WTS

Event Highlights: Small Business Speed Networking

On October 22, 2025, WTS-LA hosted its third annual Small Business Speed Networking Event at Caltrans District 7 Headquarters, bringing together public sector leaders, prime contractors, and small business enterprises (SBEs) for a morning of connection, insight, and actionable opportunity. The event, featuring speakers from Caltrans, City of Pasadena, LA Metro, Long Beach Transit, and Metrolink, was designed to foster new relationships and open doors for SBEs in the transportation sector.

WTS-LA_Networking

Sponsored by Arellano Associates, ADP, Lyft, STV, CR Associates, and Impact Sciences, the morning began with a panel, moderated by Genoveva Arellano, President & CEO of Arellano Associates, which provided updates from public sector agencies on upcoming procurement opportunities in professional services and construction. Attendees then participated in a dynamic speed networking session, connecting primes and small businesses in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. Panelists included: 

  • Kelly Lamare, Caltrans District 7, Deputy District Director, Division of Program/Project Management
  • Jenny Cristales-Cevallos, City of Pasadena, Deputy Director for Department of Transportation
  • Elke Campbell, LA Metro, Deputy Executive Officer of Diversity & Economic Opportunity Department
  • Majed Albokaei, Long Beach Transit, Senior Buyer
  • Donald Mayes, Metrolink, Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Liaison Officer

Key Themes and Takeaways

  • Commitment to Small Business Growth: Panelists emphasized their agencies’ ongoing commitment to supporting SBEs through targeted programs, mentorship, and streamlined procurement processes.

  • Navigating Regulatory Change: A major topic was the USDOT’s Interim Final Rule (IFR) and its impact on disadvantaged and small business programs.

  • Upcoming Procurement Opportunities: Each agency shared a preview of upcoming projects.

  • Reducing Barriers and Fostering Innovation: Audience questions centered on making procurement more accessible for SBEs. Agencies are raising pre-qualification thresholds, simplifying submission requirements, and piloting new approaches to insurance and bonding.

  • The Power of Partnership: Panelists and attendees alike stressed the importance of partnership—between agencies, primes, and SBEs. Primes were encouraged to engage with a diverse range of small businesses, recognizing the community impact and agility SBEs bring to the table.

The Small Business Speed Networking Event underscored that, even amid regulatory shifts, the region’s transportation agencies remain deeply committed to SBE inclusion and opportunity. By fostering open dialogue, sharing resources, and building lasting partnerships, WTS-LA and its partners are helping to ensure that small businesses continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of transportation in Southern California.

See more photos of the event HERE.