A Combined 90+ Years with Anderson Coach & Travel
At Anderson Coach & Travel, we’re proud of the many people who make our company what it is—a family. Few embody that spirit better than Motorcoach Operator Tom McGlynn, Tour Director Carol Decamp and Controller Ed Black. Recently, we celebrated these three outstanding individuals upon their retirement, honoring a combined 90+ years of dedication with a luncheon at our Greenville complex.
Their stories, commitment to service, and love for people remind us why we do what we do and why Anderson continues to be one of the most trusted bus tour companies in the region.
Tom McGlynn: Two Million Miles of Dedication
Tom’s journey with Anderson began in the early 1980s when he moved to the area from Minnesota looking for work. Having driven commercial vehicles before, he applied to drive motorcoaches. But it was his first meeting with Anderson’s legendary founder, O.D. Anderson, that sealed the deal.
“I knew this was the place I wanted to be after talking to O.D. for five minutes,” Tom remembered. “He impressed me as an honest, caring individual who knew where he was going.”
That impression proved true. In a career traveling more than two million miles for Anderson, McGlynn cherished the company’s reputation for quality and considerate service. “We had such a good reputation everywhere we went,” he said. “If you took care of your passengers, they’d take care of you.”
One of Tom’s favorite memories from the road began during the Nashville Fan Fair trip. He was helping to coordinate a live radio show and noticed a young lady about to perform looking nervous. Tom walked over to her, started chatting, and reassured her that she’d do just fine. “We talked, and I tried to help calm her nerves,” Tom recalled. That young woman turned out to be country music superstar Shania Twain. As the years went by and she returned for more guest performances, she always remembered Tom, stopping to chat and share a hug. “It was amazing,” he said. “She never forgot.”
After decades on the road, what Tom says he’ll miss most is the people: “I just like to travel. I like the people. I’ve got friends all over the country.”
Tom has the distinction of being the second person ever to win the national award naming him American Bus Association Motorcoach Operator of the Year in 2020.
Carol Decamp: From Passenger to Beloved Tour Director
Carol’s story started as a passenger organizing a bus trip to see The Phantom of the Opera. That single experience sparked a dream: when she retired from her career at Packard Electric, she’d become a tour director at Anderson
And she did just that—bringing joy and unforgettable experiences to senior traveling groups and adventure seekers alike for 30 years. “I loved the job, I loved the people, and we went to wonderful places,” Carol said. She’s been leading happy Anderson tour guests from coast to coast ever since.
Carol’s favorite trips included a 28-day tour through the Canadian Rockies to Alaska, where every day brought new sights and memories. She also loved holiday trips to Nashville’s Gaylord Opryland Hotel, which she described as “absolutely gorgeous” during the season.
But more than the destinations, it was the people she treasured. A passenger once sent her a handmade quilt with every state they’d visited together stitched into it—a heartfelt thank-you for years of shared memories. “It was so special,” Decamp said.
That kind of connection is what Carol cherished most about her job. “If you show them you care about them, they’ll care about you,” she shared. “That’s very important to me.”
She admits retirement wasn’t easy to decide. “I had a very hard time retiring. I’ve talked about it for years. But it’s been so hard because I loved the people and the interaction.”
Carol noted that the Anderson name and logo is widely respected throughout the country.
“When I go out and see the Anderson jacket on the road, I’m proud because Anderson has a great reputation.”
Ed Black: Two Decades of Stewardship and Dedication
For more than 20 years, Ed Black has been a cornerstone of Anderson Coach & Travel, serving as Financial Controller and ensuring the company’s stability through periods of growth, challenge, and success.
Ed remembers the day he first joined Anderson: “I applied to an ad and was hired on Christmas Eve of 2004,” he shared. Having always worked for family-owned businesses, Ed felt right at home immediately. “You could feel that the moment you walked through the door. Over time, you’re not just an employee, you’re part of a family.”
That sense of belonging shaped Ed’s commitment for over two decades. “The people here make a difference. Being associated with the Anderson name brings respect. I’m proud to be associated with them”.
Black described his time at Anderson as both professionally and personally transformative. “I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with the owners, and I’ve seen how they take care of their people. Every decision they make has their people in mind. They are generous and thoughtful,” he said.
As Controller, Ed played a key role in the company’s financial leadership and growth. “The people here make a difference. Every decision the owners make has their people in mind,” he said. From guiding Anderson through the COVID-19 pandemic to celebrating new school district partnerships, Ed was there through it all.
When asked what he’ll miss most, Ed was quick to answer: “The job itself. I’ve been challenged to be a better accountant and a better person.”
He offered simple but powerful advice to those just starting out at Anderson: “Work hard, give back, enjoy it. It isn’t always about the money. You get back a lot of what you give.”
Ed also credited Doug Anderson with being a major influence: “Doug is so impressive with what he knows about the industry. He knows his numbers, and he challenges me in a way that made me a better accountant, a better employee, a better person. He made me grow in so many ways.”
Ed hopes to be remembered as someone who was always willing to help when needed, as a hard worker, and as someone who contributed meaningfully to the team.
Join the Anderson Team
The legacy of Tom, Carol, and Ed lives on in the culture at Anderson Coach & Travel. Their stories reflect the heart of our organization—one built on respect, service, and a shared love of travel. If you’re looking for a rewarding career where you’re more than just a number, Anderson might be the perfect fit.
We’re currently hiring! Whether you're interested in how to become a charter bus driver, driving school bus so you keep the same hours as your kids, mechanic work, or administrative roles, there's a place for you on our team. Learn more and apply today at GoAnderson.com/careers or drive4anderson.com if you're ready to hit the road.
From renting a charter bus for your group outing to booking your next big adventure, Anderson Coach & Travel remains committed to delivering safe, friendly, and professional service. We're proud of the people who make that possible—and honored to celebrate their legacy.
Whether you're a loyal traveler or just exploring charter bus options for the first time, we invite you to experience the difference with Anderson.
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