About METS
Providing Forward-Thinking Transportation Solutions That Support Schools and Empower Students
For nearly two decades, Midwest Educational Transportation Services (METS) has partnered with schools in the Midwest to overcome the challenges of pupil transportation.
We know every district is unique. We offer flexible service models, expert training, and reliable staffing solutions – never a one-size-fits all approach.
What Drives METS
With METS service model options, your district gets the support it needs without long-term risk or added administrative burdens. Your district will gain:
Safety First
Protecting students is at the heart of everything we do.
Innovation
Forward-thinking solutions for today’s challenges.
Partnership
We work alongside your district, not over you.
Excellence
Delivering dependable service backed by proven expertise.
Integrity
Building trust with schools, employees, and families.
Leaders Who Make School Transportation Work for Your District
Bernie Pelc
President
With more than 20 years of experience in educational staffing and management services, Bernie Pelc has overseen the development of programs implemented in schools across the country. Raised in a family of educators, he brings both business acumen and a personal understanding of K–12 education. Recognized as an Entrepreneur of the Year by Greater Lansing Business Monthly, Bernie continues to lead METS’ multi-state service delivery with a vision for innovation, collaboration, and excellence in pupil transportation.
Patricia Beachnau
Chief Financial Officer
With over 25 years in finance and accounting, Patricia Beachnau guides METS’ financial strategy with a steady focus on accuracy, integrity, and growth. She brings over a decade of experience in educational staffing, blending private-sector expertise with a commitment to supporting schools. Known for her collaborative style, Patricia works across teams to strengthen operations and ensure long-term stability. Outside of work, Patricia enjoys time with her family and relaxing at the lake.
Chad Brown
Vice President of Business Development & Operations
As a co-founder of METS, Chad Brown has dedicated nearly 18 years to developing tailored staffing solutions for school districts. With a degree in Business Administration, earned through training on two continents, and early experience as a Fortune 400 market manager, Chad brings both global perspective and local commitment. At METS, he oversees business development and operations, helping districts design service delivery models that align with their needs and state guidelines. Chad is also a recognized industry voice, presenting at professional conferences on pupil transportation staffing and management.
Nicole Thomas
Director of Operations
Nicole Thomas has built her career in pupil transportation through nearly two decades of leadership experience. Beginning as a Transportation Coordinator in 2006, she advanced to manage larger departments with teams of 50+ drivers. Nicole is well-versed in compliance, DOT recordkeeping, and operational transitions, having led multiple fleet and staffing start-ups. Today, she oversees METS operations and training teams, supporting client districts, service providers, and staff across multiple states with proven expertise in both daily management and long-term strategy.
Stephanie Cowan
Director of Human Resources
Stephanie Cowan, SHRM-SCP, brings 30 years of HR leadership experience across retail, education, and telecommunications. She specializes in employment law, employee and labor relations, organizational development, and strategic HR alignment. Stephanie has built and led high-performing HR teams, developed inclusive workplace programs, and managed multi-million dollar HR budgets. At METS, she leads the HR department, ensuring that policies, processes, and initiatives align with both company vision and client district needs. Her work helps create positive work cultures while supporting compliance and cost-efficiency.
James Rajiah
Sales Account Manager
With years of experience serving school districts across the Midwest, James Rajiah brings a hands-on, customer-focused approach to helping schools solve their transportation challenges. At METS, he assists districts in identifying needs—whether recruiting drivers, filling management gaps, or addressing training requirements—and connecting them with the right solutions. James’ background in school bus fleet electrification and his continued service as a licensed school bus driver give him both technical expertise and real-world perspective to guide client partnerships.
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Get Started With a Customized Transportation Plan
Ready to create efficiencies and reduce headaches in staffing your transportation department?
Let us help you find the program that is right for your needs.