Chapter Awards
Congratulations to our 2025 award winners!
Member of the Year - Claudia Harris
Claudia has completely revitalized our Treasurer role, bringing clarity to our finances and boosting chapter efficiency. Her creativity, leadership, and passion for WTS shine through in everything she does – from innovative event ideas to supporting fellow board members. We’re so grateful for her dedication and energy!
Woman of the Year - Tiffany Elchert
For 18 years, Tiffany has been shaping Columbus’ streets, making them safer and stronger. As Assistant Administrator of Traffic Management and a past WTS president, she’s not only a leader but a mentor, opening doors for women and future transportation professionals. We are proud to celebrate Tiffany as our Woman of the Year!
Employer of the Year - HNTB
HNTB is leading the way for women in transportation, with 46% of Ohio staff and an incredible 83% of leadership being women. From the Brent Spence Bridge to $50M in Smart Cities funding, their teams are shaping Ohio’s transportation future. Through strong WTS partnerships, mentorship, and inclusive leadership, HNTB is driving real change in the industry.
Honorable Ray LaHood - Toni Turowski
As Deputy Director for ODOT District 6, Toni leads 400+ staff, delivers the state’s largest construction program, and mentors the next generation of leaders. A true advocate for women in transportation, he creates opportunities for growth and advancement while driving innovative projects like the FRA-670 Smart Lane and LINKUS.
Innovative Transportation Solutions Award - Kimberly Baillieul - City of Columbus CLOSE Program
She led the development of Columbus’ CLOSE Program, transforming how road closures are tracked, improving safety and compliance, and earning the city its first Enterprise-level ESIG Award. A true example of innovation driving public service impact!
WTS Columbus Annual Recognition Awards
The WTS Columbus 2025 Recognition Awards are completed - please watch for nomination opportunities in 2026!
Each year the Columbus Chapter honors professionals in our industry with six awards. Refer to the descriptions below for additional details about each award.
Applications are currently closed!
Member of the Year
Acknowledges a WTS Columbus member who has made extraordinary contributions to the success of the organization.
Click Here for nomination application!
Woman of the Year
Honors a woman who is an outstanding role model and has contributed to the advancement of women and minorities in transportation.
Click Here for nomination application!
Honorable Ray Lahood (Man of the Year)
Recognizes a male WTS Columbus member who is a leader in the transportation industry and has contributed to the advancement of women in transportation.
Click Here for nomination application!
Employer of the Year
Honors an organization (company, non-profit association, or government agency) for recruiting, retaining, and advancing women in transportation.
Click Here for nomination application!
Rosa Parks Diversity Leadership Award
Honors an individual, group, or organization that has made significant contributions in promoting diversity and cultural awareness within their organization, the transportation industry, project, or activity that supports the goals and mission of WTS.
Click Here for nomination application!
Innovative Transportation Solutions Award
Salutes the creative work of an innovative transportation project or service led by a woman.
Click Here for nomination application!
For questions, please contact Natalie Sakian at [email protected]