The United Nations initiated HeForShe on September 20, 2014 to invite people of all genders to stand in solidarity with women to advance gender equality.  In honor of this important movement, WTS Philadelphia is proud to highlight three of our past Ray LaHood recipients to honor men that embody this movement. The WTS Ray LaHood Award honors the 2009-2013 U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary who, during his term, supported WTS International’s mission and accelerated the gender diversity issue toward more opportunities. The annual award is intended to honor a "man of the year," who has been key to advancing the WTS mission to attract, retain, and advance women in transportation.

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James Maloney, PE, Senior VP, Regional Manager (PA/OH) at JMT: “My approach to improving gender equality within our industry is simple. It’s about finding and creating opportunities for women at all points in their careers to grow and thrive. providing them with both autonomy and support along the way. Two recent examples include hiring Philadelphia-based Sheri Tickner to be JMT’s national buildings and facilities business line leader – a newly created and senior position in our firm – and inviting two emerging leaders (very often female) to have a ‘seat at the table’ at monthly regional leadership meetings to have exposure to and participate in critical discussions and decisions. I’m truly proud of the progress we’re making and grateful for the support of organizations like WTS.”

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Mike Venuto, PE, Chief Bridge Engineer at Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA): “Inclusive environments and diverse perspectives are essential to the success of transportation projects. It's why I am committed to empowering women in engineering, whether they’re part of our team or from the business community, with the resources, support, and opportunities they need to excel in order to build a more equitable future for everyone.”

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Mike Carroll, Deputy Managing Director for Transportation and Infrastructure at the City of Philadelphia: “I have been incredibly fortunate to be guided by women who have been leaders in transportation since the very beginning of my career. Learning from these women helped me appreciate what it takes to overcome challenges imposed by workplace cultures, through family obligations and from social conventions that hold so many capable women back.  I am deeply honored to be acknowledged for whatever role I’ve played in helping my colleagues excel. I am always inspired by the success of people who grow to do great things.  Making the most of the work we do at this vital moment means always creating space for women to demonstrate their talent and realize their full potential.”