WTS-DC 2024 Honorable Ray LaHood Awardee, former Federal Highway Administrator and current US Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at AtkinsRealis, Shailen Bhatt will share his career journey and lessons learned along the way. From being appointed in his last position, differences in working in the public sector and now working for a private company, and where transportation technology is headed. Shailen will share some advice on leadership and mentorship and there will be time for questions from attendees.
Maryland Department of Transportation Acting Secretary Samantha J. Biddle will moderate the conversation. Samantha J. Biddle started serving as Acting Transportation Secretary in August 2025. Previously she served as Deputy Transportation Secretary since 2023. Acting Secretary Biddle has spent nearly two decades in the transportation industry, serving in both the public and private sector. She currently leads the successful management of the Maryland Department of Transportation’s Secretary’s Office and six transportation modes spanning transit, highways, airport, port, tolling and motor vehicle services. Acting Secretary Biddle also guides the Department in enhancing safety, prioritizing reliable and sustainable travel across the state’s extensive transportation system and driving Maryland’s economy. Acting Secretary Biddle is a proud supporter of WTS; she is a Director-at-Large for the Baltimore Chapter, serves as a mentor in their Young Professionals Program and was named WTS Baltimore’s Woman of the Year in 2024.
Light appetizers and drinks will be served.
Transportation Details:
Parking is available in the garage located beneath the building, and validation will be provided. The office is located near the King St/Old Town Metro Station, approximately a 7-minute walk away.
Thank you to AtkinsRealis for their in-kind sponsorship of this event!