What an incredible evening with WTS Tampa Bay! Our Career Development Panel connected young professionals with experienced transportation leaders for an honest and engaging conversation about building a career. Hannah Bennett of AIM Engineering & Surveying facilitated the panel, where panelists Nicole Johnson, MBA, CCM, CEP, LEED AP; Amber Dickerson, AICP; and Elia Nunez shared candid stories, lessons learned, and reflections on the opportunities and challenges that have shaped their careers.

A few messages stayed with us: Get in the weeds and take your chances. Don’t fear change. Find your helpers. Stay open-minded. Know when you’re ready, and trust that you are good enough. Growth isn’t always comfortable, and sometimes the people or experiences you least expect are the ones that open the next door.

We also looked back at the roots of WTS. Founded in 1977 as the Women’s Transportation Seminar, WTS emerged at a time when women were often discouraged from participating in professional associations unless the activities were considered educational. Women created their own opportunities to connect through “seminars,” supporting one another, building relationships, and helping each other advance.

Nearly 50 years later, that history made the evening’s conversation feel especially fitting. Careers are built by taking chances, continuing to learn, finding your people, and, eventually, becoming that person for someone else.

Thank you to our facilitator, panelists and everyone who joined us for such a fun, honest, and energizing evening!