Accelerate 2024 - Transportation Equity - Meeting the Moment

COUNCIL OF PRESIDENTS

SUMMER 2024

A PUBLICATION OF THE CONFERENCE OF MINORITY TRANSPORTATION OFFICIALS

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CALLING ALL EQUITY CHAMPIONS! COMTO and Transportation: two great connectors. At COMTO, we believe in the power of transportation to bring people, communities, and ideas together.

As a member of COMTO, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with a network of professionals and advocates who share the same passion for building a more connected, accessible, and equitable transportation system.

THE CONFERENCE OF MINORITY TRANSPORTATION OFFICIALS 202-506-2917 | info@comto.org

CONNECT WITH US www.COMTO.org

@COMTOHQ

@COMTOHeadquarters

@COMTOHQ

@COMTO_HQ

@COMTOHeadquarters

COMTO NATIONAL LEADERSHIP

NATIONAL CHAIR Tanya Adams

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR Freddie Fuller

Senior Vice President, Inclusion & Diversity WSP USA

Vice President, Geographic Sales Manager Mid-Atlantic Jacobs

FIRST VICE CHAIR Dr. Lester Woods

MEMBER-AT-LARGE Regine Beauboeuf, PE

Chief Administrative Officer Missouri Department of Transportation (Modot)

Senior Vice President, Program Equity Advisor HNTB

SECOND VICE CHAIR Gwendolen Gray

Yvette Janniere-Houlder

Project Controls Director & Vice President HNTB

SECRETARY/TREASURER Michelle Hiett Chief Executive Officer Hie-Den, LLC

Chief Executive Officer Rigor Management

Ruben Landa Assistant Vice President / Texas Business Leader Communications & Public Involvement WSP USA

Melissa Rolle-Scott Assistant Director Administration Chief Administrative Officer Miami-Dade Department of Transportation & Public Works

Keisha Campbell Chief Diversity & Culture Officer Toronto Transit Commission

COUNCIL OF PRESIDENTS REPRESENTATIVE Quincy Howard Senior Compliance Supplier Diversity Officer Maxx Impact Group

Demauris Terry Executive Vice President/COO BA Inc.

Bianca Graves Director, Business Services Leading Edge Business Solutions, LLC

BOARD ADVISORS Renee Banks President & Chief Communications Officer G. W. Peoples Contracting Co., Inc. (GWP)

Christian Kent Principal Transit Management Consulting, LLC

*As of January 2024

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COMTO COUNCIL OF PRESIDENTS

Alabama Brenda Perryman Arizona Gary Flunoy Atlanta Aaron Davis Austin Yannis Banks Boston Aboubacar Konate Central Florida Iranetta Dennis Chicago Rovaughn Graham Cincinnati Sally Stewart McKinnie Cleveland Jarrett Davis Colorado Rico Nelson

Columbus Quincy Howard Connecticut Sharon Okoye District of Columbia Jeff Parker Ft. Lauderdale Rogelio Hendricks Hampton Roads Keisha Branch Hawaii Steven Nieves Houston Steve Granson Jacksonville Donovan Calicker Kansas City Maurice Gay Louisiana Paula Roddy

Maryland Enyinna Anthony Memphis Bacarra Mauldin Miami Wade Jones Michigan Bianca Graves Minnesota Tekia Jefferson Nashville Kia Lewis New York Rich Watson North Carolina Ebony Pittman North Texas Marvin Jackson Northern California DeNise Blake

Oregon/SW Washington Robin Thlehhema Palm Beach County Ann McNeil Philadelphia Daniel Villanueva Pittsburgh Charles Reeves Richmond Joe Dillard Jr. San Antonio Maurice Bridges Southern California Demauris Terry St. Louis Vivian Martain Toronto & Region Annette Salfarlie Washington State Grantley Martelly *As of January 2024

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ABOUT COMTO | ACCELERATE

ACCELERATE is a publication of the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO). Articles may not be reproduced without the publisher’s written permission.

MISSION: COMTO’s mission is to ensure opportunities and maximum participation in the transportation industry for minority individuals, veterans, people with disabilities and certified MWDBE businesses through leadership training, professional development, scholarship and internship funding, political advocacy, partnership building and networking opportunities.

VISION: Our vision is to ensure full access for minorities in transportation while preparing and positioning leaders for rapidly evolving global opportunities.

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF April Rai, President & CEO, COMTO STAFF WRITERS AND CONTRIBUTORS Nadji Kirby, Chief of Staff Julia Bankerd, Senior Manager, Membership and Chapter Engagement Isabella Diecidue, Manager, Digital Strategy Shantal Williams, Associate, Membership Engagement DESIGN Doug Hunley | Design DCH COMTO Headquarters 4121 Wilson Blvd Suite 901 Arlington, VA 22203 Phone: 202-506-2917 Email: info@comto.org Website: comto.org

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Letter from COMTO

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Press Release: Partnership selected by USDOT to serve as National Capacity Builders to support 16 Networked Communities

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FROM OUR PREMIER SPONSORS: Growing Small Business - HNTB

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Supporting Small and Diverse Businesses - Bechtel

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FROM OUR INDUSTRY PARTNERS Gabi Brazzil – The Equity Changemaker

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Transportation Equity – Meeting the Moment - AECOM

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Transportation Equity: Jacobs is Meeting the Moment - Jacobs

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A Better Method for Measuring Equity During Infrastructure Capital Planning and Development - HDR

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2024 Celebrating Women Who Move The Nation Recap

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FROM OUR MOU & COLLABORATIVE PARTNERS

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State DOTs Seek to Enhance Equity Within Transportation Infrastructure - AASHTO

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Sometimes Leadership Means Getting Out of the Way (and thoughts on finding future leaders) - IBTTA

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Latinos In Transit: Empowering Diversity in the Transportation Workforce - Latinos in Transit

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Building Bridges: Equity & Opportunity in Early Workforce Development - Mineta Transportation Institute

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2nd Conference on Advancing Transportation Equity (CATE 2024 - Transportation Research Board

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Mr. Reeves Henry, Texas Inventor, Blacksmith, Philanthropist

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LETTER FROM COMTO Dear COMTO Family, Welcome to the summer 2024 issue of Accelerate, the annual publication of the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO). This edition coincides with our 2024 National Meeting & Training Conference, which is centered on the pivotal theme: “Transportation Equity: Meeting the Moment.” As the transportation industry navigates a transformative period, this issue delves into the critical intersections of infrastructure investments, innovative design, emerging technologies, and the imperative of community engagement to ensure that the benefits of these advancements are equitably distributed.

In this issue, we highlight the work of Mineta Transportation Institute (MTI), “Building Bridges: Equity & Opportunity in Early Workforce Development”. This article underscores the importance of investing in talent pipelines that reflect the diversity of our communities. Historically, MTI has supported programs for middle and high school students, but recognizing the profound impact of early education, they have now extended their initiatives to younger age groups. This approach not only introduces children to the fundamental concepts of transportation but also promotes safety, environmental stewardship, critical thinking, and an early enthusiasm for the diverse career opportunities within the sector.

HDR shares “A Better Method for Measuring Equity During Infrastructure Capital Planning and Development,” that explores a novel methodology that enhances our ability to quantify the equity impacts of infrastructure projects.

Traditionally, the transportation industry has struggled to measure the qualitative benefits—such as improved quality of life and access to essential services—alongside quantitative metrics. HDR’s research fellowship has pioneered a weighted benefit-cost analysis that integrates geographic income levels, offering a more precise societal valuation of infrastructure investments. This advancement promises to refine how we prioritize projects to better serve underserved populations.

Texas Metro News brings to life the inspiring story of Reeves Henry, a distinguished African American blacksmith, philanthropist, and inventor from Forney, Texas. Henry’s legacy, which endured until his passing in 1930, is a testament to the profound impact individuals can have on their communities through dedication and innovation. His story not only honors his contributions but also serves as a reminder of the rich history and potential that exists within all communities.

Jacobs Engineering contributes an insightful article titled “Transportation Equity: Jacobs is Meeting the Moment,” which highlights their commitment to embedding social value and equity into every facet of their work. Jacobs emphasizes a holistic approach to infrastructure development, leveraging smart technology and data-driven solutions to ensure that projects deliver equitable benefits. Their efforts illustrate how transportation initiatives can create lasting social, environmental, and economic impacts by centering the needs of people and communities.

This issue of Accelerate is a call to action for all stakeholders in the transportation industry to embrace equity as a fundamental principle in their work. By showcasing these diverse perspectives and innovative approaches, we aim to inspire continued progress toward a transportation system that truly serves everyone, meeting the moment with the urgency and dedication it demands.

As you explore these articles, we hope you are inspired by the stories of progress and innovation, and motivated to contribute to a more equitable transportation future. Let’s work together to build bridges, not just in infrastructure, but in opportunity, understanding, and shared prosperity.

Sincerely,

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — APRIL 18, 2024 COMTO, in partnership with AECOM, AFA, ITSA, MWDBE Training Academy, ReConnect Rondo and Two Degrees selected by USDOT to serve as National Capacity Builders to support 16 Networked Communities.

Washington, DC —The Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) in partnership with leading industry partners including AECOM, Accelerator for America (AFA), Intelligent Transportation Society of America (ITSA), The MWDBE Training Academy, Inc. (MWDBETA), ReConnect Rondo, and Two Degrees proudly announce their selection by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to collectively support 16 communities as National Capacity Builders. This pivotal collaboration, backed by a substantial $4,250,000 grant under the FY 2023 Thriving Communities Program (TCP), aims to drive sustainable growth and prosperity in underserved areas across the United States.

COMTO’s expertise in grant management, stakeholder engagement and actualizing equity goals will be applied to ensure that communities are given opportunities to thrive using a restorative practices approach that prioritizes strengthening relationships between residents, communitybased organizations, public and private sector partners. “COMTO is honored to lead this dynamic collection of organizations to empower under resourced communities to achieve sustainable growth and prosperity,” said April Rai, President & CEO, COMTO. “COMTO’s work in this area spans over 50 years across 40 chapters and has always centered around equity in transportation,“ said Tanya Adams, Chair, Board of Directors, COMTO. The TCP will help 112 communities’ nationwide access federal funding and resources provided by the President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). DOT is awarding grants totaling $23.6 million to three national and six regional Thriving Communities Capacity Builders to support the 112 communities, which includes 12 Tribal Nations.

AECOM, a global infrastructure consulting firm, will provide its expertise to support communities in each phase of project delivery to take on their most complex challenges and pioneer innovative solutions that make a positive, lasting impact.

“We’re excited to partner with COMTO to bring much-needed transportation improvements and capacity to communities across the nation,” said Christie Baker, AECOM’s Senior Vice President and Northeast Transportation business line lead. “This work builds on extensive collaboration with our clients to deliver transformational and equitable mobility outcomes that expand access to opportunities.”

TCP National Capacity builders will provide project-level technical assistance and planning support on issues such 8

as preparing grant application materials, undertaking predevelopment and project delivery activities, designing and deploying more inclusive community engagement strategies, and fostering small business and workforce development.

ITSA will support community partners in advancing their knowledge and deployment of intelligent transportation technologies. This innovation will not only improve mobility but also foster sustainability and economic growth in these communities. ITS America’s national reach, including its members and network of state chapters, will be integral in supporting communities for the scaled deployment of innovative transportation technology. “We are thrilled to partner with COMTO and our network on this TCP grant. Programs like TCP from the BIL are vital to bringing new technology to underresourced and disadvantaged communities to save lives and build local economies,” said Laura Chace, President & CEO, ITSA. The program provides two years of no-cost, intensive technical assistance to under-resourced and disadvantaged communities to help them identify, develop, and deliver transportation projects to achieve locally driven economic development, health, environment, mobility, and access goals. AFA will activate their network of over 80 cities and build upon their strong track record of supporting communities to lead a networked community of practice to further develop and implement inclusive growth and engagement strategies, breaking down barriers in cities traditionally excluded from opportunity. “AFA is honored to again be chosen as a USDOT Thriving Communities capacity builder.

We look forward to working with this innovative coalition to help 16 communities maximize the economic and community benefits of the BIL — making national change from the ground up,” said Mary Ellen Wiederwohl, President & CEO, AFA. Technical assistance provided through the program includes individualized training support to small businesses to ensure they are positioned to provide supportive services in compliance with local, state, regional and federal regulations. Gary Wade, President of the MWDBETC is well-known for reminding small business owners in his program, “If you knew better you could do better.” Capacity building support will include mentorship from community-based organization, ReConnect Rondo, in identifying funding opportunities, conducting planning activities and applying restorative community development frameworks. “We are honored to partner with COMTO in this transformative work.

Like Rondo, many communities were devastated by the federal highway system, and we’re eager to contribute our experience and expertise to giving lift to communities across the country,” said Keith Baker, Executive Director, ReConnect Rondo.

and a commitment to environmental, social and governance priorities.

Two Degrees, a communications and creative strategies firm will ensure communities convey essential project goals and values through compelling storytelling. “Receiving the Thriving Communities grant marks an exciting chapter for Two Degrees.

We’re thrilled to deepen our partnerships and drive transformative community work that fosters real change—a true testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision,” said Dan Kully, Two Degrees.

About Accelerator for America

This unparalleled collection of organizations represents a combined 13 decades of experience providing technical assistance, building capacity and management of transportation and infrastructure projects in various stages of delivery across diverse American communities. The planned approach to technical assistance and capacity building will be holistic, multifaceted, and agile, leveraging the strengths of each organization to serve the unique and changing needs of each community. By harnessing this collective expertise, community project teams will no doubt be positioned for success in creating and sustaining thriving communities.

For further information on the Thriving Communities Program and the selected recipients, please visit the DOT website: Thriving Communities Program.

Contact: April Rai, President & CEO, COMTO April.rai@comto.org | (202) 998-3352

AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm and its Professional Services business had revenue of US$14.4 billion in fiscal year 2023. See how we are delivering sustainable legacies for generations to come at aecom.com and @AECOM.

AFA is a nonprofit, nonpartisan “Do Tank” that delivers solutions, connections, and resources to mayors and other local leaders working to create greater economic mobility in underserved communities. Through Capacity Building, Technical Assistance and Advocacy, AFA helps develop opportunities for communities to invest in themselves by maximizing federal funding programs, attracting innovative private investments, and by generating local infrastructure funding. Visit AcceleratorForAmerica.org.

About the Intelligent Transportation Society of America The Intelligent Transportation Society of America was founded by Congress to advise the federal government on digital transformation in transportation and is the only organization that brings together private industry, government, researchers, non-profits, and communities to advance the deployment of intelligent transportation technologies to save lives, promote sustainability, and increase access and opportunity for all communities. Our vision is a better future transformed by transportation technology and innovation that is safer, greener, and smarter for all. Visit www.itsa.org.

About the MWDBE Training Academy, Inc. The MWDBE Training Academy is a close group of individuals and entities that aim to provide technical training and education to the underserved and underutilized business community on certain rules and regulations to ensure their ability to qualify, pursue and attain contracting opportunities. The virtual classes offer knowledge sharing and

About the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials

the growth of a strong network of educated practitioners nationwide in the

COMTO, founded in 1971, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to

About ReConnect Rondo

advancing underrepresented groups in the transportation industry. With 40 chapters across North America, COMTO’s mission is centered around ensuring transportation meets the needs of all and its workforce reflects the communities served. Visit www.comto.org.

small business community. Visit www.mwdbeacademy.com

ReConnect Rondo is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring equity and opportunity in the historically black Rondo neighborhood by leading a united effort in pursuit of one common goal — a revitalized African-American

About AECOM AECOM is the world’s trusted infrastructure

Cultural Enterprise District connected by a community land bridge. Visit www.

consulting firm, delivering professional services throughout the project

About Two Degrees

lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. On projects spanning transportation, buildings, water, new energy and the environment, our public- and private-sector clients trust us to solve their most complex challenges. Our teams are driven by a common purpose to deliver a better world through our unrivaled technical and digital expertise, a culture of equity, diversity and inclusion,

reconnectrondo.com.

At Two Degrees, we help design and accelerate creative operational and communications strategies that elevate the products and services of our clients. We only work with companies that are committed to changing their practices to help address the global crisis of climate change. Visit www.twodegrees.live 9

PREMIER SPONSOR

Growing Small Business HNTB advances the transportation industry’s future through its partners program with historically underutilized businesses.

HNTB’s Partners Program formally launched in 2009 to further invest in small, minority- and women-owned businesses. The program establishes long-term partnerships between HNTB

firm runs its business, and the small businesses open their books, explain how they do things and share where they have challenges,” Gallo said. “There’s an honest and open exchange

and women and minority small businesses, often referred to as Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) or Historically

of information in this one-on-one, trusted space. It is a twoway street of mutual learning and continuous improvement

Underutilized Businesses (HUBs), to support these firms’ growth.

for all of us.”

While relationships have long existed between HNTB and HUBs, the Partners Program formalized the mentoring process, giving participating companies the opportunity to benefit from the firm’s experience. HNTB is committed to forging and nurturing these partnerships and supporting small businesses as they take on the myriad of challenges involved in the development of today’s infrastructure.

 FORMALIZING YEARS OF HUB SUPPORT “The Partners Program has grown in the context of an expanding national focus on equity for Historically Underutilized Businesses,” said Emily Gallo, HNTB director of infrastructure and mobility equity. “The Biden administration has advanced support for disadvantaged businesses through the 2019 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, new initiatives at the U.S. Department of Transportation and recent executive orders. The Partners Program demonstrates HNTB’s commitment to these efforts for well over a decade.”

address areas that may be inhibiting a HUB’s growth. HNTB mentors seek the HUB’s input to customize a program that is relevant to their specific needs and goals.

Underpinning the Partners Program are HNTB’s relationships with industry leaders and organizations, including the Equity in Infrastructure Project and the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO). Interaction with these organizations contributes to robustness in the training HNTB uses to build capacity for Partners Program participants.

 INVESTING IN TRANSPORTATION’S FUTURE “The program has exposed HNTB to new firms, which expands

Industry mentor-protégé endeavors often are built around specific infrastructure projects and may contribute to meeting

our pool of partners,” said Qiana McKoy, HNTB manager for infrastructure and mobility equity. “It is an investment in the

disadvantaged business enterprise goals on those jobs.

Partners Program participation is unrelated to any project, but instead is a year-long program designed to help HUBs grow

future of transportation that not only encourages our partner HUB firms to grow, but also inspires them to mentor other smaller businesses.

their companies and achieve the goals they set.

“HNTB leaders communicate the nuts and bolts of how the 10

The Partners Program includes traditional mentoring in project and construction management and technical skills but goes a step further by looking at what each participant needs to be able to expand capacity and take on larger, more complex projects. The initiative’s holistic approach includes one-onone training and mentoring in marketing, talent and project management, operations, sales and financial management to

“As our partner firms grow beyond DBE eligibility, they will have been equipped to prepare the newer firms to fill that

space. The continuing availability of smaller firm partners not only benefits larger firms like HNTB, but

“Like a lot of entrepreneurs, I started a business because there was something I wanted to do,” she said. “It wasn’t that I

also helps the transportation industry overall keep the utilization of HUB businesses high.”

necessarily wanted to run a business. In the Partners Program, I met with HNTB experts to review financials, benefits, compliance and other areas that can trip up small companies.”

Partners Program leaders also consider how the initiative can “bring real benefit to the growth and

During her first six years in business, Beato pursued prime

development of the people in a community, whether that’s through helping to grow small businesses,

contractor roles for technology system implementations, an area in which she had specialized skills. Her Partners Program

creating workforce development opportunities or supporting new transportation professionals,”

experience convinced her of the value of positioning the company favorably for subcontractor work.

McKoy said.

 BUILDING SMALL BUSINESS CONFIDENCE Somat Engineering and Lumenor Consulting, both past participants, benefited in specific ways from their Partners Program experiences.

“Before that change, the company was limited to what I could do and to my personal reputation,” Beato said. “One of the big lifts in my company was to build the brand as a company, away from me. To grow, I had to expand the company into complementary services that were no longer tied 100% to my capabilities.”

“We came from every session with a tool or a practical piece of advice we could follow,” said Gnanadesikan “Ram” Ramanujam, president of Detroit, Michigan-based Somat. “We met with HNTB’s top people, and the three of us who participated were surprised at how openly HNTB shared information.”

Beato defined five practice areas and hired an experienced

“It was an eye-opening process,” Ramanujam said. “It helped us reconsider our processes and look at what is right for us to grow the way we want to.”

next set of major strategic changes.

The primary benefit Ramanujam gained from the Partners Program was increased confidence.

“We were told, ‘Don’t underestimate yourselves. You have a lot of talents and abilities.’ Firms like ours typically hear, ‘We have to take you because we have to satisfy a DBE/MBE goal.’ We are sometimes not recognized as having useful capabilities to contribute. Going through the program gave us confidence in what our expertise and our unique relationships will add to a project.”

practice lead to oversee each area. She bases decisions upon metrics and formalized planning. Having set the stage for growth through systems and processes, Lumenor is poised to expand from 42 to 150 employees before having to make the

Beato also is fulfilling the Partners Program mission of paying forward the mentorship she has received, including through her service as vice chair of Women Transportation Seminar International and co-chair of the WTS entrepreneurship committee. She also mentors women-owned firms and, based on knowledge gleaned from the Partners Program, recommends formalized business planning and metrics-based operational measurements.

Other past Partners Program participants have mentioned outcomes that include broader networking opportunities, employee growth, confidence to expand their office space and

 PAYING IT FORWARD

the ability to compete for prime contractor roles in new service areas or new geographies.

Bridgette Beato, Lumenor Consulting’s CEO, went through the Partners Program in 2016.

“HNTB maintains lasting relationships with HUB partners

“The program provided value in many areas, but a focus for me was the back office – the running of the business,” said Beato, whose Alpharetta, Georgia-based company helps public transportation agencies and other transportation industry companies assess and incorporate tools, technologies and processes that increase safety, reliability and usability.

and still works with firms that went through the program a decade or more ago,” Gallo said. “The Partners Program is a long-standing commitment. Working alongside industry organizations who also support and help HUB partners grow, HNTB will continue to invest in building up small businesses.”

PREMIER SPONSOR

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PREMIER SPONSOR

Supporting Small and Diverse Businesses Prime contractors play a pivotal role in nurturing the growth of and contributing to the success of small and diverse businesses (DBEs) within the construction and engineering sectors. Through the implementation of practical strategies and initiatives, prime contractors can effectively collaborate with DBEs, driving equity, innovation, and economic empowerment.

At Bechtel, we recognize our opportunity to support small and diverse businesses. Established in 1898, Bechtel has a long history of delivering engineering, construction, and project management solutions for customers across various markets, including Infrastructure, Mining and Metals, Nuclear, Security & Environmental, Energy, and Manufacturing and Technology. With over 25,000 projects completed in 160 countries and a diverse team of 38,000 employees from over 100 nationalities, we are committed to leaving a positive legacy in the communities where we work and live.

In 2023, our focus on investing in small businesses led to a significant increase in small business spending, reaching over 40%, compared to an average of 24% in previous years. Bechtel’s subcontract spend in FY23 increased to nearly $1.88 Billion, reflecting our commitment to supporting DBEs and fostering growth and opportunity in local communities.

OUR WORK WITH DBES INCLUDES: Mentorship Program Development: Bechtel has a robust mentorship program, providing guidance, support, and resources to DBEs, fostering their growth and development.

Creation of a Dedicated Portal: Bechtel developed a specialized online portal for DBEs, offering insight into upcoming projects and opportunities, streamlining communication and collaboration. This portal is a chance for businesses to register their company’s information, upload certifications, capability statements, and provide background on previous work history with different customers. Business owners can view the projects we are pursuing, understand opportunities for those projects, and view the outreach events we are hosting and/or attending.

Integration of DBEs in Community Outreach: Bechtel actively involves DBEs in its community outreach initiatives, ensuring their inclusion and participation in projects. An example of this is our ‘Meet the Prime’ events where we seek to form partnerships.

Our efforts were recognized with the 2024 U.S. Small Business Administration’s Dwight D. Eisenhower Award for Excellence in Construction. This prestigious award acknowledges our efforts to promote small business growth and innovation within the construction industry. However, this recognition is not just about us; it is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the small businesses we collaborate with every day.

Together, with DBEs we are proud to build brighter, more inclusive communities while advancing the goals of equity, diversity, and economic empowerment.

Learn more at bechtel.com.

PREMIER SPONSOR

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Building inclusive futures together.

Bechtel believes in the power of partnering with small and diverse businesses to foster equity in engineering and construction. As the proud recipient of the 2024 U.S. Small Business Administration Dwight D. Eisenhower Award in Construction, we are committed to creating greater access and opportunities that lead to smarter, safer, cleaner and more global cities.

Extraordinary teams building inspiring projects.

NATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

COMTO’s National Scholarship Program supports our strategic goal of ensuring the continuing legacy of minorities in transportation.

COMTO annually awards multiple national academic scholarships, ranging from $500 to $6,000 each to minority graduate and undergraduate students from across the country. Scholarship awardees are represented in all academic backgrounds and are pursuing various careers in the transportation industry.

COMTO Chapters

Please reach out to your local Chapter for open scholarship opportunities.

Make a Donation

COMTO’s National Scholarship Fund allows us to award multiple academic scholarships to minority undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a variety of careers.

INDUSTRY PARTNER

Gabi Brazzil – The Equity Changemaker Meet Gabi Brazzil, co-founder and lead of the WSP Equity Center of Excellence (ECE). Discover her commitment to equitable processes and outcomes.

What is WSP’s Equity Center of Excellence (ECE) and how does it positively impact communities?

The ECE, unique to WSP, is a group of equity practitioners who have technical backgrounds in planning, engineering and design focused on equity beyond compliance. We integrate equity into decision-making through project governance, technical work, prioritization of public investments, and policy development. Creating this practice centralizes talent and resources to collaborate and serve our clients and communities more effectively.

What inspires or motivates you in your career?

I’m an Afrolatina who grew up in what people would describe as a “disadvantaged” community. My parents, like many other parents in communities that lack equity, tried to teach their children how to survive in a world not designed for them. I grew up coming to terms with that reality. Today, I harness the power of my lived experience as inspiration to change parents’ conversations with their children from “survive” to “thrive” by designing communities with equitable outcomes that build faith in change.

What is the biggest challenge in your field that you’re working to help resolve?

One is the legacy impact of underinvestment, and another is evolving siloed planning to multi-disciplinary planning. For example, equity communities can lack diverse, affordable, and infrastructure-supported transportation. These privileges may be readily available in non-transit reliant neighborhoods to encourage people with the privilege to own a car to use non-driving transportation. The ECE asks and answers: How can our newest and best transportation innovations be prioritized in equity communities first?

Take affordable housing, for example. The quality-of-life outcomes for those residents depend greatly on how that site is integrated into transportation planning, economic 16

development, sustainability, and more. All investments are not inherently good, we have to be intentional. Even then, we don’t get to decide we’ve achieved equity – the community does.

What are some impactful projects you have been a part of?

One favorite project category is Reconnecting Communities projects which reimagine corridors that bifurcated communities of color, usually Black communities. Before and after photos are sobering. Hundreds and thousands of homes were literally bulldozed, clearing thriving families, businesses, and culture. It’s interesting to see how different communities define “reconnection.” One thing is clear: physical reconnection of land is not enough. The displaced generation and their descendants lost so much more than that. The ECE asks and answers: What did we learn from the decision-making that produced, approved, and implemented these corridor designs? That’s the opportunity the industry must rise to meet.

INDUSTRY PARTNER

TANYA ADAMS COMTO National Board Chair

RUBEN LANDA

COMTO National Board Chair At Large

JEFF PARKER

ARASH SAEEDI

TASHA STEINER

JARED LOVE

Treasurer Austin, Texas

Scholarship Chair Maryland

President Washington, D.C.

Scholarship Golf Committee Columbus, Ohio

Transportation Equity:

Meeting the Moment Nationwide WSP is a proud Platinum Industry Partner and sponsor of the 2024 COMTO CEO Summit.

Find out what we can do for you. wsp.com 17

INDUSTRY PARTNER

...reduce the racial wealth gap by creating more prime, joint venture, and equity contracting opportunities for small and disadvantaged businesses.

Transportation Equity – Meeting the Moment Diane Cowin Senior Vice President, Director Global Transit – Growth Markets + ESG Karen Campbell Vice President, Austin Executive Since its passage in November 2021, the Infrastructure and Jobs Investment Act, of which $257 billion is transportation, has ushered in a swell of unprecedented investment in infrastructure. The IJIA is focused on funding projects that promote social value.

At AECOM, we have committed to creating Sustainable Legacies by improving social value outcomes for our employees, partners, and communities. We are proud to have become a signatory of the Equity in Infrastructure Project, which commits signatories to build generational wealth and reduce the racial wealth gap by creating more prime, joint venture, and equity contracting opportunities for small and disadvantaged businesses. In addition to this important action, here are a few examples of how to promote social value in transportation projects at the community level:  Growing generational opportunities and workforce development. AECOM establishes strategic partnerships with key clients and community and educational organizations to identify opportunities and career paths for a diverse workforce. For the fourth year in a row, AECOM is leading the Austin Transit Partnership Project Connect High School Summer Internship Program – an eight-week paid internship program designed to engage with and introduce Austin Independent School District high school students

to diverse professional career opportunities, including planning, architecture, designing, engineering, science, and program and construction management. AECOM also serves on the Central Texas Workforce Solutions Mobility + Infrastructure Sector Partnership Leadership Team with a mission to develop a diverse Central Texas workforce, united in its commitment to align and collaborate on leveraging resources for the benefit of the whole community.  Increasing opportunities for local Minority/Women/ Small/Disadvantaged business enterprise community.

AECOM understands that we have an opportunity and an obligation to foster partnerships with M/W/S/DBE firms. We are committed to providing meaningful and relevant work to help new and established M/W/S/DBE firms develop best practices and assist well-established firms expand their portfolios. To facilitate our engagement with M/W/S/DBE firms, we are committed to: 1) enhancing the capabilities of small businesses by providing meaningful roles on projects; 2) expanding the range of services provided, personnel skill sets, and geographic reach; 3) imparting value through lessons learned, technical training, and practical experience; 4) building capacity in business development capabilities; and 5) helping to establish and implement policies, procedures, and/or systems for project execution. On larger programs, AECOM engages with M/W/S/DBE firms through formal mentor-protégé agreements.

At AECOM, we believe we all leave a legacy, and growing social value builds enduring legacies.

INDUSTRY PARTNER

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PROUD to SUPPORT EQUITY in GLOBAL TRANSPORTATION

2024

INDUSTRY PARTNER

Transportation Equity: Jacobs is Meeting the Moment Social value and equity is a core part of who we are at

equitable innovations and solutions in their delivery. For

Jacobs. To us, this means working collaboratively to drive positive impacts and transformative outcomes – socially, environmentally and economically – by putting people and society at the heart of decision making.

Jacobs’ part, our alternative analysis approach on Metro’s South Annex Bus Base project is focused on economic evaluation, equity and social justice and sustainability.

This approach underpins the entire project, including conducting equity analyses, integrating major site elements, and measuring capital investment, all through a sustainable and equitable lens.

We use smart technology to enable data-driven solutions and work with our clients and partners to create solutions that drive a more equitable distribution of benefits for the communities in which we live and work.

At Jacobs, we’re invested in creating a more equal society and an enduring legacy, we strive to leave things better than we found them.

ADVANCING EQUITY WITH BATTERY ELECTRIC BUS FACILITIES Near Seattle, Washington, Jacobs is designing what is anticipated to be the largest battery electric bus (BEB) facilities in the U.S. – marking a significant step toward meeting King County Metro (Metro)’s commitment to a 100% zero-emissions fleet by 2035.

Metro committed to having its first BEB coaches serve routes in south King County, in transit-dependent communities impacted by air pollution and climate change.

Metro also partners with local community colleges to recruit and perform job skill development with people of color, low-income individuals, and people with limited English proficiency.

USING DATA TO INFORM DECISION-MAKING With StreetLight Data, a big data web platform – wholly owned by Jacobs – users can harness connected devices to measure vehicle, transit, bike and foot traffic virtually anywhere. StreetLight’s origin-destination data also helps determine the character of each transportation network.

This empowers Jacobs and our clients to understand the dynamics of people’s movement and customize analyses for a variety of use cases, including emerging areas, such as social equity and energy transformation. StreetLight helps clients address critical equity challenges with comprehensive transportation insights that illuminate how diverse populations travel.

Want to know more about how Jacobs embeds social, economic and environmental benefits into delivery? Read more about what we do at: www.jacobs.com/social-value-equity-solutions.

Metro’s Equity and Social Justice Plan encourages consultants involved with the BEB program to propose INDUSTRY PARTNER

20

Jacobs congratulates the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials on your 53rd Annual National Meeting and Training Conference.

At Jacobs, we see an opportunity to keep the world moving forward.

We understand the transportation landscape and how it’s evolving to ensure a more resilient and sustainable future. When it comes to navigating the challenges and complexities involved in building mobility networks, we are up to the challenge.

We’re pushing the limits of what’s possible.

Follow us @JacobsConnects | jacobs.com

INDUSTRY PARTNER

A Better Method for Measuring Equity During Infrastructure Capital Planning and Development NEW APPROACH HELPS QUANTIFY THE BENEFITS OF INFRASTRUCTURE DECISIONS BY INCORPORATING INCOME LEVELS

By Chris Behr and Cathy LaFata Spurred by efforts to prioritize equity in infrastructure decisions, the transportation industry has long explored ways to quantify benefits to underserved populations.

Qualitative benefits — quality of life improvements such as access to care — have been clear, but it has been difficult to compare the value of program outcomes based on geographic income levels and program costs.

An HDR-sponsored research fellowship has now established a defensible way to do so, using a weighted benefit-cost analysis that builds on a standard benefit-cost analysis to determine a new societal value for project recommendations. In November, the White House Office of Management and Budget finalized its revisions to guidelines on economic analysis for projects and policies and included for the first time a reference to weighted benefit-cost analyses. This new federal guidance fully legitimizes the approach.

How does this weighted benefit-cost analysis work?

In this method, the value of outcomes to beneficiaries — such as time or cost savings — are combined with weights based on their incomes. Since theory and evidence indicate that lower income populations gain comparatively more from outcomes, a weighted analysis incorporates higher weights for lower income people. In projects that benefit more people with lower incomes, a weighted benefit-cost analysis will reveal a higher societal value than a standard analysis. The method also provides new information that agencies can consider alongside a standard analysis in making program decisions. HDR uses this approach regularly now, calling it the Social Equity Value Analysis (SEVA).

What implications are there for grant funding?

HDR’s SEVA reveals important new insights for the value of a project. In some cases, the results of SEVA can find a net positive value of a project even when a traditional analysis does not. Such information can support local and state agencies when they are making a case for federal funding. While grant programs still use standard benefit-cost analysis results, they also seek supplemental results from distributional analyses like SEVA. Infrastructure owners

can also use these results to demonstrate their efforts in achieving benchmarks for benefiting underserved populations. In the current competitive funding environment, this additional layer of economic analysis can be a generational differentiator.

Read more about this approach in an extended Q&A at https://www.hdrinc.com/insights/experts-talk-social-equityvalue-analysis.

Chris Behr is a principal economist at HDR who established the SEVA approach and Cathy LaFata is HDR’s transportation equity director.

INDUSTRY PARTNER

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Ideas transform communities At HDR, we’re helping our clients push open the doors to what’s possible, every day.

Proud supporter of COMTO

hdrinc.com

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC WORKS The Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW) develops, coordinates, and operates Miami-Dade’s transportation networks with the goal of improving mobility to create a safer, more resilient, connected and sustainable community for our residents, businesses and visitors.

VISION

To be the world’s best provider of transportation options.

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DTPW, through its employees, will enhance the quality of life of MiamiDade County residents, businesses, and visitors by delivering safe, clean, efficient, reliable, sustainable, and equitable public transportation infrastructure and services.

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 Invest in Our People: Create a culture

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@GoMiamiDade miamidade.gov/transportation

Experience the Future of Travel at MIA! With our historic Modernization in Action (M.I.A.) Plan, we’re gearing up to welcome approximately 77 million travelers and move five million tons of freight by 2040.

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2024 CELEBRATING WOMEN WHO MOVE THE NATION

13th Annual COMTO Celebrating Women Who Move the Nation (CWWMN) Awards

Breakfast took place on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery in Washington, DC. This year we honored 10 women for their outstanding leadership and exemplary dedication to the transportation industry.

The 2024 honorees encompass a diverse spectrum of multi-modal transportation, spanning both the public and private sectors. These women embody excellence – despite their various areas of influence and affiliations, the significance of their contributions to advance and fortify our nation’s infrastructure is unparalleled.

Monica Backmon

Donna Berry, PE

Veronica O. Davis, PE

Dr. Shelley Francis

CEO, Northern Virginia Transportation Authority

Deputy Director of Project Delivery and Chief Engineer, California Department of Transportation (Caltrans)

Director of Cities Program for AtkinsRéalis

Co-Founder, Managing Partner, EVNoire

Gloria Frank

Carmencita Mitchell

Chief of Police, Port Authority New York, New Jersey

Chair, Palm Tran Service Board, and Palm Beach State College

Rear Admiral, Ann C. Phillips

Administrator, U.S. Maritime Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation

Yovannie Rodriguez, Esq. A.A.E

Janice R. Thomas

Charlotte Shaw

Deputy Executive Director, External Affairs, METRA

Executive Director/CEO MAX Transit, Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority

Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer, Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

! s e e r o n o H 4 2 0 2 s n o i t a l u t a r g n o C 27

PUTTING OUR KNOWLEDGE TO WORK As a people-centric company, Lochner’s purpose is to empower our team to put their knowledge to work, enhancing communities across the nation.

Founded in 1944, Lochner is a trusted infrastructure services provider for aviation, surface transportation, and water clients across the nation.

Explore opportunities with Lochner and our Family of Companies at www.hwlochner.com.

A STRONGER

VOICE FOR EQUITY Kiewit and its subsidiaries are committed to driving action toward a more diverse, equitable and inclusive industry. We partner with small businesses and employ professionals from all backgrounds because it is vital to the success and health of our industry and to the communities we build.

As a COMTO Bronze Level Industry Partner, we proudly support and join COMTO as a voice for equity in transportation, as well as all construction and engineering markets.

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MOU & COLLABORATIVE PARNERS

State DOTs Seek to Enhance Equity Within Transportation Infrastructure Across the country, state departments of transportation are using a number of tactics – some old and some new – to enhance the incorporation of equity within the infrastructure projects they oversee.

is also part of Oregon DOT’s continued commitment to social equity and helps build equitable pathways for many underserved residents over a consistent barrier they face: taking time off without pay.

“This is all part of how state DOTs are evolving as stewards of the nation’s transportation system as they make equity, safety, and mobility for all the cornerstones of the work

The North Carolina Department of Transportation is using a suite of artificial intelligence or AI services to expand mobility access for the traveling public.

they do every day,” explained Jim Tymon, executive director of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.

That agency is using AI to conduct “sentimental analysis” to help the agency make better equity decisions within the transportation system planning process and they are expanding language options for North Carolina’s diverse communities and using advanced interpretation services in airports and public transit hubs.

For example, the Utah Department of Transportation enhanced the way it manages community engagement events for upcoming infrastructure projects.

When UDOT held outreach events regarding the environmental impact study on a project to upgrade Interstate 15 between Farmington and Salt Lake City, it made sure to provide study materials in both English and Spanish; deployed Spanish speakers for direct outreach to communities and for public meetings; offered free transportation via Uber and Lyft to in-person public meetings; provided child care services at those meetings; and provided free meals at those meetings – all in an effort to deepen community engagement and gain vital feedback on that highway project.

The Oregon Department of Transportation utilizes its Equitable Engagement Compensation Program or EECP to guide some of its outreach efforts.

That program pays Oregonians who provide feedback to the agency about its projects or initiatives. The EECP 32

Additionally, the District of Columbia Department of Transportation has been refining an equity analysis tool over the past two years to better identify mobility needs for historically under-resourced groups within the national capital area.

Those are but some of the many instances where state DOTs are bringing an “equity mindset” to the projects under their purview, in recognition that transportation infrastructure has the power to uplift communities and improve lives, noted AASHTO’s Tymon.

“It’s also about state DOTs working with local governments, transit agencies, and the broader transportation community to identify and share best practices on equity, diversity, and inclusion,” he noted.

“This is something our members want to do more of.”

MOU + COLLABORATIVE

The American Public Transportation Association congratulates the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials on another banner year of serving as the voice of equity in transportation.

MOU & COLLABORATIVE PARNERS

Sometimes Leadership Means Getting Out of the Way (and thoughts on finding future leaders) Some time ago, I heard a past president of IBTTA describe what his perspective on leadership is. He explained that his practice was something like this:

1. assign an objective to his workforce, 2. ensure they are equipped with necessary resources to accomplish the charge, and then,

3. “get out of the way.”

What an adroit approach.

This leader’s philosophy provides for an important positive outcome. From the jump, it requires that he not be the showrunner. Instead, it calls forward his followers to step in and become leaders themselves as they execute a project.

His “getting out of the way” strategy is one of intention that helps attract, retain, and develop workforce within an organization.

Counter-intuitive to what we often imagine a leader does – direct, orchestrate, command – by “getting out of the way,” team players are more inclined, more inspired, to “get off the bench.” Employees won’t always share everything about their capabilities in the workplace. Sometimes they need to feel welcomed and encouraged to contribute. But even when short on bandwidth, unexcited by a project, or fearful of failing, which individual doesn’t want to show off a hidden talent or develop a special skill?

So, where do you find future leaders and develop your workforce?

An obvious go-to is your own mentoring or internship program. Now, don’t be embarrassed if you don’t have one.

(Ain’t nothing wrong with copy-and-pasting from what you’ve learned works well within another organization.)

Stay well-connected to scholarship winners in trade associations. You “believe the children are our future,” and you don’t want to just sing about it, you want to be about it.

They’re scholarship winners and they want you to put them in, coach, once they graduate.

Send talent to immersion programs. IBTTA’s Foundation just celebrated its sweet sixteenth year of the Leadership Academy, a week-long executive development program for toll industry managers to hone leadership skills and be coached in a collaborative learning environment. Get you one of those.

There are surely other examples, but I’ll leave you with this Optimus Maximus: Invest in the professional growth of your workforce.

During a recent IBTTA event, one presenter told a story of a colleague who feared, “If we let them get education, they’re going to leave.” She challenged back, “Well, what if they don’t get educated and they stay?” Set your workforce up for success for themselves and for your organization.

By Terri Lankford, Membership and Business Development Manager, IBTTA

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Envisioning the Future of Transportation The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority has set four strategic priorities for leading change.

PEO PL E

C O N N EC TI O N

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I N NOVATION

Setting the framework to transform our vision into reality.

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MOU & COLLABORATIVE PARNERS

Latinos In Transit: Empowering Diversity in the Transportation Workforce Since its inception in 2016, Latinos In Transit (LIT) has been on a mission to propel Latinos and other minorities into executive positions within the transportation sector. With its distinctive logo pins proudly displayed on the jacket lapels of its members and a vibrant buzz surrounding its networking events, LIT has seen remarkable growth over the past two years. Membership has grown by 368 percent and spans across 39 states. As the organization’s influence extends beyond national borders, it prompts reflection on the driving force behind

celebrating the achievements of its supporters, fostering a powerful sense of community and a “si se puede” motivation.

Complementing this initiative is the annual Leadership Summit distinguished by its diverse panels. The summit has garnered widespread popularity, selling out last year’s

its success.

The commitment of its members to the organization’s mission is unwavering, driven by a genuine passion and a deep sense of belonging. However, the transportation sector still grapples with a significant lack of Latino representation.

Nevertheless, LIT’s growing membership reflects a strong interest among Latinos in pursuing careers in transportation.

Through targeted programming, LIT is actively collaborating with transit agencies, companies, nonprofits and associations nationwide to address this disparity.

In 2024, LIT established a Workforce Task Force to enhance professional development, offering quarterly trainings and a resume repository of its members for recruiters.

Simultaneously, its legislative committee advocates for inclusive policies, such as addressing language requirements for CDL testing, to create equitable opportunities within the industry.

At the heart of LIT’s expansion is the Leadership Academy, a pinnacle professional development initiative. Guided by esteemed Latino industry leaders, it provides invaluable mentorship and cultivates a strong sense of belonging.

Now in its third year, the LITLA program boasts 138 participants and graduates, spanning from newcomers in transit to top executives and board members. Noteworthy is LIT’s practice of showcasing its graduates and 36

event in Washington, D.C., and is poised to do so again in Portland, Oregon, this September. Both programs prioritize economic accessibility, with minimal or no-cost participation fees to remove financial barriers and ensure inclusivity for all.

This year marks a pivotal moment for the organization as it prepares to reassess its strategic plan, steering towards sustained influence and innovation. With the public transit industry increasingly acknowledging the profound advantages of LIT membership, a journey towards a more diverse and inclusive workforce emerges. Within the LIT community, solidarity reigns as members rally behind one another, poised to celebrate with an “!Adelante!” for Latinos and all minorities rising within the industry.

By: Christina Villarreal, Latinos In Transit Executive Director

MOU + COLLABORATIVE

Metro proudly recognizes the strength of diversity that moves transportation forward.

To learn more, visit metro.net.

24-1972bg ©2024 lacmta

COMING SOON

MOU & COLLABORATIVE PARNERS

Building Bridges: Equity & Opportunity in Early Workforce Development It’s time to ignite the spark of curiosity in the next generation of transportation pioneers. At this moment in our industry, there is a growing momentum to integrate practices that advance equity and diversity, address systemic disparities, and create opportunities and resources for all communities. This momentum extends to education and workforce development, the bridges to equitable opportunities and a future workforce ready to run our nation’s transportation systems.

Association and the American Road and Transportation Builders Association, includes the “How We Move” (2) and “How We Move Goods” (3) lesson cards. These cards engage students with exciting facts and visuals that empower them to explore different modes of transportation while practicing critical thinking.

Preschool Curriculum MTI has partnered with preschool educators and parents of preschoolers to develop curriculum introducing children aged four to six years old to developmentally appropriate transportation concepts. Through songs, imaginative play, crafts, and excursions, children learn about the systems that move people and goods across the world. Lessons include building toy vehicles from recycled items, practicing safely using crosswalks, and trying on different careers by playing pretend as an air traffic controller, bus driver, and more.

Future Generations

Investing in programs that start at the earliest levels can build a pipeline of talent that reflects the diversity of our communities. MTI has long sponsored middle and high school programs, but has more recently focused on developing programs for younger students. Even the littlest individuals can learn about transportation to understand daily life, increase safety and environmental awareness, promote critical thinking skills, and foster curiosity and excitement about diverse roles and professions in transportation.

These programs meet children where they are in the moment, recognizing and fostering their curiosity and potential no matter who they are. These programs equip students with the knowledge and skills to shape their own lives and the future of transportation in a way that is inclusive, sustainable, and equitable for everyone.

1 https://transweb.sjsu.edu/elementary-lessons

2 https://transweb.sjsu.edu/how-we-move-cards

Elementary Lesson Plans In partnership with elementary school educators, MTI developed a fun STEM-oriented unit aimed to get first through sixth grade students excited about the importance of transportation. These engaging lessons are available on our website for anyone to download and use entirely for free! They cover sustainability, high-speed rail, the history of transportation, and more (1). A portion of this program, developed with the American Public Transportation 38

3 https://transweb.sjsu.edu/how-we-move-goods-cards

MOU + COLLABORATIVE

Meeting the Moment, Together From our employees to our leadership, the Long Beach Transit team proudly reflects the dynamic communities we serve. Our diversity has always made us stronger—and continues to do so in this moment and moments to come.

ridelbt.com

MOU & COLLABORATIVE PARNERS

The Transportation Research Board (TRB), under the sponsorship of its Standing Committee on Equity in Transportation, will be convening the 2nd Conference on Advancing Transportation Equity (CATE 2024) in Baltimore, Maryland from July 15-18, 2024.

Through non-traditional presentations (e.g., photos, artwork), lectern presentations, panel sessions, workshops and roundtable sessions, and posters, the conference seeks to bridge the gap between transportation equity analyses that agencies conduct and conditions on the ground.

The first day of CATE is an “unconference”—meaning participants work together to propose topics and create the agenda the day of the event. For both the unconference and the remaining conference program, CATE organizers expect up to 600 participants from a variety of sectors and roles in the transportation profession. After the conference, material including session recordings, presentations and speaker bios, and a conference summary report will be publicly available on the conference website.

COMTO has contributed to CATE 2024 by being a conference patron, serving on the planning committee, and assisting with development of a session focused on mobility, equity, and reconnecting communities. According to Traceé StrumGilliam, AICP, who is chair of the Equity in Transportation committee and COMTO Maryland board member, “COMTO continues to be the voice of equity across the transportation industry including in the TRB space. COMTO leadership partnered with us to host a plenary session at the first CATE (held virtually in 2021) that was inspiring. I look forward to working with April Rai and her team to plan yet another

phenomenal session. The COMTO Maryland and COMTO DC chapters will serve in our volunteer corps during the conference as well.”

The first theme of the first CATE, which attracted more than 900 participants, was “Bridging the Divide between People, Research, and Practice.” Key outcomes, provided in a conference summary/action brief, include submissions of research needs statements that identify gaps in transportation practice where study could be carried out.

The conference website lists the different sessions and presentations as well as 20 TRB co-sponsoring standing committees that are making CATE 2024 possible. TRB welcomes COMTO members to get involved as a “friend” of the Equity in Transportation Committee and any of the other co-sponsoring committees. Being a friend means you are on the committee’s email list, can attend committee meetings, and participate in committee activities. To become a committee friend, first create a MyTRB account then you can sign up to become a friend.

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CONGRATULATIONS

TO COMTO

FOR ITS ANNUAL MEETING AND TRAINING CONFERENCE!

The Missouri Department of Transportation is proud of its partnership with COMTO. Together, we build connections with Missouri’s minority and disadvantaged communities.

■ MoDOT is now hiring in all areas of transportation at www.modot.org/careers.

■ Upcoming Design-Build projects and improvements to Interstate 70—offer contract opportunities to DBEs across the state.

Want to learn more? Contact MoDOT’s External Civil Rights division at: DBE@modot.mo.gov.

NCDOT proudly stands as a member of COMTO and the pioneering force behind the reestablished COMTO North Carolina Chapter.

Join us in driving equity forward as we champion key initiatives that pave the way for a more diverse, inclusive and accessible transportation landscape.

MOU & COLLABORATIVE PARNERS

Mr. Reeves Henry

Not much is known about Mr. Reeves Henry, an accomplished blacksmith, philanthropist, and inventor who lived in Forney, Texas until his death in November 1930. Mr. Henry repaired the first gas-powered automobile in the state of Texas in October 1899. Mr. Henry was well known throughout the Northern region of Texas as a mechanical genius and a great inventor. In 1907 Mr. Henry applied for a patent for an improved cotton chopper that separated seeds from the plant, and that patent was approved by the U. S. Patent Office in 1908.

Not unlike all African American family stories passed down from generation-to-generation. The significance of Mr. Henry’s many accomplishments and contributions for the state of Texas would have been lost to the Jim Crow archives of historical omissions and misrepresentations had it not been for the tireless work and dedication of his grandsons, the late Lt. Colonel George H. Jackson, and his great grandson Mr. Jimmy Malone retired Senior Manager of Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART).

In 1990 the Texas Historical Commission erected a marker in downtown Forney, Texas. The marker narrative corroborates the story about the gas-powered automobile incident in October 1899 traveling to the State Fair of Texas in Dallas for a National Confederate Day event. All the particulars are mentioned about the incident with one exception, Mr. Henry’s name is mysteriously omitted.

Meanwhile, in 2006 the Texas Historical Commission in Austin, Texas launched a program called “Unforgotten 42

Heroes,” designed to honor women and ethnic minorities provided they met the commissions official criteria. The Spellman Museum in Forney, Texas submitted Mr. Henrys name at the urging of Mr. Malone. The good news is that out of a hundred and fifteen names submitted from across the State of Texas, Mr. Henry was one of the thirteen applicants selected. The Texas Historical Commission will award Mr. Henry a marker devoted to his many contributions and accomplishments. The marker will be erected near one of Mr. Henry’s former shops in Forney, Texas. The Spellman Museum has also created a special exhibit that displays the life of Mr. Henry. This has been a particularly important struggle for my family. We always knew that GOD would create a platform to show the many contributions of Mr. Henry. All I can say now is “Look at GOD.” For all monetary contributions visit: ReevesHenry1899 FoundationInc.com (and/or) tzdkim@yahoo.com

Mr. Jimmy Malone Retired Senior Manager of Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART).

Great grandson of Mr. Reeves Henry

Written by Texas Metro News

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Save These 2025 Dates!

2025

NMTC

2025 AWARDS CEREMONY

May 21, 2025 Washington, D.C.

COMTO National Meeting & Training Conference

July 12-15, 2025 New York City

STAY IN TOUCH! COMTO HQ

CONTACT US 202-506-2917 info@COMTO.org www.COMTO.org @COMTOHQ @COMTOHeadquarters

COMTO HQ 4121 WILSON BLVD SUITE 901 ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA 22203

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CONFERENCE OF MINORITY TRANSPORTATION OFFICALS 4121 Wilson Blvd Suite 901 Arlington, Virginia 22203