COMTO SoCal Spring 2021 Quarterly Newsletter

2021 Q1 NEWSLET TER

ISSUE 2

WHEN WOMEN LEAD Celebrating Women’s History Month

PA R T N E R I N G S P O N S O R

CO M M IT TE D

TO D IVE RSIT Y HNTB values a variety of perspectives that stem from a diverse workforce and reflect our communities where we live and work. We support COMTO’s efforts to advance transportation by maximizing opportunities for minorities within the infrastructure industry, including our work with minority business partners, our commitment to training young professionals and fostering real-world experiences for interns.

The HNTB Companies Infrastructure Solutions hntb.com

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COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter | Spring 2021

President’s Note PRESIDENT’S NOTE

As COMTO SoCal continues to shine a light on the progressive and talented leaders within Southern California, we acknowledge the contributions to our vast transportation portals of rail and roadways, aviation, ports, and transit systems. It is befitting that we highlight the women trailblazers who bring bold, creative change to the transportation industry in SoCal. We have chosen to celebrate and honor the contributions of a few spectacular women in the transportation industry who, through their leadership, has had a direct influence on the strategic planning, development, growth, and direction of our public agencies and prominent businesses in the state and nation.

The transportation industry has long recognized the importance of women and their contributions to the workforce. However, the historical forefront of social and political issues in our nation and globally have always been a barrier for working women. Efforts to bridge the divide of equality have garnered centuries of fighting in the name of Feminist Rights. From the Equal Pay Act of 1963 and the Equal Rights Amendment of 1972 that banned discrimination based on sex to the most recent #MeToo movement, which brought attention to sexual abuse in the workplace. While we are still fighting fiercely for equality—on all fronts--, we must also celebrate the progress and those who help get us here. I say “us” because everyone, including men—no, especially ‘us’ men, have been positively affected by the progressive movements women have made. Women’s History Month allows us to acknowledge the women who have laid the foundation for building upon today, while also assessing and contributing to the roads being created right in front of [all of] us.

As a child, my mother took me into her office on the weekends as she designed and engineered. I had no idea that years later, her work might set the tone for my career. I knew there was something special about my mother’s work and her attention to detail. As we drove around the streets and highways, she would often point out, “A woman did not design that because it would’ve been right the first time.”

While each honoree’s journey varies, one trace of similarity exists. Each honoree listens with intent and educates and leads with purpose. As stewards within leadership, our honorees recognize the influential roles they play in ushering in the next generation of leaders.

As women in leadership, they are working to incorporate the global call for diversity and inclusivity that empowers stakeholders to set strategic and scalable goals to attain equity and access for all. To that end, we present you our tribute to all the women in our industry.

Yours truly,

Demauris Terry COMTO SoCal President Chief Operating Officer, BA, Inc.

Spring 2021 | COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter

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BZConnects Celebrates Women’s History Month and all COMTO Honorees BZConnects is a new platform aiming to change the way small and large businesses do business with one another. We help large corporations find well-qualified certified small businesses and support small businesses in a variety of ways from certification to proposal/bid production.

Launching April 22, 2021 ~ Visit our website to learn more www.BZConnects.com | Follow us on social media! @bz-connects

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@bzconnects

COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter | Spring 2021

Hello Progress At HDR, we’re helping our clients push open the doors to what’s possible, every day. hdrinc.com

CHANGING THE FACE OF ENGINEERING parsons.com

Spring 2021 | COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter

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Table of Contents President’s Note......................................................... 3 Featured Article: Women Leaders Impacting Southern California.......................................................7 Women Shaping COMTO SoCal.............................12 Special Feature: Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace by Dr. Giovanna Brasfield, Flatiron....... 27

MISSION

COMTO’s mission is to ensure that there are opportunities and participation in the transportation industry for minority individuals, businesses, and communities of color through advocacy, information sharing, training, education and professional development.

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COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter

Featured Article: Women Leaders Impacting Southern California Featured Article

WOMEN LEADERS IMPACTING SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Spring 2021 | COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter

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CARRIE BOWEN

California Highway and Roads Leader | HDR

Carrie Bowen has served in a variety of public and private sector leadership positions in large, complex organizations, addressing the needs of multiple constituencies and delivering regional transportation solutions throughout her thirty-five years of legislative, environmental and transportation experience. Prior to joining HDR in 2018, Carrie was the Caltrans Director for District 7 in Los Angeles and Ventura where one of her priorities was providing contracting opportunities for DBE/SB/DVBE firms and working with the Mentor/Protégé program.

At HDR, Carrie is inspired by colleagues and the initiatives they’ve implemented to elevate diversity, inclusion and equity, internally and externally. For instance, HDR’s Christine Lee provides a monthly newsletter that highlights DEI learning and activities; the California

Young Professionals Group provides networking opportunities for up-andcoming practitioners; and externally, HDR’s Foundation has supported several nonprofit organizations, including the Long Beach LGBTQ+ Center.

Advisory Consortium, and the Port of Long Beach Academy of Global Logistics at Cabrillo High School. In the process, she’s recruited HDR and other industry professionals to join as valuable mentors.

Throughout her career, Carrie has advocated for equity and representation of underserved populations in transportation. With her proactive leadership, Caltrans D7 Small Business Program grew by more than 18% in five years. In 2018, Carrie received the WTS-LA Chapter Rosa Parks Diversity Leadership Award and in 2019, she was nominated and received the SoCal COMTO Rosa Parks Award.

Many SBE/DVBE’s that Carrie works with or supports benefit from HDR’s technical and administrative trainings through the formal mentor-protégé programs of transportation agencies, including: LA Metro, Metrolink, Caltrans, Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) and more. Additionally, HDR’s Lara Paulino and Laura Grams helped design a customized, year-long program tailored to address proteges’ core growth needs.

Serving on several boards has provided Carrie the opportunity to mentor and give scholarships through California Transportation Foundation, Metrans

Carrie shares her colleagues’ and clients’ passion for delivering projects that improve mobility, livability and are inclusive and sustainable.

Brief/Highlighted Career Timeline

Today

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HDR’s California Highway and Roads Leader

2019

Recipient of COMTO SoCal Rosa Parks Award

2018

Joined HDR, Inc.

COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter | Spring 2021

2018

Recipient of WTS-LA Chapter Rosa Parks Diversity Leadership Award

2013- 2018

Director of CalTrans District 7 in Los Angeles and Ventura

Get to know Carrie

My name is (name) Carrie Bowen and I am the (title) California Highway and Roads Leader of the most (adjective) Unrivaled organization/agency here in Southern California. The people who work with me would describe me as (adjective)_as a change agent who collaborates, but outside of work, people would describe me as (adjective) generous and inclusive.

In my tenure at (company noun)HDR , I have come across so many (adjective/ noun) talented people who have (verb) enhanced my life. One being (name) Moshik “Mo” Mah, who taught me that when life gives you (noun) rain, (verb) share your umbrella! It is wonderful to know there are many like Mo in our world.

CB speaking at bicycle conference

CTD7 Continues to have scholarship program for High School students

The best advice I would give to anyone wishing to join our industry is to always (action phrase) listen, trust your gut and never(action phrase)pass up an opportunity to try something new even if it is not in your area of expertise, this is when you will learn the most.

One thing I really hope to do more in my current role is (action phrase) to bring leaders and practitioners from agencies and organizations together to collaborate on transportation solutions.

When nobody is looking, I often (describe action) sing/dance until (phrase) someone notices.

I (action verb) joined COMTO SoCal because (action phrase) It is imperative that minority-owned businesses are an essential part of creating the plans and laying the foundation for equity in terms of funding at the transportation table.

You need to join COMTO SoCAL now.

CB picks up litter on Earth Day

Carrie

Spring 2021 | COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter

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EILEEN RYDER

Business Development Director, Parsons, Southern California

Eileen is a business development professional with 25 years of experience that spans transportation, environmental, financial, and water/ wastewater services and infrastructure.

Her role is connecting teams of professionals to support and deliver solutions for private and public sector clients.

Early in her career, Eileen served as a Community Relations specialist for a large A/E firm, where she developed communication strategies, established community advisory boards, and organized public meetings and political briefings for projects in environmental

clearance or remediation. Next, she pivoted to the financial services industry, where she led a quality assurance department in the M&A field. Part of her group was located in Mumbai, India, so this was her first foray into “virtual” meetings.

Returning to the A/E industry, Eileen delved into marketing and business development for consulting firms in Los Angeles. Her membership with COMTO Southern California has been critical to building her professional network and connecting with transportation leaders and business owners.

As Business Development Director for Southern California with Parsons, Eileen is responsible for enhancing client relationships, identifying sales opportunities, and coordinating Parsons’ industry and civic engagement. She works closely with Parsons’ leadership team and colleagues across all business units to support growth and excellence in the Southern California region.

Brief/Highlighted Career Timeline

Today

Today

Business Development Parsons

2019

TRB Women’s Issues in Transportation Conference Steering Committee

10

2010-2020

2016

Joined COMTO (Emerging Leaders committee in 2017 and 2018)

Marketing and business development for URS, AECOM, Stantec

2011

Joined WTS Los Angeles Board

COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter | Spring 2021

2008-2009

Owned/Operated a DBE-Certified Firm

2000-2008

Worked for a Financial Service Firm

1995-2000

Community Outreach for URS

Get to know Eileen My name is (name) Eileen Ryder and I am the (title) Business Development Director of the most (adjective) amazing organization here in Southern California.

The people who work with me would describe me as (adjective) collaborative, but outside of work, people would describe me as (adjective) insightful.

Eileen Speaking at TRB Presentation

In my tenure at (company noun) Parsons I have come across so many (adjective/noun) positive people who have (verb) Inspired Me. One being (name) Lisa Maurath, who taught me that when life gives you (noun) an opportunity, you (verb) go for it.

The best advice I would give to anyone wishing to join our industry is to (action phrase) join COMTO (action phrase) Get Involved.

Eileen with SoCal COMTO Leaders

One thing I really hope to do more of in my current role is (action phrase) meet people in person! When nobody is looking, I often (describe action) make another cup of coffee until (phrase) I need to turn my Teams camera on.

I (action verb) value COMTO SoCal because (action phrase) its advocacy and opportunity for connections! You need to join the organization now.

Eileen Spring 2021 | COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter

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Women Shaping COMTO SoCal

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COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter | Spring 2021

Spring 2021 | COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter

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Women Shaping COMTO SoCal (In alphabetical order) Row 1 Kathie Allen, Project Accountant, Hatch LTK Tina M. Backstrom, P.E., Sustainable Campus Manager, Los Angeles World Airports Shalonda A. Baldwin, PMP, SPHR, Executive Officer, Administration, LA Metro Dianna Barba, Field Engineer II, Skanska USA Civil West Felicia Bell, CPCM, Project Procurement Manager/Small Business Advocate, Bechtel Corporation Janayre Bertrand, Transportation Operations Supervisor, LA Metro Carrie L. Bowen, California Highway & Roads Leader, HDR Engineering, Inc. Dr. Giovanna Brasfield, ECMCA, Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion, Flatiron Construction – Southwest Division Leticia Chacon-Magana, Marketing and Talent Acquisition Manager, Morgner

Sumire Gant, Board of Directors, Long Beach Transit

Maria Morris, AICP, PTP, Senior Transportation Planner, Stantec

Gwendolen Gray, Project Controls Director & Vice President, HNTB

Tina Moschetti, Vice President, Transportation, Stantec

Cynthia Guidry, Director, Long Beach Airport

Christal Murray, Quality Assurance Document Control, Morgner

Roza Gurevich, CCM, Quality Control Manager, Morgner

Victoria Osaji, Office Manager, Crenshaw/LAX Transit Project, Stantec

Michele James, President, Avery James Inc. Row 3

Theodora Oyie, President & CEO, Mindful Integration of Construction Services

Debra Johnson, CEO, Regional Transportation District, Denver

Eun Park-Lynch, Chief Financial Officer, North County Transit District

Judy Johnson, Vice President, Jacobs

Lara Paulino, Vice President, Area Business Development Leader, HDR Engineering, Inc.

Dr. Julie Kim, Financial Advisory Special Projects, Morgner Christine Lee, Transportation Group Communication Specialist, HDR Engineering, Inc. Omoné O. Livingston, MSCE, CCM, PMC, CMC, ENV SP President & CEO, O2EPCM, Inc. Mary Macias, Contract Administrator, HDR Engineering, Inc.

Marion Jane Colston, Senior Director, Strategic & Organizational Planning, LA Metro

Mimi Marsh, Field Technician,, Crenshaw/LAX Transit Project, Stantec

Maddy D’Alfonso, Marketing Assistant, Morgner

Anita Matthiesen, Senior Scheduler, Transportation, Stantec

Row 2

Lisa Maurath, Senior Vice President, Business Development, Parsons

Mary Driscoll Senior Contracts Manager, Crenshaw/LAX Transit Project, Stantec Carita Ducre Managing Partner & Senior Consultant, Insight Strategies Gabrielle Dujué, LEED AP BD+C, Senior Project Manager, Hill International, Inc. Jacquelyn Dupont-Walker, Board of Directors, LA Metro Noa Durban-Zaidenstadt, Brand Manager, Morgner Teri Fisher CEO & Managing Partner, Insight Strategies

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Teresa M. Maxwell, Compliance & Outreach Manager, Skanska USA Civil Patrice McElroy, Chief Human Capital & Development Officer (Interim), LA Metro Row 4 LaShondra Mercurius, CEO, JLM Strategic Talent Monique Morgner, CEO & President, Morgner

COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter | Spring 2021

Don Phravorachith, President, Neo Design Concepts, LLC Swathi Prabhu, Project Manager, Morgner Row 5 Joy Rohadfox, CEO, Rohadfox Construction Control Services Schenae Rourk, President & CEO, Redwood Resources Eileen Ryder, Business Development Director, Southern California, Parsons Avygail Sanchez, Government Relations Director, VP, West Division, HNTB Maureen Sassoon, DPA, CIH, Corporate Health & Safety Manager, Morgner Edna Stanley, 1st Vice President, COMTO SoCal Marcy Szarama President & CEO, Destination Enterprises, Inc. Regina Talamantez, PE, CEO/ Principal Engineer, RT Engineering & Associates, Inc. (RTEA) Vayakone Terry, Director of Corporate Development and Strategy, Morgner

Kennya Thornburg-Craft, Office Manager, West Side Purple Line 1 Project, Stantec Mary Toutounchi, P.E., Vice President, Hill International, Inc. Row 6 Gabriele Turner, Client Services Specialist, BZConnects Kim Turner, Transit Director, Torrance Transit System Flora Vahdati, PE, Project Manager, Hill International, Inc. Valeria Velasco, Vice President, Board of Airport Commissioners, Los Angeles World Airports Charlyne Vivanco, Office Manager, BA, Inc. Janee Weaver, Compliance Officer, North County Transit District Sherry Weinmeier, PE, LEED® AP BD+C, Principal, Transportation Planning & Traffic Engineering, Stantec Stephanie Wiggins, Chief Executive Officer, Metrolink Jonaura Wisdom, Chief Civil Rights Officer Office of Civil Rights & Inclusion, LA Metro Shiva Wooton – Highway Project Manager, HDR Engineering, Inc. Janet Yee, Sr. Talent Development Specialist, LA Metro and COMTO SoCal Secrtary

THANK YOU to the strong, amazing leaders who participated in our “When Women Lead” Issue. Happy Women History Month!

Proudly awarded $97 million in 121 contracts teaming with women owned disadvantaged business enterprises in LA since 2014

Women Leaders Building Southern California!

Skanska thanks COMTO for supporting women leaders in our industry including our own #buildingwhatmatters in Los Angeles: • Renata Ali • Nanette Garcia • Alejandra • Mahsa Safaei • Joanna Amador • Jackellyn Garcia Lizarazaburu • Christiana Salvosa • Jackie Andrews • Chiedza Garcia • Veronica Manzo • Sofia Sandoval • Dianna Barba • Juliette Gonzalez • Eloisa Marshall• Lena Shammas • Joan Barnett • Jessica Gonzalez Cox • Sarah Stadfelt • Karyzma Barragan • Nikki Gumbs • Teresa Maxwell • Kimberly Taylor • Brenda Beck • Susan Hankins • Rachel Maya • Madison Tippit • Wendy • Trinidad • Romaina McLeod • Ariana Viramontes Bracamontes Hernandez • Patricia Navarro • Kim Watson • Connie Brown • Nicole Holliday • Pamela Ortega • Di Zhang and others!

• Diana Diaz • Chelsea Jackson • Sandy Perez • Veronica Diaz • Stephanie • Lara Petrossian • Monica Estrada Krakower • Elizabeth • Cela Gallagher • Kasey Li Rodriguez Spring 2021 | COMTO SoCal Quarterlyusa.skanska.com Newsletter 15

MARION JANE COLSTON

Senior Director, Strategic & Organizational Planning | LA Metro

Marion Jane Colston, serves as the Senior Director, Strategic & Organizational Planning for Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LA Metro), where she leads a team of talented and dedicated professionals responsible for filling positions with the highest quality candidates to meet LA Metro’s business needs. In this role, her team oversees the company’s Transportation Gateway Programs which introduces the next generation of the workforce to careers in transportation. Marion has resumed leadership of the Next Generation Workforce Development Programs, working with internal/ external stakeholders to build a diverse and inclusive culture by offering summer high school internships, college internships and entry-level training opportunities to recent college graduates.

Ms. Colston joined Metro in 1995 and has served in various leadership roles to include the Manager of Strategic Planning and Organizational Development, Manager of Human Resources Development and Training, Director of Organizational Development and Training (OD&T) and more recently, the Sr. Director, Strategic & Organizational Planning.

Marion and her team have partnered to lead, develop, and implement the company’s many strategic initiatives to include Strategic Planning, Team

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Development/Team partnering, Climate/Employee Surveys, MTA’s Diversity Taskforce Chairperson, Diversity Training, Co-Chair MTA’s Morale Taskforce, Talent reviews and succession planning. Marion and her team created and delivered industry leading talent Development programs, including the company’s Transportation Leadership Academy, Metro’s Emerging Professionals, and Leadership Symposiums. In addition, to overseeing and managing Metro’s $2M training and development budget and directed LA County’s Signal Synchronization training program.

Prior to joining LA Metro, she served as Chief Officer of Quality Assurance for the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) Subway-Elevated System. Where she began her career in transportation as a Transportation Management Trainee and received three promotions over a seven-year period before becoming Chief Officer. Before changing careers to becoming a transportation professional Ms. Colston held positions as a Contract Liaison for the Delaware County Office of Services for the Aging, and held a four-year position as an Academic Counselor with Widener University, located in PA, where she worked with Trio Programs (i.e. Upward Bound and Act One). In 2014, Marion participated and graduated from California Connections a Southern

COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter | Spring 2021

California Leadership Network which is sponsored by the Los County Chamber of Commerce. In April 2012, Marion was invited to present at the 1st National Transportation Workforce Summit, convened in Washington, D.C. Marion has served as the 2nd Vice-President for the San Fernando Valley Leadership Institute and was the former President of the Southern California Regional Chapter of the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO). In 2009, Ms. Colston received the National Transit Institute’s Achievements in Transit Training Award for partnering with Metro’s Construction Department and the Los Angeles Community College District in recognition for designing and developing a Model Program entitled, “Sustainability Awareness.”

More recently, Ms. Colston was one of LA Metro’s FY20 Service Excellence Awardees for Teamwork. She is a current graduate and member of the 2019 African American Board Leadership Institute (ABBLI) Program.

Ms. Colston currently sits on three Transportation Research Board Subcommittees: Knowledge Management and Strategic Planning, located in Washington, D.C., she is the Education and Training Sub-Committee Board Chair, for the Southern California Regional Transportation Training Consortium (SCRTTC).

Get to know Marion My name is (name) Marion Jane Colston and I am the (title) Director , Strategic & Organizational Development & Planning for LA Metro here in Southern California.

The people who work with me would describe me as (adjective) strong work ethic, but outside of work, people would describe me as (adjective)people person, and one

Brief/Highlighted Career Timeline 2015-Present

Today

Sr. Director, Strategic & Organizational Planning

2020

2019

Graduate & Member of 2019 African American Board Leadership Institute (ABBLI) Program

2014

Graduated from California Connectors at SoCal Leadership Network

2012

In my tenure at (company noun)LA Metro and SEPTA, I have come across so many (adjective/noun) public/ private sector professionals who have (verb)influenced my life. One being (name)Howard H. Robert, who taught me that when life gives you (noun) an Opportunity, (verb) never sacrifice your integrity for expediency.

Recipient, FY20 Service Excellence Award for Teamwork

Director, Strategic & Organizational Planning, LA Metro

who lives integrity and delivers on promises . . . every time.

2012

Presenter, 1st National Transportation Workforce Summit 2nd Vice President San Fernando Valley Leadership Institute President, COMTO SoCal

2009

The best advice I would give to anyone wishing to join our industry is to always be (action phrase)

honest, forward-thinking, competent, and inspiring (action phrase)and never stop believing or investing in people and never ask anyone to do something you would not do yourself.

One thing I really hope to do more in my current role is (action phrase)

advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion because there are four generations in today’s workforce and there is no substitute for experience, “we can each learn from one another”.

I (action verb) have been an active supporter of COMTO SoCal because (action phrase)because I have been

Recipient, National Transit Institute’s Achievements in Transit Training Award

1995

Joined LA Metro

1995<

Chief Officer of Quality Assurance, SEPTA

a 30-yr . member of the national organization and I like the new direction the local chapter and national organization has taken. You

need to join COMTO SoCAL now.

Marion

EUN PARK-LYNCH, CPA, CMA Chief Financial Officer | North County Transit District

Eun Park-Lynch is the Chief Financial Officer of the North County Transit District (District) and holds a Master’s Degree in Accountancy from San Diego State University. She is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a Certified Management Accountant (CMA).

Eun has been serving the District for over four years, where she began her career as a Controller. She leads the Finance Division, which is responsible for the financial oversight, grants management, fare collection, capital program, and the operating budget for the District.

For fiscal year 2021, the District has a capital budget of $39.5 million and an operating budget of $127.4 million. Plus, a series of significant

capital projects totaling $154 million are planned in the next five years, which include the procurement of new rail and bus vehicles, signals and infrastructure improvements along the rail corridor, and the construction of a new Convention Center platform for COASTER service in downtown San Diego. Eun is also one of the District’s key contributors in the implementation of a new regional account-based fare collection system that is scheduled to go live in the summer of 2021 under the brand of “PRONTO.”

led the operational accounting and consolidated financial reporting, which included the acquisition of a foreign subsidiary.

Prior to Synteract, Eun was a Senior Audit Manager with Aldrich, a nationally - ranked Top 100 accounting firm of advisors, independent Certified Public Accountants and business consultants.

Her portfolio of clients included forprofit companies in a wide range of industries, retirement plans, and nonprofit and governmental entities.

Prior to joining the District, Eun was the Financial Reporting Manager for Synteract, a global Clinical Research Organization with offices in the United States and Europe that performs clinical trials in sixty-two countries. Eun

Brief/Highlighted Career Timeline

Today

18

NCTD Chief Financial Officer

2017

Joined NCTD as a Controller

2012-2017

Financial Reporting Manager, SynteractHCR

COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter | Spring 2021

2003-2012

Served as the Senior Audit Manager with Aldrich (ATK)

Get to know Eun My name is (name) Eun Park-Lynch and I am the (title) Chief Financial Officer of the most (adjective) dynamic organization/agency here in Southern California. The people who work with me would describe me as (adjective)strong-minded, but outside of work, people would describe me as (adjective) a loving mom and family-oriented.

In my tenure at (company noun) North County Transit District, I have come across so many (adjective/ noun) forward-thinking staff who have (verb)added professional lessons to my life. One being (name)Matthew Tucker , who taught me that when life gives you (noun) Challenges, (verb) act strategically and build support.

The best advice I would give to anyone wishing to join our industry is to always be curious, learn and grow, collaborate, add value, care about what you do (action phrase) and never (action phrase)conform to the minimum.

One thing I really hope to do more in my current role is (action phrase) to support the District in achieving its long-term capital goals.

When nobody is looking, I often (describe action) observe my kids until (phrase) they tell me to stop.

I (action verb) CHeer COMTO SoCal because it (action phrase) provides opportunities to thousands of individuals to participate and be successful in the very important transportation industry. You need to join COMTO SoCAL now.

Eun Park-Lynch

Proudly recognizing the women of Crenshaw

“Stantec is committed to strengthening and amplifying the success of women within the transportation sector.

We’re honored that Forbes recently named Stantec one of America’s Best Employers for Women. Stantec was also recognized on the 2021 Bloomberg Gender Equality Index (GEI) for the second year in a row.”

TINA MOSCHETTI Vice President | US West Regional Business Leader, Transportation

Pictured: Stantec, LA Metro, and other consulting team members working together on the Crenshaw/LAX Transit Project

Empowered Women Power the Future.

Morgner is a certified women, LGBTQ+ owned company.

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COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter | Spring 2021

ACUMEN SUPPORTS WOMEN IN TRANSPORTATION These young innovators will be our next leaders From our financial controller and human resources manager to our professional engineers and technical writers, the women at Acumen have contributed to successful projects that improve transportation infrastructure and mobility in California and beyond. Our Workforce Development Program emphasizes training and outreach to the next generation of workers in a wide array of transportation roles that support systems engineering, program management and project controls.

Alyssa Walker Assistant Engineer – Project Controls

Alex Welch Proposal Coordinator

Acumen is fully committed to advancing women’s careers which makes our company stronger. Want to work for a professional consulting firm that develops its diverse workforce with a compassionate approach?

Let’s save the earth together!

Get in touch at marketing@acumentransit.com and see our open positions at www.acumentransit.com.

Farah Soltane Transit Systems Engineer Spring 2021 | COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter

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JANEÉ C. WEAVER

Compliance Officer | North County Transit District

Janeé Weaver began her career at the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene in 2011. As a Health Policy Analyst, she conducted legislative analysis of State and Federal bills. In 2012 - 2013, she played an integral role in the Affordable Care Act implementation within the state of Maryland by drafting the state’s Medicaid regulations.

In 2014, Janeé joined the WALZ Group in Temecula, California. At WALZ, she analyzed legislative bills and regulations; advised the nation’s top banking institutions on implementing and complying with mortgage laws; and was an active contributor and panelist for WALZ monthly client mortgage and vehicle compliance webinars.

During this time, she contributed to two publications: “Disparate Impact: The Uneven Compliance Burden on Small and Mid-Sized Servicers,” published in DS News; and “Potential Consequences of The Bank of America v. Caulkett Decision,” published in Servicing Management Magazine.

In 2016, Janeé accepted the role of Compliance Officer at the North County Transit District (NCTD) in Oceanside, California. At NCTD she implemented the District’s Comprehensive Compliance Oversight Program.

The program outlines oversight of the District’s compliance with the Federal Transportation Administration, Federal Railroad Administration, and California Public Utility Commission

regulatory requirements. Janeé also oversees the District’s Internal Audit Program that consist of routine financial audits of the District that are reported to the District’s Board of Directors Performance, Administration, and Finance Committee. Janeé also assisted with the mobilization of the District’s rail contract, which was awarded to Bombardier Transportation Holdings, valued at $300 million; and led the mobilization of the District’s bus contract, which was awarded to MV Transportation, valued at $400 million.

Janeé earned her BA from Purdue University in 2006 and her JD from the University of Iowa School of Law in 2010. She is a licensed attorney in the state of Maryland.

Brief/Highlighted Career Timeline Today

NCTD Compliance Officer

Joined the Walz Group, LLC

2016

Joined NCTD as Compliance Officer

22

2011

2014-2016

Contributor, Disparate Impact: The Uneven Compliance Burden on Small and Mid-Sized Servicers, DS News; and Potential Consequences of The Bank of America v. Caulkett Decision, Servicing Management Magazine.

COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter | Spring 2021

2012-2013

Played an integral role in the Affordable Care Act by Drafting the Maryland’s Medicaid Regulations

Health Policy Analyst, Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

2010

Received her JD from the University of Iowa School of Law, Maryland

Get to know Janeé My name is (noun) Janeé C. Weaver and I am the (title) Compliance Officer of the most (adjective) progressive organization/agency here in Southern California. The people who work with me would describe me as (adjective) zealous, but outside of work, people would describe me as (adjective) loyal.

In my tenure at (company noun) North County Transit District I have come across so many (adjective/ noun) hard working transit employees who have (verb) inspired my life. One being (name) Don Curry, who taught me that when life gives you (noun) an opportunity to help others, you (verb) take full advantage.

The best advice I would give to anyone wishing to join our industry is to always (action phrase) be ready to gain knowledge and never (action phrase) forget that people depend on us to get their love ones to their destinations safely. One thing I really hope to do more of in my current role is (action phrase) to have more one on one interaction with our workforce so that they know I’m working behind the scenes to ensure they have the tools to provide safe compliant transportation.

When nobody is looking, I often (describe action) dance until (phrase) the sun comes up.

I (action verb) appreciate COMTO SoCal because (action phrase) it provides a platform for transit professionals to support one another .

You need to join the organization now.

Janeé

DIANNA BARBA

Field Engineer II | Skanska USA Civil West

Dianna Barba grew up in Sun Valley, California, the daughter of two Mexican immigrants and the middle child of three daughters. She attended John H. Francis Polytechnic High School and Stanford University on a full scholarship, awarded by both Stanford University and the Gates Millennium Scholarship Program in 2011. As one of two first generation college students in her family, Diana graduated from Stanford University in June 2015 with a Bachelor’s Degree, and one year later, with her Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering. She was the second in her family, behind her older sister, to earn a Bachelor’s Degree, and the first to obtain a Master’s Degree.

During the summer of her sophomore year of college, Dianna interned for Primestor Development Inc. The following summer, Dianna participated in COMTO’s Careers In Transportation

for Youth (CITY) Internship Program where she was matched with Los Angeles Metro. As part of her internship, she transitioned through different departments in the company and was mentored by great managers who supported her, endlessly.

Thanks to her COMTO CITY internship and the great support and knowledge she received through its program, Dianna realized that she had a strong desire to pursue a career in transportation. Following her senior year, she interned for Skanska USA Civil West where she focused on making a SOE SketchUp model for Flower Station on the Regional Connector project in Downtown L.A. After graduating from Stanford in June 2016, Dianna began working full-time for Skanska USA Civil West in July 2016, transitioning through their two-year Core Competency Training Program and becoming

exposed to different positions on rail, bridge, and highway projects in Los Angeles and Washington State.

Ultimately, Dianna decided to join the Westside Purple Line Extension Project team in July 2018, a Metro project in Los Angeles where she managed the Instrumentation Program as well as the two subcontractors installing and maintaining these instruments, until early 2019. In doing so, she helped ensure that settlement remains below preset threshold values so that both stations and tunnels can be built safely.

Since then, Dianna has been helping manage the commercial aspect of the instrumentation program, while also joining the Changes team, pricing change orders. Starting in mid-2020, she began also managing the Designer on the Westside Purple Line Extension (PLE) project, Parsons Transportation Group.

Brief/Highlighted Career Timeline Today

Skanska USA Civil West Field Engineer II

24

2020

Began managing the Design work on LA Metro Westside PLE Project

2018-2019

Managed Instrumentation Program on Westside PLE

COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter | Spring 2021

2016

Recieved MS Civil Engineering from Standford University Accepted full-time position with Skanksa Civil West

2015

Recieved BS Civil Engineering from Standford University Accepted part-time internship witk Skanksa

2013-2014

Participated in COMTO SoCal’s CITY Internship Program with LA Metro

2011

Received a full scholarship to Standford University and Gates Millennium Scholarship Program

Get to know Dianna My name is (name) Dianna and I am the (title) Field Engineer II of the most (adjective) interesting here in Southern California. The people who work with me would describe me as (adjective) hard-working, but outside of work, people would describe me as (adjective) cheerful.

In my tenure at (company noun) Skanska USA Civil West , I have come across so many (adjective/noun) amazing individuals who have (verb) impacted my life. One being (name) Meraj Ahmed, who taught me that when life gives you (noun) rotten lemons, (verb) throw them away and ignore them.

Dianna Barba Performing Pile Cutoff Calculations

The best advice I would give to anyone wishing to join our industry is to always (action phrase) give it your all and never (action phrase) let anyone tell you or make you feel like you aren’t good enough or don’t belong.

One thing I really hope to do more in my current role is (action phrase) inspire and help others.

Dianna Barba Dressed Up for Wacky Walk

When nobody is looking, I often (describe action) run while listening to music until (phrase) sthe stress I might be feeling has subsid.

I (action verb) admire COMTO SoCal because (action phrase) of everything they have done to help me and other minorities succeed in transportation.

You need to join COMTO SoCAL now.

Dianna

Dianna Barba Celebrating Parents

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COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter | Spring 2021

Special Feature: Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace

by Dr. Giovanna DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION Brasfield, Flatiron IN THE WORKPLACE Special Feature

We sat down with Dr. Giovanna Brasfield, Vice President of Diversity & Inclusion, at Flatiron Construction and asked how Flatiron has improved their internal and external initiatives to establish one of the top Diverse and Inclusive firms in our industry.

Anyone who works in construction knows we’ve certainly made significant strides towards being more inclusive and diverse, but there’s still a long way to go.

As Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) at Flatiron Construction, I am fortunate to lead the charge for D&I. I am guiding several initiatives to promote D&I both at Flatiron and in the construction industry as a whole. I look after initiatives that attract and retain the right people within the organization while ensuring that Flatiron maintains a strong company culture.

I support the Southwest division, but I also provide advisory support to other projects throughout the entire Flatiron organization. The external component to my work is serving as a liaison, working with owners, communities, certified firms, workforce teams, and youth engagement. We started the anti-bullying, no-tolerance policy in 2018, and subsequently launched our Diversity Inclusion Growth Groups or DIGG in 2019.

In the early part of 2020, we reimagined our DIGG initiative to focus on four pillars of growth. We had the chance to brainstorm, expand, and have our employees lead the charge in

partnering with leadership to develop a more inclusive organization.

Currently, we have four strategic pillars and a group of employees dedicated to thinking about each pillar strategically.

We have people of various backgrounds and differences coming together to collaborate on the importance of inclusion to our organization and to better understand how it will assist us to develop, as well as implement actions needed to ensure growth.

Internally, our leaders are asking, ‘what can we do better and how?’ Right now, we’re developing, learning, training, and listening.

The most important, actionable steps that firms and business leaders can take to improve diversity and inclusion is to first, just start! Diversity

and inclusion is an intentional effort that needs to be a priority from the top. In making D&I a priority and communicating, organizations have to be willing to have those often difficult or uncomfortable conversations. Next, which is where we are at now – taking action. Most organizations industry to industry regardless, have a policy or statement, but often overlook the implementation of sustainable actions.

There often needs to be a constant reminder to support the seriousness and importance of diversity and inclusion within the organization, which starts with organizational culture.

With the challenges and injustices throughout our country, Flatiron reinforced its commitment to equity and inclusion by creating an employee resource group. In our development,

Spring 2021 | COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter

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Special Feature across each of our organizations and within the overall construction industry. We thought strategically about how we could attract, retain, grow women in construction by implementing initiatives around professional development conversations.

The project specific Women’s Leadership Network was created in response to this essential need.

we restructured our business resource group, called DIGG, but also launched a space so that our employees could participate and ensure this effort is more than words, but actions that generate results. The motivation

Every month, the leadership network takes on a different topic for professional growth of women. We have a leader that used to come in physically, and now virtually in our current reality, to discuss various topics, such as public speaking, confidence, negotiations, emotional intelligence, personal health, etc. This great initiative is supported by men, who take part as allies and sponsors. That’s the beautiful

The most important, actionable steps that firms and business leaders can take to improve diversity and inclusion is to first, just start! was not, a could do, or a nice to do, but a must do, deeply rooted in a commitment to improve our company culture, business strategy, employee engagement and employee retention and growth.

On one of our projects, we’ve experienced a high level of success by partnering and collaborating with our joint venture partners to implement an employee resource group. Together, members of the Joint Venture team identified resources and professional development needs for more women 28

part about this group. We’re able to educate our male counterparts on the overall needs of women in the industry and together with men and women that’s where real change happens.

From my own personal journey, I would advise future generations of construction professionals to take every single opportunity to listen, grow, and remember that every challenge is a lesson. One will never know where each challenge or difficult situation will lead, so learn.

COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter | Spring 2021

I think about some of the jobs that I've had to do in the past, even in the diversity and inclusion space, where I was challenged. I was willing to lead and take risks. I remember questioning my “why” with every single day and thinking about how difficult it was.

But once I changed my perspective, I became open to receiving the knowledge, guidance, and support from industry experts and leaders within construction. That simple, yet critical mind shift was truly helpful in my career, bringing such elevation to my current senior leadership role.

I believe there's a holistic approach when it comes to one's career. Be willing to invest in you. It’s important to look ahead at your overall career potential and not just focus on your current role, but more so imagine where you would be by diversifying your thinking; a bigger picture to understand how all responsibilities of a project focuses on ultimately meeting budget, minimizing risk, contract implementation, and project on time delivery. To this day, I'm still learning and raising my hand. Because as I understand more about our industry, I get to be a better representative of my company, and I’m more effective when working with owners and interacting with the community and not afraid, but empowered.

I would also tell future leaders to never let the light that shines from within dim.

Opening myself up to opportunities in construction has been the best decision I’ve ever made.

Dr. Giovanna Brasfield

COMTO WILL SERVE AS AN ADVOCATE FOR MINORITY INCLUSION IN ALL ASPECTS OF THE TRANSPORTATION INDUSTRY.

SPONSORSHIP Long-Term Partnership COMTO relies on partnerships with companies and/ or organizations like yours to make meaningful strides within our community. Your support will help us expand our programs, leadership and career training, community engagement, mentoring opportunities, and other special events that touch people’s lives daily. If you are moved by what we are trying to accomplish, despite the pandemic, please consider supporting us by becoming a partner.

If you are interested in partnering with COMTO SoCal, please contact Demauris Terry, COMTO SoCal President at dt@socalcomto.com or by phone at (310) 968-9315.

Available À la Carte Sponsorship Opportunities: COMTO Classics Golf (Please inquire for Sponsorship) COMTO Awards Gala (Please inquire for Sponsorship)

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Become A Partner

MEMBERSHIP As you can tell from our past events, our members include leaders and industry experts from all levels of commerce. When you join COMTO, you gain access to an exclusive national network of transportation industry professionals including free access to all of COMTO SoCal’s Virtual Events.

Membership Levels.................Annual Dues Individual Membership........................................................$125 Student Membership.............................................................. $50 Academic Membership....................................................$1,000 Non-Profit Organization.................................................... $500 HUB Business Organization.........................................Varies Private Sector/Transportation Agency..................Varies Memberships are valid from the date of joining through the end of the calendar year.

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THANK YOU SPONSORS

COMTO SoCal Regional Chapter 1200 S. Figueroa Street Unit 2411 Los Angeles, CA 90015 National Chapter Email: info@comto.org Local Chapter Email: comtosocal@gmail.com www.comtosoutherncal.org Follow us on Social Media 30

COMTO SoCal Quarterly Newsletter | Spring 2021

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