WTS

Event Recap: WTS International Conference, Los Angeles, California

The WTS International Conference was held in Los Angeles, California on May 5th – 7th. This year’s theme was “Leading the Way”. The WTS-Boston chapter was well represented with more than 25+ members attending. This year’s Conference brought together industry professionals, emerging leaders, and advocates committed to advancing the future of transportation. Centered around the theme, Leading the Way, the conference provided an inspiring platform for networking, professional development, and meaningful conversations about leadership, innovation, and inclusion.

Screenshot of a large Awards event in gallery view, showing about twenty women dressed in evening wear. The mood appears casual and friendly, with people smiling at the camera.

A highlight of the conference was the keynote presentation by Alana Hill. Ms. Hill shared powerful insights on leadership, communication, and personal growth, encouraging attendees to lead with confidence and authenticity. Ms. Hill focuses on change leadership and inspires others to direct change within themselves. 

It was surprising to see the large amount of Waymo self-driving cars that circled around downtown LA. These Jaguar model vehicles with their eye-catching sensors zoomed around LA using the latest AI technology. 

The vast array of technical tours included a tour of LAX Metro Transit Center, Metrolink Central Maintenance Facility as well as Long Beach Transit (LBT) Water Taxi Tour. We were greeted by LBT staff at the Long Beach dock and boarded the AquaLink Water Taxi for Alamitos Bay. We had great weather and learned about the water taxi service while enjoying the skyline views. 

Group of women smiling on a boat with the water in the background

It was great to see that collaboration is alive and well with WTS International. We watched WTSI renew their MOU’s with both COMTO (Conference of Minority Transportation Officials) and LIT (Latinos in Transit). These connections enrich and make us a stronger organization. 

It was inspiring to attend the WTS Awards Gala and learn about the remarkable accomplishments of both Awardees and Scholarship Recipients. Nice to see former colleague, Randy Clarke (WMATA) receive the Honorable Ray LaHood Award for his promotion of women in the workplace. 
Looking forward to next year’s WTSI Conference for the 50th anniversary in Washington DC. 

-Allison Sweeney

 

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