• Fleet size : 38 vehicles
• Two locations : Carlsbad , New Mexico ; and Lubbock , Texas
One of the most unique stories of the motorcoach and transportation industry is Ms . Denise Boyea , located in Carlsbad , New Mexico . Not only is it unique , but follows a non-traditional route of involvement in the business . Her story shares that persistence and goals come in a variety of areas , influence and life events , including outside the motorcoach industry .
Denise ’ s journey in the motorcoach industry started in 1989 when her husband then , Jack Knittel , purchased a vehicle to provide transportation to railroad crews to and from the work locations . After seeing success , the business expanded into provided local resident transportation and in the mid 90 ’ s , secured a life changing contract with a sub-contractor of the Department of Energy to provide employee shuttling . The contract was secured by thinking outside the box and providing opportunities to an organization that had not previously existed . This contract solidified the family-owned business in the motorcoach and transportation industry . Significant growth , including adding a brick and mortar shop followed in the mid to late 1990 ’ s .
While Denise was alongside her family ’ s side during the entire process , her role was a bit different . Denise was a practicing lawyer even before her husband , decided to enter the transportation industry . Denise played a key role in setting up New Mexico Texas Coaches for success providing legal advice , contracts and other corporate paperwork necessary to establish and operate the businesses . Denise completed this work alongside her full time position as a lawyer , focusing on criminal defense and later guardian ad litem work representing children in foster care , eventually opening a practice of her own .
In addition to being a lawyer , Denise ’ s favorite job was being a mom to daughter Monica and son Chris . Monica and Chris grew up in the bus shop . Monica and Chris were regulars after school at the business learning their strong work ethic from both parents . Chris recalls playing around the motorcoaches . Chris took pride in helping his dad Jack wash motorcoaches and prepare for the next adventure .
In 2006 , New Mexico Texas Coaches expanded across state lines with an operation in Lubbock , Texas . This location provided an opportunity for business name update along with significant growth in contracts with colleges such as Texas Tech University , Lubbock Christian University and others . The company obtained Department of Defense certification , and has an excellent working relationship with the military providing transportation to soldiers , National Guard troops and onto military bases .
After Jack ’ s unexpected passing at age 52 , Denise made the decision in 2012 to purchase the motorcoach company from Jack ’ s family allowing Monica , Chris and Denise to run the operation as business partners . Today , Denise serves as the City Attorney for Carlsbad , New Mexico . She is still involved in the motorcoach organization efforts , growth , operations and most recently , downsizing due to the significant impacts of COVID-19 and the pandemic . Prior to the pandemic , New Mexico Texas Coaches largest customers included employee shuttling contract for a Department of Energy contractor , college sports and event transportation , allowing for careers and jobs of 50 plus employees during the peak .
While significant challenges lie ahead for the motorcoach industry , Denise is hopeful for a return and resuming operations in 2021 . Her primary concern is resuming operations for the livelihood of her children , Monica and Chris and their families .
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