#United States #Anaheim, California #First Student #First Charge #ACT Expo

First Student Showcases the Innovative First Charge Solution at ACT Expo 2025

From April 28-30, 2025, First Student, a leading name in electrified student transportation, will present its groundbreaking First Charge solution at the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo, which will take place at the Anaheim Convention Center in California. This event presents a distinctive opportunity for attendees to visit First Student and its partner, TECO-Westinghouse, at Booth #6789, where they will learn how their collaboration is transforming the landscape of clean transportation through innovative solutions.

The Future of Clean Transportation

First Charge is not just a technological innovation but a commitment to sustainability in the school transportation sector. John Kenning, the CEO and President of First Student, stated, "As North America's leading school transportation provider, sustainability is reflected in our strategy, company values, and innovation efforts." This echoes the importance of embracing clean transportation solutions, especially for school districts, medium-duty, and heavy-duty fleet operators.

In an industry where innovation is critical, First Student has made significant strides, recently celebrating an impressive 5 million miles driven on its electric school buses. Much of this achievement is attributed to the First Charge infrastructure, a patented and modular above-ground charging solution that not only reduces costs but also increases scalability. This alleviates the burdens of traditional construction methods, making it a cost-effective option for districts transitioning to electrified models.

The First Charge solution is now accessible to all school districts and fleet operators on a subscription basis, streamlining the process for those looking to adopt electric buses.

Recognition and Awards

First Student's commitment to innovation and sustainability has not gone unnoticed. The company was honored with the prestigious 2025 Edison Award in the Scalable Clean Transportation Energy category for the First Charge solution. Additionally, it made it onto Fast Company's annual list of the World's Most Innovative Companies in 2025, underscoring its leadership in sustainable innovation.

These accolades highlight First Student's dedication to enhancing not only electric student transportation but also improving the performance and environmental impact of gas-powered vehicles. As the transportation industry moves toward a cleaner future, First Student is paving the way for effective and efficient solutions.

Engaging in Thought Leadership at ACT Expo

The ACT Expo will also serve as a platform for thought leadership discussions with key speakers from First Student. John Kenning will participate in a panel discussion alongside leaders from other significant companies, exploring the future of sustainable transportation. Other panel discussions will feature Kevin Matthews, who will discuss the acceleration of electric school bus adoption, and Alex Cook, who will share insights on depot site evaluations for electrification. Each speaker will contribute to the broader conversation about the necessary changes in the transportation industry.

Furthermore, Jen Harp, the VP of EV Programs at First Student, will lead a session on the challenges and opportunities faced in the shift toward sustainable school transport, highlighting a collaborative approach necessary for industry-wide change.

About First Student

As a trusted provider of K-12 transportation solutions, First Student ensures a reliable and safe transport for 5.5 million students across North America. Its goal is not only about logistics but creating a welcoming environment for students, thus supporting their educational journey. With a fleet of 45,000 buses, First Student is on track to complete 1 billion student trips in the 2024-25 school year alone, embodying its commitment to safety, reliability, and innovation.

With initiatives like the First Charge solution, First Student is leading the charge for a sustainable transportation future, demonstrating that responsibility towards the environment can go hand-in-hand with efficiency and safety in student transportation.