company and help it grow,” she shared, underscoring her commitment to both Sunway’s future and the success of its employees. Her approach to HR, grounded in partnership and teamwork, has a transformative impact on the company. By championing employee well-being and fostering a culture of respect and collaboration, Paige is once again helping Sunway Charters thrive—one dedicated employee at a time.

Sunway Charters is thrilled to announce the appointment of their new Winston-Salem Terminal Manager, Jimmy Watson, a seasoned professional with an impressive 35-year background in the transportation industry. This exciting addition to the Sunway family is poised to bring a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the terminal, promising an era of growth, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence.

Jimmy’s journey in transportation began decades ago with a brief stint at Greyhound, quickly followed by a role driving a charter bus for Carolina American Tours, which is no longer in business. Over the years, he navigated through various positions, each one adding a unique layer to his extensive experience. From driving for different companies to taking on office responsibilities such as dispatch and mapping and routing trips for drivers, his career path has been both diverse and enriching. His roles in dispatch and driver supervision further honed his skills, eventually leading him to a long-term career driving trucks and an eventual transition to the role of safety director.

The opportunity to join Sunway Charters as Terminal Manager came about through a conversation with Ronnie Stanley, one of Sunway Charters’ most tenured drivers, at church. Finding that Sunway was looking for a terminal manager, Jimmy saw it as the perfect chance to leverage his extensive experience and make a significant impact. The application marked the beginning of his exciting new chapter with Sunway.

With a career spanning multiple facets of transportation, Jimmy Watson brings invaluable skills and insights to his new role. His experience in managing drivers, coupled with a deep understanding of motorcoach safety, makes him well positioned to oversee the terminal’s operations. His hands-on experience ensures he comprehends the challenges drivers face and equips him with the tools to manage them effectively.

In his new role, Jimmy is committed to ensuring every customer experiences the “wow” factor that sets Sunway Charters apart. He envisions a terminal where the best drivers in the business provide top-notch service, creating enjoyable and memorable experiences for all passengers. By continuing to foster a customer-centric culture, he aims to further elevate Sunway Charters’ reputation and drive its growth.

“My immediate focus is on continuing to build a robust driving staff capable of handling any business that comes their way,” says Jimmy. “It’s important to maintain a high level of customer satisfaction.” Jimmy is dedicated to addressing any challenges that arise. Personally, and professionally, he aims to enhance the well-established Sunway work environment where drivers feel comfortable voicing their concerns and engaging in open discussions.

Integration into the Sunway Charters team is a priority for Jimmy. He is committed to building strong relationships with his colleagues and drivers, ensuring they know he has their best interests at heart. His open-door policy and approachable demeanor are set to create a positive and collaborative work environment.

Looking ahead, Jimmy aspires to make the Winston-Salem terminal a bustling hub of activity, with increased trips and a growing team of drivers. His ultimate goal is to find Sunway to be a fulfilling place from which to retire, having made a lasting impact on the terminal’s success and growth.

Outside of his professional life, Jimmy enjoys a fulfilling personal life with his wife and their beloved 12-year-old shih-poo. Camping and outdoor cooking are among his favorite pastimes, providing a relaxing escape and an opportunity to indulge in his passion for grilling and smoking foods.

With his extensive experience, dedication to customer satisfaction, and a clear vision for the future, Sunway Charters’ new Winston-Salem Terminal Manager Jimmy Watson is set to lead the terminal to new heights. His commitment to excellence and passion for the industry make him an invaluable asset to the Sunway team. The future looks exceptionally bright as he embarks on this exciting journey with Sunway Charters.

A typical day in Shatoria’s role is a whirlwind of activity, from providing bus schedule times to generating quotes and ensuring driver paperwork is in order. Yet, amidst the hustle and bustle, Shatoria finds several moments of fulfillment. “What I find most rewarding about my job is when I book a trip, and the trip goes smoothly, with no issues,” she shares. “It’s the best feeling in the world; I feel accomplished.” It’s this sense of accomplishment that drives Shatoria to go above and beyond for her clients, day in and day out.

What sets Shatoria’s approach to charter sales apart is not just her skill set, but her attitude. “I am a very positive and friendly person, very resourceful and reliable,” she asserts. It’s these qualities that underpin her exceptional customer service skills, making her a trusted partner for clients seeking transportation solutions. In an industry often characterized by impersonal transactions, Shatoria brings a human touch that leaves a lasting impression.

In the fast-paced world of charter sales, where deadlines loom and schedules must be met, it’s easy to lose sight of the human element. But for Shatoria and Sunway Charters, personalized service and dedication are not just buzzwords—they’re the cornerstone of their success. With Shatoria at the reins, clients can rest assured that their transportation needs will be met with efficiency, reliability, and above all, a personal touch.

At the bustling heart of 3636 N Glenn Avenue in Winston-Salem, nestled amidst the ebb and flow of travelers, lies a terminal with a history as rich and enduring as the roads it serves. This terminal, which started out as Piedmont Coach Lines in the late 1960s and is now one of the thriving terminals of Sunway Charters, has been witness to half a century of relentless dedication and unwavering service, all embodied in the life and career of one man – Ronnie Stanley.

For half a century, this terminal has been his sanctuary, a place where he has embarked on adventures and forged connections that transcend the miles traveled.  We asked Ronnie to reflect on his journey, from sweeping floors as a wide-eyed 10-year-old to training the next generation of drivers. Talking with Ronnie, we can’t help but realize the profound impact of a life spent behind the wheel.

The story begins in the late 1950s, as Piedmont Coach Lines opened its doors and embarked on its own journey into the world of transportation, with the senior Mr. Stanley in the role of General Manager. It was during his formative years in the early 1960s, at the tender age of 10, that Ronnie was given the opportunity to take his first steps into this world of wheels and roads, earning his stripes with a broom and mop, courtesy of his father’s guidance and a modest payment of 25 cents.

Fast forward to 1974 when Ronnie, now a seasoned presence at the terminal, approached Kenneth Chilton, Piedmont Coach Lines’ owner, with a simple request: to test the waters behind the wheel. What began as a fleeting curiosity evolved into a lifelong passion, spanning six different bus companies over five decades of service. From Piedmont Coach Lines to Sunway Charters and every organization in between, these transitions marked another chapter in Ronnie’s enduring love affair with driving.

But what truly sets this journey apart is not just the miles covered or the companies served; it’s the ethos that defines his every moment behind the wheel. For Ronnie, being a bus driver has been more than just a profession; it’s been a calling – a commitment to excellence and service that transcended mere duty.

Throughout the years, Ronnie honed not only his driving skills but also his dedication to the passengers entrusted to his care. From meticulously maintaining his appearance to fostering a warm and welcoming environment onboard, every detail mattered. Whether it was keeping the windshield spotless or personally providing cup holders for added comfort, his attention to the little things spoke volumes about his commitment to passenger satisfaction.

But perhaps the true measure of his legacy lies in his role as a mentor and trainer. With retirement on the horizon, Ronnie has taken it upon himself to impart his knowledge and experience to the next generation of Sunway drivers. Armed with a handbook crafted from years of hands-on expertise, he guides new recruits and tenured drivers alike, through the nuances of the job, emphasizing not just the technicalities but also the personal touch that sets great drivers apart.

As he reflects on his journey, Ronnie leaves behind a simple yet profound message for those who follow in his footsteps: driving is more than just a job; it’s a vocation, a privilege, and a responsibility. It’s about embracing the challenges, cherishing the moments, and above all, putting passengers first.

In an ever-changing world, where technology reigns supreme and trends come and go, the timeless virtues of dedication, service, and compassion endure. And at the heart of 3636 Glenn Avenue in Winston-Salem, amidst the hustle and bustle of the Sunway Charters terminal, one man’s journey serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of the open road.

Here’s to you Ronnie – Sunway Charters is grateful for your many years and we look forward to exploring this new journey of onboarding new drivers and having them all take a chapter from your book.

Passengers ride aboard Sunway Charter’s comfortable 56-passenger commuter coaches

Phyllis has been with Sunway since October 2016 and serves as a Sales/Travel Consultant. A wealth of information and experience, Phyllis doesn’t just handle quotes & bookings. Phyllis’ approach to working with clients is more of a consulting manner for their transportation needs. Many times, callers aren’t sure what they will need or may need help working through the logistics for their groups. Phyllis also serves as Sunway Charlotte’s office manager.

“I had my own delivery service company in North Carolina. I moved to South Carolina for a time where I worked at a motorcoach company, so I was already familiar with the industry. When I moved back to Charlotte, I called an old friend who worked at Sunway and that is how I ended up here!” explains Phyllis.

“I have helped many people who are trying to secure transportation for a son or daughter’s wedding and find they just don’t know where to start. It is gratifying when I can help them figure out what they need and get the process started for them. I really enjoy helping people who really need some guidance, as well as their gratitude and relief when we get it worked out for them. I really enjoy the work environment here at Sunway.”

When she’s not at work, Phyllis enjoys raising chickens and working outside in her yard. She also takes care of her young granddaughters on the weekend and enjoys doing fun and educational things with them. “I love going to the movies or reading a good book sitting on my outside swing.”

Phyllis – we love having you as part of the Sunway family – we don’t know what we’d do without you!

Sunway Charters has a reputation not just for great transportation services, but also for the culture they create within, and the caliber of the people they hire.

Sunway Charters’ latest addition to the team, Charlotte’s new Terminal Manager David Kulhawik, hails from Coco Beach, Florida, and currently resides in Belmont, North Carolina with his spouse and dogs. Outside of Sunway, David loves to ride his side-by-side UTV (Utility Terrain Vehicle,) work in his yard improving his lawn and flower beds and spend time with his family and his German Shepherd, Rottweiler, and Yorkie pups.

David began his transportation career at the age of 17, in a position with a local funeral home, Carolina Mortuary Services, transporting decedents. In his capacity driving for this company, he found that he very much enjoyed being behind the wheel and decided to pursue a career as a professional chauffeur. He subsequently took on a new position with a prominent full-service black car limousine transportation company, where he spent the next several years. “I loved the idea of meeting new people and the wide variety of personalities there are to interact with. Plus, there are so many places and incredible scenery to see. I didn’t want to miss those opportunities,” David expressed. “And distance driving is a great opportunity for self-reflection.”

As a natural progression to a promising career, David decided to acquire his CDL. Eager to further develop his skills as a driver and take on more responsibility, he obtained a passenger endorsement and started a job with Sunway Charters, driving motorcoaches and transporting larger groups of people. These trips took him around the country, from New York to Louisiana and all the way to California. As he loved serving passengers, he quickly realized that this was a perfect marriage of the thrill of driving and personal interaction that he loves.

After spending a few years with Sunway, he received an opportunity to join another motorcoach company, where it was not long before he became one of their most-requested chauffeurs, enabling him to travel to even more exciting destinations and enjoy many unique experiences.

Having built an impressive resume, David was eventually offered a full-time position as Safety Officer with a motorcoach company in South Carolina, where he took the initiative to receive multiple DOT certifications in drug and alcohol screening and to further immerse himself in the direct management of safety regulations. He also successfully created and implemented a company-wide safety manual and regularly conducted safety classes for all new hires. He has also led the company through the passing of three rigorous DOT audits.

Finally, after building this illustrious career, opportunity knocked, and David found his way back home to Sunway Charters this past winter. “I was ready for a change,” stated David. “I found out that Sunway was looking for someone, so I called Lee.” David is happy to take on the position of the new manager for the company’s Charlotte terminal, and we are so happy to have him back to take on this role.

Sunway Charters has a reputation not just for great transportation services, but also for the culture they create within, and the caliber of the people they hire.

This issue, we highlight the indomitable team that is Sunway Charters – Jacksonville.

Heading up the Jacksonville terminal is Terminal Manager Erica Robinson. A native of the Jacksonville area, Erica attended Coastal Carolina Community College in Jacksonville in pursuit of a Criminal Justice degree. Getting her foot in the door of the transportation industry, Erica accepted a part-time position with Coach America in 2003, reviewing paper driver service logs, a job at which her detail-oriented mind excelled.

In 2006, Erica was promoted to a full-time administrative position with Coach America, where she happily settled for the next several years as the company changed hands several times over the next decade, helping to sustain the various changes to the company as they occurred.

At the inception of Sunway Charters’ 2015 acquisition of the company, owner Lee Helms saw something special in Erica and in 2016, offered her the opportunity to move into a management position within the company. While she had never really seen herself in this type of role, Erica feels that the experience and growth have been very beneficial to her on both personal and career levels. As she says, “Sometimes you just don’t know what you’re capable of until you’re pushed.  I have worked with some great mentors in this industry that have helped me get where I am today.”

Erica summarizes, “I love the business, I love Sunway. Lee Helms has been so good to us, and I love every team member we have here at Sunway. I couldn’t do what I do, and Sunway couldn’t do what it does if it wasn’t for each individual employee and the role they play here in the company. They are all important. I have wonderful customers that I get to deal with and build relationships with. It’s just amazing to hear the wonderful stories of their trips, their “Sunway” experience.”

We sure are glad she didn’t pursue that career in Criminal Justice!

While not managing the Jacksonville Sunway terminal, Erica loves to spend time curled up with a good book, attend her church, spend time with her best friend and husband, Thomas, and their four kids and grandchild, and most especially travel extensively with Thomas.

Another crucial member at the Sunway Charters’ Jacksonville terminal is Maintenance Manager and 22-year Marine Corps veteran, Dennis Beach.

Dennis began his career with the Marine Corps in 1982, where he began basic training in San Diego. During his time with the Marines, he trained as a Heavy Equipment Operator where he often was charged with having to fix his own equipment. He saw active duty in Operation Desert Shield / Storm, was deployed to numerous operations during his enlistment, including Fort Lejeune, NC, and finalized his military career at Marine Corps Engineer School in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri in 2004 at the rank of Gunnery Sergeant.

After leaving the military in 2004, Dennis returned to North Carolina where he soon found a position with Coach America as a wash rack supervisor. He was quickly promoted to Preventative Maintenance Mechanic. Over the years, he held positions within the changing companies as lot foreman, strom water supervisor, and underground storage tank supervisor as he continued to climb the ranks within the company until in 2018 when he was offered the position of Sunway Charters’ Jacksonville terminal maintenance manager.

In his spare time, Dennis enjoys spending time with his adult daughter, bicycling, reading a good science fiction or historical book, and getting engrossed in a great movie.

As Jacksonville is home to Marine Corps Camp Lejeune, Camp Geiger, and New River Air Station, Sunway Charters proudly transports our military service members on a weekly basis.

Sunway also holds a contract with Amtrak through its Jacksonville terminal to service two routes, 365 days a year.

Once buses arrive at the Amtrak station in Wilson, Sunway waits for the afternoon train and drops passengers off in the reverse of the routes above.

During the recent business shutdowns during 2020-2021, at a time when there was very little travel, Sunway’s maintenance department began offering its maintenance services to local companies. They now specialize in providing maintenance services to several local bus fleets, including Camp Lejeune school buses.

For more information on how we can assist you with your transportation or fleet maintenance needs, please contact Erica at erica@sunwaycharters.com or 910-577-4422.