For more than 15 years, Ernest “Ernie” Dillie Jr. has been the steady hand guiding the transportation system for Mercer County Schools. Known for his dedication, photographic memory, and deep roots in the community, Ernie ensures that students travel safely across countless miles of countryside, making him a cornerstone of the district’s daily operations.

Ernie’s story begins on Ridge Road near Aledo, where he grew up before his family moved to northern Wisconsin in 1970. Surrounded by the beauty of a 320-acre parcel with a lake at its center, Ernie developed a love for hard work and problem-solving. After earning welding and mechanical credentials from a technical school in Rice Lake, Wisconsin, he worked for Chevy and at a salvage yard before deciding to strike out on his own.

In 1982, Ernie returned to Mercer County to start his own garage. Partnering with his brother, who ran a welding shop in Joy, Ernie built a successful business that served the community for nearly three decades. “I got to know so many people through that shop,” he recalls. “It’s part of why I feel so connected to Mercer County.”

In 2008, the school board approached Ernie with an opportunity to join the district as a mechanic and transportation director. At first, he tried to juggle both roles, but the demands of running a business and managing the district’s transportation system proved too much. By 2010, he closed the garage to focus entirely on serving Mercer County Schools. “I realized I couldn’t be everywhere at once,” Ernie says. “The work with the school was important, and I wanted to give it my full attention.”

Today, Ernie oversees eight full-time drivers, two substitutes, and a fleet of 12 buses that collectively cover over 1,400 miles daily. From special education routes to activity buses, the logistics are complex—but Ernie handles them with precision. His photographic memory allows him to recall routes, addresses, and schedules with ease. “I can pop off the address of any student on our routes,” he says. “It’s like having a map in my head.”

The challenges of the job are significant. Recruiting and retaining drivers has become increasingly difficult, especially with the stringent federal requirements for licensing and training. Drivers must complete over 30 hours of training, pass a CDL test, and earn multiple endorsements—a process that deters many potential candidates. “It’s a lot of hoops to jump through,” Ernie admits. “But for the right person, it’s a rewarding job.”

Ernie highlights several benefits for those considering a career as a bus driver, including competitive starting pay, access to health insurance, and participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF). “It’s a great opportunity for semi-retired folks or anyone looking for meaningful work,” he says. “You’re out in the countryside, helping kids get to school—it’s a job that matters.”

Despite the hurdles, Ernie finds immense satisfaction in his work. “I love being close to home and seeing the kids grow up,” he says. “It’s rewarding to know you’re part of their daily lives.” His own children, both graduates of Mercer County Schools, are a testament to the district’s impact. His daughter was among the first graduates after the district’s consolidation, while his son completed all four years at Mercer County High School.

Beyond transportation, Ernie still gets his hands dirty with maintenance tasks, saving the district money by handling minor repairs and routine upkeep. While the district contracts out major maintenance and warranty work, Ernie’s skills as a mechanic remain invaluable. “If I can fix it here, I will,” he says. “It’s about doing what’s best for the district.”

Reflecting on his journey, Ernie emphasizes the supportive nature of the Mercer County community. “This is a place where people know each other and show up for one another,” he says. “I feel lucky to be part of that.”

As Ernie approaches retirement, he’s looking forward to a well-earned change of pace. His post-retirement plans include building a cabin on 14 acres he owns in northern Wisconsin, where he can reconnect with the land and enjoy the natural beauty that has always been close to his heart. “I’m planning to spend a lot of time up there,” he says with a smile. He also has the option of visiting his daughter, who lives in a large home in South Carolina, providing another peaceful retreat.

With his dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment, Ernie Dillie Jr. has become more than just a transportation supervisor—he’s a trusted presence who ensures that Mercer County students arrive safely, every single day. His story is a reminder that true leadership often happens behind the scenes—on early morning bus routes, in late-night repair sessions, and in the quiet dedication of someone who gives their all for others.