Top 40 Under 40 - 2010

Eric Hesse

Strategic Planning Analyst, Office of the General Manager

TriMet

Years in Transit: 4

The strategic planning analyst in the office of the general manager at TriMet in Portland, Ore., Eric Hesse coordinates annual updates of the agency’s rolling five-year Transit Investment Plan and also shares responsibility for developing and implementing the agency’s sustainability policy, metrics and analysis, and is an advisor to the general manager on local, state and federal transportation, climate, and energy policy. He was recognized for his contributions with a General Manager’s Award for Sustainability in 2008.

Both locally and nationally, he has taken leadership roles in his areas of expertise: sustainability (climate and energy) and performance measurement/management. Hesse serves as chair of the APTA Climate Change Standards Working Group since August 2009 (was previously vice chair from group’s inception in December 2007. He became chair of the newly formed APTA Sustainability Committee’s Technical Advisory/Peer Review Subcommittee on the APTA Sustainability Commitment.

Under Hesse’s leadership, the Climate Change Standards Working Group has successfully worked with The Climate Registry to ensure its reporting and verification protocols work for transit industry members. Hesse recently led CCWG efforts to work with The Climate Registry to develop a set of Transit Industry Performance Metrics, based on the work of CCWG in its Recommended Practice for Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Transit. 

“I am proud to be in the transit industry because it makes me feel like I’m working on providing solutions to a number of society’s key challenges. ... major demographic, economic and environmental changes that we are starting to experience now and will continue to face over the next several decades.”

Jennille Logan

Account Manager

ACS A Xerox Company

Years in Transit: 5

Jennille Logan has and continues to educate public and private communities on the importance of transit and the complexities that are involved in making it work. In her outreach efforts, she creates an awareness that lets communities know that they can contribute to transit in different ways.

Logan’s outreach effort doesn't stop with current industry professionals, she also works with visits local colleges and speaks to students o the importance of transit to help them when they are looking at post-college careers. Logan’s outreach efforts include secession planning as she assists in creating our next generation of transit/transportation professionals.

Logan professional affiliations are consistent with her passion for transit/transportation. She is a member of APTA and COMTO; and a very active member of the Hampton Roads Chapter of COMTO (COMTO-HR). She is the Hampton Roads Chapter Scholarship Golf Tournaments’ director. COMTO-HR in 2009 awarded five scholarships to very desiring students. Two of the scholarships were awarded to students in which Logan worked very closely.

“I am thankful that I have a career that allows me to help the community and assist agencies in making their decisions on how transit will form and change in their respective areas. Being in transit, it enables me to shape the future.”

Linton Johnson 

Chief Communications Officer

Bay Area Rapid Transit

Years in Transit: 7

As chief communications officer for BART, Linton Johnson sets an example for the industry and is often asked to advise agencies on best practices. In the past year alone Johnson has steered BART’s messaging through rougher waters than many agencies would face over decades.

He was at the podium and in the spotlight, at all hours of the day, through budget deficits, labor negotiations, an overhaul of Title VI/civil rights outreach and the tragic fatal shooting of an unarmed passenger by a now-former transit police officer. The shooting was filmed by passengers with camera phones and posted on the Internet.

As manager of BART’s Communications Department, Johnson has pioneered new ways to deliver messaging that position public transportation as more transparent than ever before. With the BARTtv video production unit that was Johnson’s brainchild, BART gives the public complete and unfiltered video of important news conferences and high-quality feature videos that show the friendly and fun side of riding BART.

In addition, Johnson developed a crisis communication system that alerts Bay Area media within minutes of a major incident with updates continuing at least every 15 minutes during any disruption. He also launched a system for live webcasting of BART board meetings.

As we pad around in pajamas at home, waiting on the first cup of coffee to kick in, we turn on the 5 a.m. news and see him bright-eyed and dapperly dressed as always, staying on message. He might catch a catnap on the office couch but he’ll be ready to go live again for 5 p.m. newscasts.

Ben Capelle

Director

Clermont Transportation Connection (CTC)

Years in Transit: 7

While a freshman at Kent State University Ben Capelle saw an advertisement on the inside of a bus that pictured a bus and said, “Can you handle this?”. He applied that day, was driving a bus a few days later and as he says, has never looked back.

Today he is the director of Clermont Transportation Connection (CTC) and has helped grow the system from 15 employees to 32 and from providing 35,000 trips annually with a budget of $1.1 million to providing 95,000 trips annually with an increased budget of $3 million. CTC will also begin construction of a new operations center in 2013.

Capelle has always supported green initiatives and led the acquisition of four hybrid buses in the county’s fleet. With the purchase of these buses, CTC will receive a 40 percent increase in fuel efficiency and has the capability to reduce maintenance costs and greenhouse gas emissions.

Keeping staff up-to-date on safety training and awareness has led to Capelle’s location awarded two safety awards this past April for its overall performance in safety. It received the Gold Safety award for zero lost-time injuries and the Bronze Safety award for the lowest bus service collision rate in their size category. Also, at the annual Ohio Public Transit Association conference in May, CTC was presented with a marketing award for “Marketing on a Shoestring.”

“I love being able to have a measurable impact on people’s quality of life and the quality of our environment. I also enjoy that, for the most part public transit is very open to new ideas and new ways of thinking.”

Brad Underwood

Executive Director

Texoma Area Paratransit System (TAPS)

Years in transit: 3

As chairman of the board in 2007 for Texoma Area Paratransit System (TAPS), Brad Underwood took swift action to correct the budget, replace key leadership roles and actively engage the local community to turn TAPS’ 7-figure deficit to a surplus in just 11 months. TAPS’ struggle and now success has been documented as a test case by the state of Texas.

Through a series of events and successes, the board unanimously appointed Underwood as their executive director. Underwood began a full customer feedback program where he rewards drivers and boosts ridership and ridership since his appointment has increased 43 percent since last year.

Underwood has also designed and implemented a full-scale training program for TAPS’ staff. TAPS employs more than 125 employees and all must take part in weekly training, as well as one three-hour continuing education course per month. 

In May of 2009, Underwood began to plan a fixed-route to service students attending a local junior college and the service is projected to perform more than 45,000 trips this year alone.

Underwood serves on a seven-member transit leadership board for the state of Texas, serves as the mayor-protem for the city of Bonham, board of directors for Grayson County College, and active in many other local organizations. He also is a recent graduate of the ENO Foundation for leadership.

“I like knowing that TAPS and I are making a difference in the lives of the people in our community. Each day as a staff we get better and better and I rest in the fact we can improve our area through enriching their lives.”

Brian J. Hadley

Director, Commuter Operations

Herzog Transit Services Inc.

Years in transit: 16

Brian Hadley was hired with Herzog Transit Services Inc. to help implement the Capital Metro (Austin, Texas) commuter rail system. The previous contractor had held Austin at bay for more than three years with no service in sight. Hadley came in and together with his team in just 78 days, all FRA issues were resolved and revenue service running.

Hadley started out working summers during college on a Sperry Rail car and as a conductor/engineer for Louisiana & Delta Railroad. He put in 13 years as a trainman, engineer, remote control instructor/team leader and finally as a manager operating practices for the Union Pacific RR. He became regional safety manager for Watco Companies before hiring on with Herzog in order to get Austin's Stadler DMU’s up and running.

Hadley grew up in south Louisiana and is a huge LSU and New Orleans Saints fan.

Brian Hadley’s favorite quote is, “Failure is not an option.”

“It best describes the drive and ambition I have and will continue to demonstrate throughout my railroad/transit career.”

Brian Litchfield

Assistant Director

Chapel Hill Transit

Years in Transit: 10

Brian Litchfield’s career includes time as a community planner with the Siouxland Interstate Metropolitan Planning Council in Sioux City, Iowa, chief development officer for the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority and now assistant transit director in Chapel Hill, N.C.

In October, 2007, Litchfield played a key role in the planning and implementation of Sunday bus service in the Greater Des Moines region. Not only the largest expansion of new bus service in the region in more than 30 years, it was the first major service enhancement resulting from the regional transit initiative that created the regional transit authority.

In April 2008 he played a key role in planning and implementation of a free downtown shuttle —
 a partnership between the city of Des Moines, the state of Iowa, the Downtown Community Alliance and DART.

In Chapel Hill, Litchfield is a key manager in the second largest transit system in North Carolina, with a 125-vehicle fleet that carries 35,000 daily riders in Chapel Hill, Carrboro and the University of North Carolina. 

Litchfield’s reorganization of the customer service department coupled with communication with key partners at the university has resulted in a strong working relationship and high marks for customer satisfaction.
He recently participated in the Leadership Chapel Hill Program offered by the Chapel Hill Carrboro Chamber of commerce and the ENO Foundation transit seminar series in the summer of 2010.

“I have a number of hobbies, but really enjoy visiting new places, especially when there is a transit system to explore. Luckily my wife indulges me and usually joins in the adventure.”

Chinaza M Duson

Human Resource Officer

Metropolitan Atlanta Transit Consultants

Years in Transit: 10

In her current capacity as a human resource officer with the Metropolitan Atlanta Transit Consultants (MATC) Team (MARTA’s general engineering contractor), Chinaza Duson has demonstrated an unsurpassed level of commitment to her profession, the client and the Joint Venture that make up MATC (PBSJ, AECOM and WRJ). As a member of the senior management team, Duson has increased the organization's presence in the community by implementing an aggressive internship program and a co-op program with various schools, including Southern Polytechnic University and Georgia Tech.

Duson has also implemented a job shadowing program that hosts three select Atlanta charter and public schools on an annual basis. The program reaches 60 students with diverse career interests and provides in-depth exposure to the transit industry and the field of engineering by affording them an opportunity to spend a day shadowing transit professionals, helping to support the future transit workforce.

Duson remains instrumental in creating multiple financial and operating efficiencies for the MATC program office and MARTA in support of multiple cost containment initiatives during what has been a challenging fiscal period. She also serves as EEO officer and has made a special effort to maintain diversity goals. Duson is actively involved in industry organizations such as WTS, COMTO, NFBPA and APTA.

Duson loves Audrey Hepburn, and in her spare time changes her hair with different wigs and dresses up in character.

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Christin Wegener

Senior Operations Planner

Fairfax County Department of Transportation

Years in Transit: 6

As the lead service planner for the Fairfax Connector bus system, Christy Wegener has led two very successful large-scale service changes, as well as participated in numerous meetings and outreach activities in the development of the county’s first comprehensive transit development plan.

From spring 2007 through June of 2009, she successfully led a diverse group of FCDOT staff in the analysis, planning, scheduling and implementation of the Centreville-Chantilly-Oakton (CCO) service plan. This plan added 46,000 annual revenue hours of service and transitioned existing service operated by another provider in western Fairfax County. The new service levels, modified bus route alignments, new schedules and reconfigured transit network in western Fairfax County has shown an increase in ridership of more than 20 percent.

In fall of 2009, Wegener successfully implemented revisions to the Reston Internal Bus System (RIBS) through a robust public participation process. She coordinated and presented service options at several public meetings, which resulted in a community consensus and her recommendations adopted and implemented in early 2010.

Currently, Wegener has taken on to two new projects: developing the Fairfax Connector service plans for the Dulles Rail Project and developing the service adjustments associated with the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) project. She was recently promoted to the chief of the Fairfax Connector Section and also was the recipient of a Fairfax County Outstanding Performance Award in July 2010.

“I enjoy working in the public transit industry because I am helping to provide a service that has an economic, environmental and social impact on communities. I have always believed in leaving the world just a little better than how I found it.”

Colin Groth

Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA)

Government Relations Director

Years in Transit: 5

Colin Groth joined SORTA right after graduating from the Ohio State University, and in a short period of time has risen to the position of government relations director due to his commitment, professionalism and ability to work within the varied political environments of local, regional and national governments. Groth has been SORTA’s point person for its advocacy efforts, regularly visiting elected officials at both the state and federal levels, and was instrumental in securing more than $17 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding for SORTA.

Groth is now in the process of securing funding for a number of new initiatives, including the development of an inter-modal transit center in Uptown, Cincinnati’s second largest employment center. This facility is the first in a series of long term capital investments that will realign public transportation to better meet the community’s needs while enhancing Cincinnati’s competitiveness in a global economy. Groth is very active in the community and is now participating in the C-Change young professional leadership development program sponsored by the local Chamber of Commerce as well as serving with the Agenda 360, a regional future-shaping task force, on the transportation subcommittee. He represents the kind of dynamic, engaged and forward-thinking individuals that will help solidify public transit's role in our nation's future.

"I tell people that I’m in the Cincinnati business and I truly believe that. I’m excited to wake up every day with the opportunity to work on transformative projects like securing funding for SORTA’s regional transit hub network, partnering with the city of Cincinnati on the  city streetcar or even completing a simple neighborhood streetscape."

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Corey W. Hill

Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation

Chief of Public Transportation

Years in Transit: 15

The Chief of Public Transportation for the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT), Corey Hill joined DRPT in December 1997 after spending three years working for the Virginia Railway Express (VRE). While at DRPT, he has held a number of positions including acting director. He currently leads DRPT’s public transportation division, which is responsible for providing planning, technical and financial assistance to more than 300 transit providers, health and human service agencies, transportation demand management agencies, planning organizations and private employers across the state. His division is responsible for oversight of over 1000 grants through 16 federal and state programs worth approximately $850 million dollars.

Hill developed five new transit systems since becoming chief of public transportation and has advanced some of the largest projects in Virginia’s history, including the $5.5 billion dollar Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project. He has also successfully completed $60 million worth of planning studies.

His involvement in the broader transit industry includes being active with the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). He is a graduate of Leadership APTA in 2009 and serves on the APTA State Affairs Committee.

Hill holds a Bachelor of Science degree from James Madison University and a Master of Public Administration degree from George Mason University.

Mr. Hill is an avid scuba diver.  He has had many close encounters around the world with some of the oceans’ most fascinating creatures including: humpback whales, sharks, moray eels, octopuses, sea turtles, and lionfish.

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Guillermo Leiva

Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA)

Assistant Director for Parking Services

Years in Transit: 12

Over the past 12 years, Guillermo Leiva has helped introduce rail crossing and red light automated enforcement throughout Northern California and the Washington, D.C., region, introduce digital parking meters in the District of Columbia and has helped dozens of universities, hospitals and local governments find solutions to their transportation problems.

Because of this commitment to improving transportation through technology and his experience in all facets of the parking industry Leiva was chosen from a pool of hundreds of candidates to head Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s (MBTA) Parking Services in 2009.

Since then Leiva has been responsible for improving the first impression of 9 million transit riders. He has proven to be a champion for expense neutral improvements and parking system infrastructure modernization with the goal of a fully ADA compliant ITS ATMS 17 architecture.

To realize this goal Leiva has successfully worked to reduce incorrect transactions at the MBTA’s testbed for EZ PASS payment of parking from 11 percent to less than 1 percent. In addition, Leiva has guided the MBTA to successfully design, procure and is in the process of implementingimplement the nation’s firstlargest (23,733 spaces) and only fully ADA compliant pay by mobile phone program.

“Leiva was born into a parking family. His maternal grandmother at one time controlled most valet parking operations in LA’s trendy Melrose Ave. This fact proved more powerful than his training in Aeronautical Engineering when hired, right out of college, by Lockheed Martin.”

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Helder Cavalheiro

Metrolinx - GO Transit

Bus Operations Performance Advisor

Years in Transit: 14

Helder Cavalheiro’s 14-year transit career began at the age of 18 as a bus conditioner for the former Orion Bus Industries, now Daimler Bus North America (DBNA).

Eventually, as the contracts administrator at DBNA, Cavalheiro managed the purchases of some of North America’s largest transit authorities. He was part of a team tasked with implementing business and manufacturing processes from EvoBus in Germany to the DBNA work force. Cavalheiro has also volunteered his time to ISO 9001 standards — auditing and revising procedures and work instructions.

Cavalheiro moved from the private to public sector as the performance advisor for GO Transit’s Bus Operations. He recently developed and maintains the GO Transit bus analysis statistical system, which, at the touch of a button, provides directors and managers with a one-stop location for bus operation statistics. With the Google trip planner being launched by GO Transit, Cavalheiro created an in-house schedule adherence database to assist in extracting trip specific bus stop times in a more expedient fashion

Cavalheiro is a “go-to” person when someone within Bus Operations requires a manual process to be updated into electronic mode to improve efficiency, accuracy and overall costs. His continued quest to simplify data management has proven him to be a valuable asset to not only his department but also the agency.

Helder stays active by playing ice hockey and is a member of the GO Transit hockey team, which this April participated in the Bi-Annual National Transit Tournament in Edmonton. He volunteers his time and effort in raising funds to help support the team.

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Jarrett Stoltzfus

Federal Transit Administration

Professional Capacity Building Program Manager

Years in Transit: 3

Jarrett Stoltzfus, while technically a relatively junior staff member at FTA, has established himself as one of the most knowledgeable persons in the administration when it comes to the “in and outs” of public transit. Stoltzfus astounds coworkers with his grasp of issues and problems facing public transit and his innovative solutions to overcoming them. His strong work ethic and intrinsic motivation are evidenced even further by the meticulous detail he puts into his work product.

As the newly appointed program manager for FTA’s Professional Capacity Building Program within the Office of Research, Demonstration and Innovation, Stoltzfus has devised several innovative ideas to deliver comprehensive workforce development training to the transit industry. He also oversees all workforce development programs within the Research Office. In addition, Stoltzfus oversees the Title III University Transportation Centers (UTC) program within the Research Office. Under his guidance a new and healthy working relationship has been established with all UTCs in order to greater leverage available funds as well as the considerable intellect of academia for transit-related research.

“The chance for a younger professional like me to be part of the transformative changes now undergoing our industry is really exciting, and I always encourage many of my peers outside transit to join us."

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Jason Miller

Executive Director

Mountain Rides Transportation Authority

Years in transit: 10

Jason Miller got started in transportation accidentally when he started a weekend business taking clients skiing and rafting in Colorado in 1996. He realized he enjoyed the passenger transportation business and focused on building a high-quality shuttle and charter company. After selling his business in 2001, he and his wife moved to Idaho, where he made the transition from private to public transit.

Formerly as executive director of Wood River Rideshare and currently as executive director of Mountain Rides, Miller has been leading public transportation efforts in the Sun Valley area of Idaho. He has been instrumental in creating and growing a regional, multi-modal transportation organization for south central Idaho, including leading the implementation of a new strategic direction for Mountain Rides that focuses on developing new routes and services, seamless integration of transportation modes, greater resource efficiencies and building key partnerships.

Miller has been able to convince local municipalities to contribute taxpayer funding to Mountain Rides’ services in a state that does not have a dedicated funding source for public transit. He has written numerous grants to federal agencies and received one of the largest transit stimulus funding grants in Idaho. 

A dedicated cyclist and user of public transportation, Miller lives with his wife, Suzanne, and two kids, Hayden and Claire, and enjoys all that the Sun Valley area has to offer.

“My seven-year-old daughter is already indoctrinated in the importance of public transportation, regularly giving me a guilt trip if we drive instead of walking, biking or taking the bus.”

Jhenifer Pabillano

TransLink

Online Communications Advisor

Years in Transit: 2

Since coming to TransLink in January 2008, Jhenifer Pabillano has helped the organization leap into the online realm and engage with customers through social media, revitalizing Vancouver transit’s long-running Buzzer newsletter.

Originally launched in 1916, the Buzzer was in danger of falling into obscurity, but within a matter of months, Pabillano’s work as editor was generating fan mail. Then in October 2008, she launched the Buzzer blog, the online counterpart of the newsletter and one of the first transit agency blogs in North America.

The blog provides news and quirky stories about Lower Mainland (Vancouver) transportation that couldn’t be found elsewhere, and has been lauded by many for its open, frank two-way conversations with customers, including L.A. Metro’s social media team which recently named it one of the top transit agency blogs online.

Outside of the blog, Jhenifer has been key in developing a strong online strategy for TransLink—helping its communications team organize through one central TransLink Twitter account, building and supporting online public consultation initiatives, and training other staff on how to communicate effectively online.

“I might have the best job ever — sometimes I can’t believe I’m paid to write transit stories for our riders!”

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Joseph Comerford

Executive Director

Estuary Transit District/ First Transit Inc.

Years in Transit: 13

Joseph Comerford began his transit career while still an undergraduate at the University of Connecticut where he worked his way up through the campus bus operation, starting as a driver and eventually serving as assistant manager of operations with responsibility for more than 100 employees.

Following graduation, he was hired by First Transit and was eventually sent to Monroe to fill in as an interim general manager, but city officials were so impressed by his performance that he was asked to stay on. During his five years there, Comerford administered a $3 million annual budget, received the FTA’s Annual Award for Enhancing Ridership for increasing ridership by 75 percent, introduced new scheduling software to reduce paratransit operating costs by 30 percent, and implemented safety programs that resulted in an 18 percent reduction in accident liability insurance premiums.

In 2008, Comerford returned to Connecticut with First Transit as executive director for the Estuary Transit District. His accomplishments over the past 15 months include developing a comprehensive operations policy, launching new express service, implementing a $712,000 package of economic stimulus projects and ridership has grown 18 percent over the previous year.

Comerford was active in the Louisiana Transit Association and had been elected to the board of the Southwest Transit Association at the time he left for Estuary Transit. In Connecticut he is active in both the statewide and regional transit associations.

“I enjoy hearing the stories of our passengers who would not be able to get to work or medical appointments without our services. Talking to them reminds me how large of an impact our industry has on people’s lives.”

Kate Mattice

Federal Transit Administration

Director of Policy Review and Development

Years in Transit: 9

A nine-year FTA veteran, Kate Mattice has been promoted twice during that period and risen to the top staff grade level. Mattice serves as director of the Office of Policy Review and Development where she supervises six professional staff. Her specialists address policy issues ranging from transit finance, to transit benefits, sustainability, affordability, livability and transit-oriented development. Mattice works closely with the chief financial officer and the Office of Congressional Affairs to keep FTA’s executive management team on top of policy issues on Capitol Hill and at numerous stakeholder groups. Many statements made by the FTA administrator and other senior executives start out as talking points composed by Mattice and her staff.

Mattice’s accomplishments include helping to write parts of SAFETEA-LU while on detail to the Senate Banking committee and leading FTA’s efforts to implement the legislation after it passed. She created FTA’s policy council structure, where staff members develop issues and options for presentation to the executive team, to facilitate agency decision-making. She is currently leading FTA’s reauthorization efforts for the next transportation bill and plays a key role in the DOT-HUD-EPA Sustainable Communities Partnership. She also manages the substantial multi-office FTA livability initiative.

"As a fan of environment and social policy efforts, there's nothing better than landing in a career field that's all about helping communities across the country create a better quality of life for all people."

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Ken Cummins

Sound Transit

Chief Security Officer

Years in Transit: 5

Since 2005 Ken Cummins has tried to lead by example at Sound Transit as its chief security officer. During this time he even spent a year deployed in Iraq with the National Guard.

Cummins time at Sound Transit has seen the creation and contracting of the Sound Transit Police, a contracted unit of the King County Sherriff’s Office and using a contracted guard force in non-traditional roles such as fare enforcement and customer service.

He has also improved a complete policy and procedures methodology through innovation and technology using security process optimization strategies, deploying and refining SharePoint, InfoPath and CESI tools to improve Sound Transit’s business needs.  Cummins also set about creating a best in class CCTV security program that augmented and force multiplied his ability to respond to passenger and customer needs.

He is part of APTA’s Infrastructure Security Working Group and recently spoke at the international tunnel safety and security conference in Germany.

Ken is known for being equally at home working with agency executives and board members on security policies and working with transit riders one-on-one. He is unflappable, whether helping riders pay fares or in sensitive situations such as recently helping one customer dispel fears the agency is part of covert plot involving the CIA. Outside of work, Ken’s previously well-guarded secret is that he is addicted to the game World of Warcraft.

“There’s usually plenty of stimulation that comes with managing security for a major transit system. Let’s just say boredom is not a problem, and I get a lot of satisfaction out of the teamwork that is part of making riders feel safe and secure.”

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Kim Ulibarri

Utah Transit Authority

Manager of Labor Relations and Performance

Years in Transit: 13

Kim Ulibarri started working at Utah Transit Authority (UTA) in 1997 as a human resources intern while working on a master of public administration degree. She left UTA in 2002 to work as the manager of human resources for the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART). She returned to UTA in 2007, where she currently works as the manager of labor relations and performance.

Ulibarri is known for her expertise in labor relations and human resource management as well as personality traits like enthusiasm, persistence and drive. She also possesses extraordinary communication, analytical and team-building skills. These skills have aided her in many complicated, long-term projects.

Perhaps one of the most challenging projects was when Ulibarri was the lead negotiator in the 2009 labor negotiations with the local transit union. This negotiation process was particularly difficult due to the economic situation. Her preparations and execution were invaluable in leading the negotiating team through a challenging negotiation process.  Ulibarri and her team worked to communicate effectively, to listen and understand employee concern, and to achieve the financial and operational goals outlined by the Board of Trustees.

Ulibarri has participated in Leadership APTA and the Transit Labor Exchange. From her beginnings as a human resources intern, Ulibarri’s persistence and hard work have helped her become a leader in her field.

“Kim enjoys spending time with her family and having fun outdoors.  She loves water activities including skiing, scuba diving, and hanging out at the beach.  She is looking forward to hiking this summer with her husband and two sons.”

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Kyle Curtis

Creative Director

R&R Partners

Years in Transit: 10

Kyle Curtis was described by a coworker as one part creative dude and one part market research geek for his position as creative director at R&R Partners, an advertising communications firm that specializes in transit marketing.

His transit experience includes creating and shaping the brands of the Utah Transit Authority, Orange County Transportation Authority and Valley Metro in Phoenix, Ariz. He as also played He has also played a vital role in R&R Partners' perfect 6-0 record in winning transit referenda, including such places as Salt Lake City, Charlotte, Honolulu and most recently in St. Louis.

Curtis is well known as one of the top transit marketing experts, and he has made many presentations at transit association conferences. His work has won numerous transit marketing awards. Included in his long list of accolades are three Grand AdWheel Awards from the American Public Transportation Association (APTA); numerous ad industry creative awards, including the One Show annual and a national ADDY, presented by the American Advertising Federation. In addition to his transit creative genius, he has gained national acclaim for his work on the Las Vegas “What happens here, stays here” campaign, which was recognized on TBS’s “World’s Funniest Commercials” special last December.

“I started my career working on the Foot Locker account. I feel better about spending my energies encouraging people to buy transit passes than I do encouraging them to buy $120 sneakers. Not that there’s anything wrong with $120 sneakers. In fact, they help maximize your athletic performance. And they look cool. With all the money you save by riding transit, you could buy a pair. (I’m loyal to all my clients.) 

LaShawn Gillespie

Foothill Transit

Director of Planning

Years in Transit: 5

LaShawn Gillespie started at Foothill Transit as the director of procurement, organizing and executing the agency's multiple detailed and complicated capital procurements and projects, including the very intense contracting process for both its Arcadia and Pomona operations yards. In a very short time she moved into the heart of Foothill Transit's mission by accepting the position of director of planning. Her in depth understanding of communications and perception, as well as her attention to detail and understanding of operations needs, allowed her to effectively collaborate with multiple departments to streamline one of the regions' largest transit systems.

Within Gillespie’s first year as head of the planning department, she participated in the International Transit Studies Mission through the Transportation Cooperative Research Program and traveled to Australia to study the benefits and challenges of infrastructure and the service it supports. She has since participated in APTA's Leadership program, the Eno Foundation's Eno Transit Executive Seminar, and has represented the agency nationwide at a variety of venues.

In the five years since entering into the transit industry, Gillespie has proven herself repeatedly as an exemplary transportation professional with both her heart and mind, serving her region and adding new ideas and fresh thinking to her agency and industry.

“I’m in the enviable position of being able to help make our communities better places to live by enhancing mobility and improving the air we breathe. I get to introduce people to a world of mobility choices.  And that is incredibly satisfying.”

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Lauren Rudman

Greater Cleveland RTA

HR Performance Specialist

Years in Transit: 4

Lauren Rudman joined the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) in June 2006 as a human resources (HR) assistant. In this role, she was responsible for the recruitment and talent management of all bargaining unit employees.

Rudman’s enthusiasm and skill set allowed her to be selected to participate in the RTA’s first Management Development Program (MDP) in May 2008. The MDP is a 22-month program designed to develop cross-business expertise across the organization. She was a founding member of the RTA’s Future Leaders Club (FLC) with assistance from her colleagues in the MDP. The mission of FLC is to provide professional development, career guidance, and networking to emerging leaders within RTA.

After graduating from the MDP in February 2010, Rudman returned to the HR division as HR performance specialist. In this role, she supervises five HR business partners as they perform generalist duties across RTA.

Rudman serves on the board of the Cleveland Society for HR Management, is co-chair of the Malachi House Associate Board and a member of the HR Committee and Volunteer Engagement Committee for the Susan G. Komen Northeast Ohio Affiliate. Lauren is also a member of APTA’s HR Committee and Workforce Development Subcommittee, where she has made many significant contributions.

“I love working in public transit. I gain personal satisfaction from knowing that we affect the lives of thousands of people every day.”

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LJ Weslowski

General Manager

Concord Kannapolis Area Transit (Rider)/Veolia Transportation

Years in Transit: 16

Starting his transit career in the Army National Guard driving trucks, LJ Weslowski received a jumpstart into public transportation in 1994 driving buses for UMass Transit while attending classes at the UMass, Amherst campus. Rising through the ranks at UMass Transit while working as a Bus Operator, Dispatcher, Paratransit Operator, and CDL Trainer, Weslowski eventually became Operations Supervisor in the student staff program. After graduation, he was recruited by ATC (now Veolia) to become the Director of Operations for Fixed Route for GTA in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Shortly after arriving in Greensboro, he was asked if he would be interested in being the General Manager for a new start-up transit system located in Concord, North Carolina. Weslowski jumped at the opportunity and soon oversaw every aspect of the development of Concord's transit system. Doing everything from trailblazing new bus routes, marking bus spots, scouting locations for the future garage and offices, selecting contractors & vendors, to hiring staff and bus operators, Weslowski even coordinated the uniforms and painted and tiled the drivers' room himself!

Today, Concord Kannapolis Area Transit, aptly named 'Rider', is a thriving small urban fixed route operation known for their use of cutting edge technology, excellent safety record and outstanding customer service. Rider is currently excited to unveil their new downtown transportation center this coming fall, thanks in part to Weslowski's hard work, tenacity, and get-it-done attitude!

In addition to daily operational responsibilities at Rider, Weslowski has also been an actively involved in the North Carolina Public Transportation Association since 2004. He served as NCPTA Secretary from 2008-2010, has been a member of the Roadeo, Conference, Conference Relocation, Training and Executive Committees, and currently serves as a Board member.

“A lifelong New England sports fan (Go Red Sox/Celtics/Patriots/Bruins!) and award winning photographer, L.J. and his wonderful wife Beverly enjoy movies, traveling and time with family.”  

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Lloyd Williams

Assistant Director of Operations

Sun Metro/First Transit

Years in Transit: 4

Arriving at El Paso’s Sun Metro in 2007, First Transit’s Lloyd Williams faced an agency that was “an embarrassment to the city” according to its mayor. Williams immersed himself in helping transform Sun Metro from an embarrassment to recognized as the 2008 Outstanding Metropolitan System by the Texas Transit Association and rebuilding the transit department’s public image.

As the assistant director of operations for Sun Metro, Lloyd Williams is responsible for managing a $20 million budget and directing a critical workforce of more than 360 employees. He also provides direction and leadership in the evaluation of route efficiencies and effectiveness to meet the needs of the El Paso community and has helped improve Sun Metro’s on-time performance from 79 percent to 96 percent.

A critical member of the executive management team, Williams is helping the system launch a bus rapid transit system, oversee a capital improvement plan that includes building of four new transit terminals and increase service.

Despite his relatively short time in transit, Williams brings a sense of passion and dedication to the job that propels the system to great things.

Before joining Sun Metro, Williams worked as the assistant general manager of operations for El Metro in Laredo, Texas, and previous to that he was the general manager for Southwest Charter Lines/Southwest Equipment Solutions in El Paso.

“Coming back to El Paso and being able to make a real difference in my hometown has been a huge and humbling experience. I owe this award to some amazing mentors in my career: Tim Omick, Jay Banasiak, Frank Tobey and Lynly Leeper.”

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Lorenzo Reffreger

Vice President, Sales & Marketing

AnsaldoBreda

Years in transit: 10

After earning his law degree, Lorenzo Reffreger entered the transit business and has held positions in sales, marketing, bids and proposals, procurement, sourcing and general management throughout the world. He enjoys working in an industry that has a real and immediate impact in the community it serves.

He has been a tranist professional for more than 10 years with a diverse background and with extensive international experience having worked in two different continents with responsibilities in Europe, Middle East, South and North America.

Reffreger has successfully developed and penetrated business opportunities in previously untapped markets. He has also succesfully developed, negotiated and obtained contracts totaling more than $60M in the past two years.

Reffreger has held different positions with two major rail car builders; Alstom Transport and AnsaldoBreda in Mexico City, Paris, Madrid, Chicago and San Francisco. Currently he serves as Vice President of Sales and Marketing for AnsaldoBreda.

Reffreger is a member of the APTA Business Members Procurement and Business Development Committees. He is passionate and committed to transit as a “vehicle” to improve communities, connect people, provide affordable means of transportation for low-income families, improve the livabilty of cities and towns, and create productive economic impact.

“I would like to see more commitment, more funding, more awareness by the general public of its [transit] benefits and how it improves their communities. More trains!”

Michael Parker

Managing Director

Jeffrey Parker & Associates

Years in Transit: 8 

Mike Parker serves as managing director and CEO of Jeffrey Parker & Associates (JPA). Since joining the firm in 2002, Parker has helped guide its more than eight-fold growth as a key advisor to public agencies on business, finance and public private partnerships on mega projects in the transportation sector.  

Parker got his start in the transit industry in 2001 when his father, JPA founder and president, Jeff Parker, identified a potential opportunity to finance and deliver a turnkey light rail system on 42nd Street in Manhattan. Mike began working on the side to assist, and while the project ultimately stalled, both father and son enjoyed working with each other and made a pact to build and grow a team together.

Parker and JPA assisted the state of Florida in conceiving, structuring, procuring and closing the first availability payment based public-private partnerships in the United States, representing more than $2.5 billion in new, privately funded infrastructure. The commercial terms and value for money analysis underlying these Florida PPP contracts are serving as national models.
Parker is also deeply involved in helping to advance the field. He and JPA assisted American Public Transit Association (APTA) in documenting the effects of the financial crisis on transit agencies and he shares his time as a speaker and panelist on innovative finance and project delivery for organizations such as the Transportation Research Board, APTA, AASHTO and IBTTA. He earned a BA from the University of Pennsylvania and an MBA from its Wharton School of Business.

Mike enjoys spending time with his wife and their two children, ages 4 and 6, finding the right balance between a rewarding career and family. JPA mirrors these values by full benefits packages, including 100 percent healthcare, flexible work schedules, virtual commuting opportunities, and maternity and paternity leave.

Michael Whitten

Executive Director

Manchester Transit Authority

First Transit

Years in transit: 10

Michael Whitten developed his passion for a career in transit management while a student at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst where he was hired and trained as a bus driver. Within a week he knew this was the industry he wanted to be a part of. Working for the UMass Transit Services department, he served in various positions of increasing responsibility from bus operator to trainer to dispatcher to supervisor and finally to training supervisor. In 2007, Whitten joined First Transit where his first assignment was operations planning manager with the Manchester Transit Authority (MTA).

In 2009, Whitten was promoted to assistant executive director with responsibility for day-to-day operations. In January, 2010, when the executive director position became unexpectedly vacant, Whitten served as acting executive director.

Whitten also negotiated a new long-term contract with the Manchester School District for continued operation of school bus service throughout the city. In February, 2010, the MTA board of directors voted unanimously to promote Whitten to be the full-time executive director. Whitten oversees a staff of more than 130 and administers an annual operating budget of $6.5 million.

Whitten was recently elected to be the New Hampshire representative on the board of cirectors for the NorthEast Passenger Transportation Association (NEPTA).

“When looking at the future of public transportation, I see a lot of opportunity not just for growth but for smart growth. The transportation industry has a responsibility to ensure we are delivering the highest quality of service possible while being mindful of the fiscal responsibility we bear as stewards of our communities tax dollars.”

Paul Dean

Director of Government Relations

American Public Transportation Association

Years in transit: 15

Paul Dean represents the public transportation industry on Capitol Hill as the director of Governmental Relations for APTA since 2007, serving as the organization’s chief federal lobbyist, working directly with Congress and the Administration to advance APTA members’ legislative and regulatory priorities. He oversees and implements strategies to advance APTA’s goals in a variety of transportation-related issue areas, including the federal budget, homeland security, energy and climate change policy, federal infrastructure investment, and the authorization of federal surface transportation programs.

Prior to joining APTA, Dean had 12 years of transportation-related professional experience in the private sector and on Capitol Hill. He worked nine years as a contract lobbyist for Baker & Daniels, a Washington-based law and government relations consulting firm. His clients included public transportation agencies, cities, non-profit transportation providers, and other local and regional government agencies. His accomplishments included securing millions of dollars in discretionary authorizations and appropriations for large and small-scale transportation initiatives. In addition, Dean worked with Congress and the Administration to enact several important legislative and regulatory provisions to benefit his clients during the development and implementation o f the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act — A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU).

“I really enjoy working directly with Congress and the Administration on behalf of the transit industry. Although it can be frustrating at times, after more than a decade in the industry I still get a thrill from going up to Capitol Hill and participating in the democratic process.”

Robb Howell

General Manager

Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission (PRTC)

First Transit

Years in transit: 10

An avid rider of transit when he was young, Robb Howell was interested in route design and scheduling aspects. When a driving position was advertised during a summer break, he applied for a short-term summer job but ended up finding a career.

Prior to his time with the PRTC, Howell worked for Montgomery County Ride-On in Maryland as the assistant general Manager. In this position, he managed the day-to-day operations of 110 vehicles with direct oversight of 150 bus operators.

Currently, Howell ensures his operation’s performance requirements are met and contract compliance is maintained. He has successfully reduced the rate of complaints by 10 percent each year. The extensive training his operators undergo has assisted in a decrease in total collisions by more than 50 percent under his leadership. Howell has lead successful labor negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement for maintenance employees as well as two renewal agreements for operators.

Each year Howell has contributed to the industry; he has accumulated recognitions, including Rookie Manager of the Year for Outstanding Operational Performance, the Most Improved Employee Safety Award – West Region, Most Improved Vehicle Safety Award – West Region, and the 2010 Most Improved Vehicle Safety Award – East Region Large Property to name a few. He was also recognized for reducing turn-over to less than 8 percent during his tenure at PRTC.

“I find that this industry is continuously interesting and rarely provides a dull moment. The dynamics of the industry, the diversity of the workforce, and the constant push for developments in technology and strategy make this field very exciting.”

Robin Hutcheson, AICP

Associate & Senior Project Manager

Fehy & Peers

Years in Transit: 13

After spending time living and working in Europe for a specialized transit planning firm with an international approach, Robin Hutcheson has been inspired as to what is possible here in the United States.

In her position with Fehr & Peers, Hutcheson has clearly demonstrated herself to be a successful leader, as evidenced by her role in the success of the Salt Lake City, Utah, office and in her role as deputy leader of its national transit discipline group. She also founded the first WTS Utah chapter and serving as its inaugural president.

Hutcheson’s transit, transportation and land-use projects require creative approaches to problem solving, leadership among differing viewpoints, and a collaborative approach to decision-making. Typical projects include a strong link between transit, land use, multimodal travel and sustainability.

She has been involved in a wide array of projects, including the Sugar House Streetcar Alternatives Analysis and Environmental Assessment and the Salt Lake City Downtown Streetcar Feasibility Study in Utah; the Market Study for Tram Alternative Propulsion, Project for the European Union Commission on Sustainability; and the London Trams Vehicle Study and Glasgow Ticketing Strategy in the UK.

Hutcheson has contributed to the industry through technical papers and presentations for the Utah League of Cities and Towns, the National Scenic Byways, the Transportation Research Board, the Utah Chapter of the American Planning Association and the Institute of Transportation Engineers.

“Public transit improves communities, social connections, air, health and quality of life. I really enjoy the diversity of the industry and I spend equal time on technical analysis, communication of ideas, and helping our clients make good decisions.”

Ryan Loomis

Road Supervisor

Associated Students of the University of Montana

Years in transit: 6

Starting out as a driver, Ryan Loomis realized he loved to drive and became a “bus geek.” The passion of the director, Nancy Wilson, helped him understand what transit offers a community. Becoming involved with the ASUM Transportation Board and attending and networking at APTA’s University Communities Conference really sparked his interest in the industry and have led him to where he is today.

Since 2004 Loomis has been training drivers and helping train drivers, no easy task when employing all student drivers, as there is a very high employee turnover rate and in turn, a very high number of new trainees. He has an amazing record of getting drivers licensed their first time through testing and the organization’s accident rate is very low.

For a smaller system with a smaller staff, he’s flexible in rearranging his own schedule to drive a bus himself when necessary, or working on the vehicles himself. He has become an extremely qualified mechanic is capable of overseeing the operations and maintenance of the vehicles.

By being on the ASUM Transportation board, Loomis has been instrumental in getting transit fees increased so that service can be expanded.

In part, because of Loomis’ hard work, this transit system has grown from a small system giving 183,372 rides in 2004 to almost 375,000 rides this academic year.

“The people I get to work with keep my job fun and interesting and we work hard to keep our system successful. Whether I am in the office or out on the road, there is always something new to deal with.”

Ryan Minges

Director of Transit Solutions

First Transit Inc.

Years in Transit: 9

Ryan Minges is the current director of transit solutions for First Transit in Cincinnati, Ohio. He began his career in transportation as the assistant project manager for First Transit’s Bus Line Inspection service. In this position, he assisted with daily management and oversight of bus line inspection contracts, consisting of more than 143 projects totaling more than 2,900 transit vehicles.

Throughout his career, it has never taken long for Minges to make an impact in either the industry or his department. Within three years of his start as an assistant project manager, he was promoted to project manager. He quickly propelled up the corporate ladder to director of transit solutions for First Transit, overseeing operator monitoring and bus line inspection projects throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, Northern Ireland, England, Scotland and Hungary. Over the last four years, he has increased the number of yearly bus inspection projects by 120 percent, as well as the number of buses inspected by 40 percent.

Currently, Minges is responsible for the overall management and performance of hundreds of bus line inspections, operator monitoring and consulting projects throughout the nation. He oversees the performance of more than 70 bus line inspection projects each year totaling more than 1,000 manufactured transit vehicles.

“It is important that we continue to push the envelope with new developments and technologies that will ensure efficient and safe operations. We place millions of lives in our hands everyday and it is important to get those individuals from point A to point B safely.”

Sarah Kline

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority

Director, Policy and Government Relations

Years in Transit: 10

A graduate of Harvard and Stanford Law School, Sarah Kline became involved in transit in 2000 when she became the counsel for the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. Kline also served as the lead Democratic Senate staffer on the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) of 2005.

In 2007 she successfully negotiated the inclusion of the Transit Security Grant Program (TSGP) in the Implementing the Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act. Additionally, Kline spearheaded the congressional effort to establish the Paul S. Sarbanes Transit in the Parks Program, formerly Alternative Transportation in Parks and Public Lands (ATPPL) Program.

Despite her commitment to national transit issues, Sarah has also been involved in local projects, such as her work towards the passage of a provision allowing federal agencies to operate employee shuttles to and from transit stops. Most recently, as of 2008, she serves as the director of policy and government relations for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), heading a staff of eight with responsibility for government relations with federal, state and local jurisdictions in the WMATA service area.

Kline often speaks at transit-related conferences and events in an effort to contribute to the success of transit programs nation-wide.

“Kline started riding Montgomery County, Maryland’s Ride On buses in high school (and took up two seats: one for herself and one for her French horn).  She is still a daily transit rider, though no longer a horn player.”

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Scott Sauer

South Eastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority

Manager Operational Safety

Years in Transit: 19

Scott Sauer followed in his father’s footsteps and began his career at the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) at the age of 19 as a surface train operator while studying business in college. Over the years he held other positions including subway/elevated train operator, transportation manager, and safety officer.

After graduating with a Master’s Degree in environmental protection and safety management from St. Joseph’s University in 2009, Sauer was promoted to manager operational safety at SEPTA. In his current position, Sauer is responsible for managing a staff of safety professionals that oversee the operational safety and fire/life safety activities for the sixth largest transit agency in the nation.

He was a key contributor to developing SEPTA’s industry leading rules efficiency testing program for both rail and bus operations. Sauer also oversees the administration of the authority’s 39 location safety committees and coordinates SEPTA’s Operation Lifesaver rail safety program. He is certified through the Institute of Police Technology and Management in advanced traffic crash investigation and is currently working toward his certified safety professional certification.

He has served on an APTA peer review team and spoken before the Federal Transit Administration’s state safety oversight program managers meeting.

In his spare time Sauer enjoys coaching his two sons’ baseball and soccer teams and taking family vacations.

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Seamus Murphy

SamTrans/Caltrain

Manager, Government Affairs

Years in Transit: 2

In a remarkably short period, Seamus Murphy has emerged as a leader and rising star in the California transit industry. Recognized widely for his passionate advocacy on behalf of an industry that has been the victim of unprecedented state budget cuts, Murphy shows a savvy ability to weave through the legislative thicket of state and federal governments and to convert elected officials and the public into transit advocates.

Murphy's primary responsibility is legislative advocacy on behalf of the three agencies he serves — SamTrans, Caltrain and the San Mateo County Transportation Authority — but he has become a key player on the California Transit Association Executive Board and a crucial strategist in the efforts of the San Francisco region and the state to go forward with plans to build a statewide high-speed rail network that has as its centerpiece the Caltrain right of way.

At a time when public support for transit is more critical than ever and when the issues of land-use and transit funding and public perception of our industry are inextricably interwoven, Murphy has entered the transit profession at full-tilt, bringing a background that is ideal for the circumstances the industry faces.

“Before Seamus was 25 years old, he had lived in 25 different homes and he often used public transit to explore his new surroundings.  These days, he is a proud new father and is preparing his son, Phineas, to play linebacker for the Denver Broncos.”

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Sean Gash

Chicago Transit Authority

Manager, Rail Scheduling Design & Development

Years in Transit: 10

For ten years Sean Gash has established a benchmark of excellence and dedication in the Chicago Transit Authority’s Rail Scheduling group, first as an Intern, Planner, Coordinator and currently as the Manager for Rail Scheduling Design and Development, a position he has held since 2008.

Gash leads a group of three scheduling analysts and is the Department’s point person for contact with CTA Rail Operations, the Control Center and local ATU Union 308. His ideas and opinions are known and respected throughout the agency.

During his early years growing up in Oak Park, Ill., and later attending the University of Illinois-Chicago, Gash was never far from the business of railroads. His network of rail colleagues has given him a unique perspective on the day-to-day aspects of train operations and he applies this knowledge to his current work.

When he is not scheduling, Gash supports a variety of local railroad organizations.  He serves on the Board of Directors for the Shore Line Interurban Historical Society, contributing photos to that society’s quarterly magazine “First & Fastest”.

“A native of Chicago, I have a lifelong interest in transportation and enjoy photography, history and traveling, and am a fan of the Stanley Cup champion Chicago Blackhawks hockey team.”

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Todd Beutler

General Manager

Cache Valley Transit District

Years in transit: 17

Todd Beutler began as a driver while attending Utah State University. As the general manager for the organization, he is responsible for the system of 30 vehicles serving a population of just over 80,000. CVTD provided more than 1.9 million trips this past year on a $6 million budget. The system operates fare free and has done so since its inception in 1992. The funding comes from a local option sales tax and federal funds.

Over the past five years as the general manager, his leadership has produced many milestones. Public transit was taken from a single city department to a multi-city, multi-state transit district and assisted city councils in finding, appointing and training of the 18-member board of trustees for the transit district. CVTD has operated more than a million miles and 384 days without a preventable accident or worker’s comp injury and while ridership has grown by more than 41 percent during the past five years. Also, third-party contracting was ended and all services were brought in house in less than three months with no interruption of service to riders or employees.

Beutler is an active member of Envision Utah, the clean air coalition in Cache Valley, the acting board president for the Urban Rural Specialized Transportation Assc. of Utah and a number of other important positions within his community and state.

“Public transit is more than transporting people to their destination to me. When I am on the bus I see such a diverse group of individuals going somewhere together. I have met so many wonderful people using public transit and found that we are more similar than different. “

Todd McIntyre

SamTrans/Caltrain

Manager, Community Relations

Years in Transit: 7

Todd McIntyre works for the San Mateo County Transit District, which means he really works for three agencies — SamTrans, the bus and paratransit provider for San Mateo County; Caltrain, the San Francisco-to-San Jose rail commute system; and the San Mateo County Transportation Authority, which oversees a half-cent sales tax for transportation projects. He brings to the position of community relations manager an extensive background in transit-related community outreach, having worked from 2000-2005 for the Mayor of Los Angeles as chief deputy for transportation.

McIntyre is steeped in the range of traditional practices by which agencies engage the public — community meetings, organizing constituent groups, advocating for policies and practices and responding to complaints and concerns. As a lead team member in the redesign of the agency's website, McIntyre ensured that the program utilized the latest media available, including Twitter and Facebook, so that the site would be a leading example of interactive communication and a primary means by which the agency would lift what the public sees as an institutional veil.

McIntyre has done groundbreaking work in developing new tools and responding in new forums, while continuing the traditional role.

“Todd is an avid motorcyclist and loves to travel, particularly to cities with great transit. He plans to visit Brazil for the next World Cup.”

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Tom Rutkowski

General Superintendent - Equipment & Shops

NJ Transit

Years in Transit: 16

Born into a transit family (his father worked for many years in NJ Transit’s rail department), Tom Rutkowski got into the “family business” after graduating from Rutgers University.

Rutkowski started as an electrician at NJ Transit in 1994, would leave to join Amtrak and spend two years on the Acela project giving him an opportunity to work in a new setting with some of the most advanced transportation equipment in America. He brought many of these lessons with him when he returned to NJ Transit as a senior technical services specialist in the QA Dept.

His leadership qualities recognized, Rutkowski quickly moved up the ladder at NJ Transit, becoming manager of the Service + Inspection unit at NJ Transit's Meadows Maintenance Complex, then onto the Hoboken Division as assistant superintendent and finally to his current post as general superintendent of equipment and shops.

In every post Tom has made his mark with a hands-on approach. He cares about his people and his company. He has an expression that he carries in every role — “good enough is not good enough, it has to be done right.” He is a young man, but his voice is a respected one at NJ Transit.

Tom was a member of the Rutgers University ROTC program and considered a military career before going to work at NJ Transit. He also was among a team of NJ Transit mechanical employees who placed 6^th in an APTA International Rail Roadeo.

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