Josh DeBruyn of Kalamazoo has received the 2015 Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Director's Award - the department's highest honor for outstanding service. MDOT established the annual award more than 20 years ago to recognize employees who exhibit leadership and exemplary public service.
"MDOT employees are committed to keeping Michigan's transportation system moving smoothly for residents and businesses. Dedicated employees like Josh DeBruyn bring a unique and important perspective to MDOT's work by focusing on the nonmotorized aspect of our transportation system," said State Transportation Director Kirk T. Steudle. "While I am proud of our entire workforce, Director's Award recipients like Josh stand out because they are nominated by their peers for this special recognition."
DeBruyn was honored in the professional, specialist category. As the bicycle and pedestrian coordinator in MDOT's Lansing central office, he has participated in several workgroups that have resulted in either a process improvement or a new product. An example of this participation was when DeBruyn oversaw the establishment of a regional nonmotorized advisory group. Serving as the project manager, he worked closely with the region to produce a meaningful and useful end product. When charged with designating US-2 as an official US Bicycle Route, DeBruyn partnered with a colleague to complete this task in three-and-a-half short months, when similar designations have taken up to two years to accomplish.
With a dedication to teamwork, DeBruyn has taken the initiative to network with several different agencies, both public and private. From working with the Attorney General's Office and various areas of MDOT to serving as a member of the CSIT (Complete Streets Internal Team), DeBruyn continually strives to improve services for the nonmotorized public.
DeBruyn is a graduate of Western Michigan University.
