Effective today, Michael P. Melaniphy takes the helm as president and chief executive officer of the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). Melaniphy's entire career has been in public transportation, with 23 years of experience in the public and private sectors.
APTA Chair Gary C. Thomas, who is president/executive director of Dallas Area Rapid Transit of Dallas, Texas said, "Michael Melaniphy has a proven track record in public transportation with broad-based experience in both the public and private sectors. He has the vision and leadership to ensure that public transportation continues to play an important role in the economic vitality of our country."
"It is an honor and privilege to lead APTA," said Melaniphy. "Public transportation is essential to our country's prosperity and economic competitiveness. I will work with industry leaders and elected officials to expand public transportation so that quality travel choices are available and good, American jobs are created."
Prior to APTA, Melaniphy was the vice president Public Sector for bus manufacturer Motor Coach Industries, Inc., of Schaumburg¸ Ill. He also led public transit systems in Charlotte, N.C.; Wichita, Kan; Hamilton, Ohio; and Laredo, Texas. Melaniphy began his public transit career as a student at Indiana University where he drove the bus for Bobby Knight's basketball team. (To see his complete bio click here.)
Melaniphy succeeds William Millar, who retired on Oct. 31 after serving 15 years as APTA president. Melaniphy was unanimously approved by the APTA board of directors in July after an extensive search that included a pool of 180 candidates.
