From the FBI’s Top Ranks to the Front Seat of a School Bus: Mike Mason’s Quiet Act of Service

In a world that often equates success with titles and status, the story of Mike Mason is a powerful reminder that true impact is measured by service, not position.

Mike Mason had what many would describe as a storied career. After 23 years with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, he rose to become Executive Assistant Director, overseeing the FBI’s Criminal Branch. “About half of the FBI fell under me,” Mason once explained. “For context, I was fourth on the FBI’s food chain.”

After retiring, Mason could easily have settled into a quiet life. Instead, he noticed a growing problem close to home. Across the United States, more than half of school districts were reporting severe or desperate school bus driver shortages. His own community in Chesterfield was no exception.

So he did something simple, yet extraordinary. He applied to become a school bus driver.

Answering the Call in a Different Way

The decision was shaped by the lessons of the pandemic.
“When the pandemic struck, there were so many people doing extra things,” Mason reflected. “Reporters, grocery store workers, people who still had to show up. I felt like I could be doing something to help in this post-pandemic recovery.”

Today, Mason drives a school bus for special education students. It may be far from FBI headquarters, but he approaches the role with the same seriousness and discipline. Every morning begins with a full pre-inspection of the bus. His priority is clear and unwavering. “The thing I want to primarily assure is that every kid is going to be safe on this bus.”

And yes, he takes pride in the details. He jokes about keeping Turtle Wax in his kit to polish an oxidized hood. “Oh no, I can’t do that,” he laughed. “So, I am what I am.”

A Job That Deepens Empathy

What stands out most is how the role has shaped him.
“This job has truly expanded my capacity for empathy and understanding,” Mason says. “I have kids who are sometimes as placid as a beautiful lake, and sometimes as chaotic as a storm.”

He does not diminish his past achievements, but he places them in perspective. “I’ve done some important things,” he says, “but guess what? This is important, too.”

Inspiring Others to Give a Little More

Mason hopes his journey encourages others to look differently at community service.
“I believe if all of us gave a little something, wow, how we could impact this world. How we could change this world.”

His story, beautifully spotlighted by Steve Hartman on CBS, is not about career reinvention for applause. It is about recognizing that meaningful work exists everywhere.

Whether you are leading a critical government agency or ensuring children arrive at school safely each morning, Mason reminds us that “important work” takes many forms. In his words, we all contribute stones to build the cathedral.

Thank you, Mike Mason, for reminding us that humility, empathy, and service never retire.