2026 FPTA/FDOT/CUTR PDW & Transit Safety and Operations Summit: Full Schedule

8:00am EDT

2026 Florida Transit Safety and Operations Summit

Monday June 8, 2026 8:00am - 5:00pm EDT

The 2026 Florida Transit Safety and Operations Summit, sponsored by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the Florida Public Transportation Association (FPTA) and hosted by Florida’s Transit Safety and Operations Network (FTSON), will once again bring a slate of expert speakers, opportunities for interaction and engagement with your peers, and enlightening conversation.This...
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Moderators

Paul Goyette

Project Manager, CUTR

Paul Goyette served as the Deputy Director for Lee County Transit in Fort Myers, Florida for several years. With over 25 years of public transportation experience, Paul conveyed a cohesive leadership style to the employees at Lee Tran to support a cross-functional and efficient transit... Read More →

Speakers

Maurice Beard

Contractor, ITLC/TWC

Maurice Beard has more than three decades of experience in the transportation industry. He began his career as a bus operator with the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) in San Jose, California. Throughout his career, Maurice advanced through several roles, including Line Instructor... Read More →

Karitsa Holdzkom

Senior Policy Analyst, International Transportation Learning Center / Transit Workforce Center

Karitsa Holdzkom’s work focuses primarily on providing technical assistance to agencies around key workforce development policies and funding sources available to support them. Ms. Holdzkom also leads work on the Transit Workforce Center’s national apprenticeship network, the... Read More →

Brianna Paauwe

Antonio Harris

Transportation Director, STAR Transit

Antonio Harris has more than 17 years of experience in public transportation and currently serves as Transportation Director for STAR Transit, the fourth-largest public transit agency in North Texas. He also serves as key staff for the agency’s Public Transportation Agency Safety... Read More →

Renita Revere

Monday June 8, 2026 8:00am - 5:00pm EDT
Salons A - D

Meeting

8:00am EDT

FTMC/FAPT Maintenance Session

Tuesday June 9, 2026 8:00am - 9:45am EDT

Magnolia Room

This vehicle maintenance session will provide updates and technical insights from several key equipment and system manufacturers.Wabtec will present the latest developments in their Vapor door, ETO and CLASS systems.CarbonTek will address common issues found within both intake and after treatment systems offering guidance on identifying early warning signs and applying effective corrective...
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Speakers

Chris Porter

Service Manager, Spheros North America

I'm a seasoned field service and technical training professional with over 11 years of expertise at Spheros, specializing in installations, on-site technical support, and team leadership. Skilled in managing field technicians and streamlining service operations, with a proven track... Read More →

Richard Waddington

Owner, CarbonTek USA

Over the last 10 years we have developed a technology based on Hydrogen Gas to removing carbon deposits from engines and reduce aftertreatment issues. Our system is a preventative maintenance program which is very effective on short distance high idle vehicles.

Todd O'Neal

Eddie Patane

Mike Shannon

Webtec

Meet Mike Shannon, part of our Sales & Service South Eastern Region team for the past five years. Mike enjoys boating and golfing outside of work and values the family-like atmosphere here at Wabtec Bus Solutions.
He's proud of the work he does with his Transit agencies, buildin... Read More →

Tuesday June 9, 2026 8:00am - 9:45am EDT
Magnolia Room

Meeting

8:00am EDT

Level Up Your Leadership – Transit Immersion Leadership Experience (TILE)

Tuesday June 9, 2026 8:00am - 9:45am EDT

Salons F & G

Launched in 2022 by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), TILE is a dynamic year-long leadership development program for leaders at all levels. Participants engage in shared learning, innovation, and skill enhancement throughout the program, gaining invaluable insights into partner agencies' operations.Take advantage of our special presentation featuring the Class of 2026 showcasing...
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Moderators

Liliane Finke

President, ExecuCoach360 Training and Consulting, LLC

Dr. Liliane M. Finke, Ed.D., ExecuCoach360 President
As a leadership development consultant, Dr. Liliane M. Finke offers over 25 years of experience in both the public and private sectors and is a seasoned professional with a strong vision and mission to initiate a positive impact on the workplace by supporting the development of indiv... Read More →

Speakers

Stephanie Lewis

Workforce Development Project Manager, USF/CUTR

Stephanie Lewis, M.Ed., is currently a Workforce Development Project Manager and Instructional Designer at the Center for Urban Transportation Research at the University of South Florida. She has a wide range of skills in online and instructor led course development, webinar coordination, video production... Read More →

Robert Dutremble

Director Fleet Maintenance, Jacksonville Transportation Authority

Maria DeJesus

Transit Coordinator, FDOT

Maria serves as a Passenger Operations Specialist III (Transit Programs Coordinator) in the Modal Development Office at the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) in Tampa, Florida. She supports public transportation systems throughout District 7, which includes Citrus, Hernando... Read More →

Candice Kennon

Administrator, Suwannee Valley Transit Authority

Candice T. Kennon, CPM, MSM, serves as the Administrator for the Suwannee Valley Transit Authority in Live Oak, Florida. She brings more than 20 years of experience working within government agencies, with expertise in public administration, budget management, procurement, human resources... Read More →

Douglas Steiger

Assistant Director, Pasco County Public Transportation

Douglas Steiger, is currently the Assistant Public Transportation Director for Pasco County Public Transportation. In his role, he oversees contract negotiation and management, the demand response service program, the agency transit asset management plan, and community outreach... Read More →

Charles Abbatantuono

Senior Planner, LYNX

Charles Abbatantuono is a Senior Planner with LYNX’s Strategic Planning Department. Charles is an Orlando native who has a passion for helping guide development in his hometown sustainably so visitors and residents can continue to enjoy the City Beautiful for generations to come... Read More →

Rachael Cappolla

Executive Assistant/Certified Records Manager, PSTA

Rachael Cappolla is currently the Executive Assistant/Certified Records Manager for Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) in Pinellas County, Florida. She has over 35 years of experience as an administrative professional, working in both public schools and the transit industry. Originally fro... Read More →

Liz Soriano

Project Manager, Collier Area Transit

Liz Soriano is a Project Manager for Collier Area Transit. With over 22 years of dedicated public service experience within Collier County Government, including 7 years in transit Project Management, she brings extensive experience in planning, coordinating, and delivery of construction... Read More →

Sandra Stanley

Miami-Dade DTPW

I am a proud mother of two daughters and a seasoned Miami‑Dade County transit professional with over 30 years of experience in operations, workforce management, and service delivery. I currently serve as Superintendent of Bus Operations, where I lead operator performance oversight... Read More →

Tuesday June 9, 2026 8:00am - 9:45am EDT
Salons F & G

Panel Presentation

8:00am EDT

Securing the Journey: How Transportation Entities Prepare for Large‑Venue Events

Tuesday June 9, 2026 8:00am - 9:45am EDT

Cypress Room

This session will outline a holistic security framework for transportation providers facing high‑profile events, covering critical training such as Active Assailant, De‑Escalation, See Something Say Something, and First Observer Plus. We’ll explore how regular intel briefings from local law enforcement, the FBI, Secret Service, and TSA keep staff informed and agile. Participants will learn...
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Speakers

Paul Meyer

Hans Phifer

Tuesday June 9, 2026 8:00am - 9:45am EDT
Cypress Room

Presentation

8:00am EDT

Comprehensive Guidance on FMCSA USDOT Numbers for Florida Vehicles

Tuesday June 9, 2026 8:00am - 9:45am EDT

Salons A - C

Please join us for this important training, presented by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), that will guide you through the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requirements of obtaining, maintaining, and displaying US Department of Transportation (USDOT) numbers on applicable vehicles. The presenter will explain all relevant...
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Speakers

Charles Smalley

Tuesday June 9, 2026 8:00am - 9:45am EDT
Salons A - C

Training

10:00am EDT

Advanced Air Mobility – The Future of Moving People

Tuesday June 9, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT

Salons A - C

Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) represents the next frontier in transportation—leveraging innovative aircraft technology to enable the safe, efficient, sustainable movement of people and goods at low altitudes. This session will cover the definition, core technologies, regulatory landscape, and commercial opportunities of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). It is designed for professionals who may be new...
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Moderators

Ken Sides

TYLin

Ken Sides is a Professional Engineer licensed by the State of Florida who has spent much of his career as project manager for modern roundabouts and Complete Street projects intended to improve the safety and livability of intersections and streets for both motorized and non-motorized... Read More →

Speakers

Richard Lesniak

Airport Manager, Albert Whitted Airport, City of St. Petersburg

Richard has been with the City of St. Petersburg for over twenty-three (23) years serving in the capacity of Airport Manager during this entire period. In this position, he is responsible for the daily operation and upkeep of the Albert Whitted Airport. This includes maintaining... Read More →

Sierra LePore

Director of Planning, Hillsborough County Aviation Authority

Sierra LePore is the Director of Planning at the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority which owns and operates 4 airports within its system: Tampa International Airport, Tampa Executive Airport, Peter O’Knight Airport, and Plant City Airport. Sierra joined HCAA in April 2024 where... Read More →

Jacques Coulon

Transportation Planning Division Manager, City of Orlando

Jacques leads the City’s efforts on preparing for Advanced Air Mobility and works on a variety of transportation planning efforts including the City’s planned Lake Highland/Alden Road realignment project and Virginia Dr. corridor study. In his current role with the City’s Transportation... Read More →

Santh Sathya

Founder, LuftCar

Santh Sathya founded LuftCar - an autonomous air and road mobility eVTOL mobility company in March 2021. He is also the CEO of LuftCar and serves on its board of directors.

Tuesday June 9, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT
Salons A - C

Panel Presentation

10:00am EDT

Building the Transit Workforce Pipeline: Inside the Transit Core Competencies Curriculum (TC3)

Tuesday June 9, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT

Cypress Room

Transit agencies nationwide are working to strengthen the skills and confidence of their maintenance and operations workforce, both new employees entering the industry and current employees needing upskilling. To meet this growing demand, the Transit Workforce Center, FTA’s technical assistance center for workforce development, developed the Transit Core Competencies Curriculum (TC3), a...
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Speakers

Kristen Ribaudo

Kristen Ribaudo is the Project Manager of Instructional Design at the International Transportation Learning Center/Transit Workforce Center, where she leads the Rail Training Consortiums and Transit Core Competencies Curriculum (TC3) initiatives. With more than a decade of experience... Read More →

Tuesday June 9, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT
Cypress Room

Presentation

10:00am EDT

FTA Drug & Alcohol Testing Program Updates

Tuesday June 9, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT

Magnolia Room

This session will highlight lessons learned from the recent FTA drug and alcohol program audit of nine FDOT sub-recipient agencies and will provide updates on topics such as oral fluid testing, the potential reclassification of marijuana, the addition of fentanyl to the DOT testing panel, and more. The session will conclude with the ever-popular “state of the state” - an analysis of the drug...
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Tuesday June 9, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT
Magnolia Room

Presentation

10:00am EDT

Navigating the ADA Toolkit for Transit Services

Tuesday June 9, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT

Salons F & G

Join Enjoli Dixon for a session on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and how it applies to public transportation services. This session will cover key regulations, standards, and service type requirements, including fixed route bus, demand response, and ADA complementary paratransit services. Learn about vehicle and facility accessibility, accommodating riders with mobility devices, and...
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Speakers

Enjoli Dixon

National RTAP

Enjoli Dixon is the Founder of Mobilitique Consulting, where she provides transportation planning, training, technical assistance, grant writing, outreach, and capacity-building services focused on urban, rural, tribal, and mobility management initiatives. She also serves as an Advisor... Read More →

Tuesday June 9, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT
Salons F & G

Training

12:00pm EDT

General Session: Welcome Luncheon (pre-registration required)

Tuesday June 9, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT

Salons D & E

Relax and network with your peers after the morning of professional development. FPTA, FDOT, and CUTR representatives will be on hand to welcome everyone to this annual event. We will honor the graduates of the Transit Immersion Leadership Experience (TILE).

Speakers

Stephanie Lewis

Workforce Development Project Manager, USF/CUTR

Lisa Bacot

Executive Director, Florida Public Transportation Association (FPTA)

Tony Brandin

Central Office Transit Operations Manager, FDOT

Tony Brandin serves as the State Transit Operations Manager at the Florida Department of Transportation in Tallahassee. Working in coordination with the Center for Urban Transportation Research, Lively Paratransit Instructional Program, and the Crashworthiness and Impact Analysis Laboratory, wh... Read More →

Tuesday June 9, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
Salons D & E

Lunch

1:15pm EDT

Technology-Enabled Service Design for Improved On-Demand Transit

Tuesday June 9, 2026 1:15pm - 3:00pm EDT

Salons A - C

Transit agencies across Florida are exploring tech-enabled, on-demand service strategies to improve operational efficiency, better align service with demand, and respond to changing travel patterns. This session begins with a presentation summarizing a CUTR white paper on emerging on-demand transit service models in Florida, with a focus on service design considerations, implementation lessons,...
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Moderators

Jennifer Flynn

Senior Research Associate, Center for Urban Transportation Research/USF

Speakers

Jarice Rodriguez

Interim Chief of Paratransit Program & Mobility Services, Miami-Dade DTPW

Ms. Jarice Rodriguez serves as the Chief of Paratransit Operations and Mobility Services at the Miami-Dade County Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW), where she leads the County’s paratransit and on-demand mobility programs. She is responsible for advancing the... Read More →

Carlos Cruz-Casas

VP of Mobility Innovation, TYLin | City Solutions

For over 17 years, Carlos Cruz-Casas has been a driving force in urban mobility, delivering transformative projects in both public and private sectors. From pioneering innovative mobility solutions to leading complex bus network redesigns, he consistently improves operational efficiency... Read More →

Tracy Jahn

Tracy Jahn is St. Lucie County’s Transit Operations Manager. She joined the Transit Team in September 2020. Tracy is responsible for overseeing operational and fiscal aspects of the County’s transit system, Area Regional Transit (ART), and other special transit programs... Read More →

Tuesday June 9, 2026 1:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
Salons A - C

Panel Presentation

1:15pm EDT

Drug & Alcohol Testing Program Scenarios & Solutions

Tuesday June 9, 2026 1:15pm - 3:00pm EDT

Magnolia Room

During this interactive session, the speaker will present 5 problematic scenarios that may arise in your agency’s FTA drug & alcohol testing program. Participants will collaborate and discuss how they would respond to the scenario. Speaker will provide regulatory guidance and best practices to help participants reach the compliant solution for each of the testing scenarios.

Tuesday June 9, 2026 1:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
Magnolia Room

Presentation

1:15pm EDT

The Engagement Gap: Overcoming Barriers to Public Involvement in Transit Planning

Tuesday June 9, 2026 1:15pm - 3:00pm EDT

Cypress Room

Effective public involvement is essential for creating a transit system that meets the needs of the communities it serves. In this session, an expert panel will share their insights, and participants will engage in collaborative discussions to explore effective practices for public involvement, share common challenges, and identify practical, real-world solutions to improve engagement. By the end...
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Moderators

Tia Boyd

Research Associate, CUTR

Tia Boyd, AICP, is a Research Associate with the Center for Urban Transportation Research at the University of South Florida. Tia’s work focuses on transportation decision-making with an emphasis on access management, interagency coordination, public participation, strategic and organizational ma... Read More →

Speakers

Jonathan Roberson

Research Associate, Center for Urban Transportation Research/USF

Jonathan Roberson, AICP, is currently a Research Associate with the University of South Florida’s Center for Urban Transportation (CUTR). Jonathan has over twenty years of expertise in transit planning and project implementation, including leadership positions at Manatee County... Read More →

Donny Murray

Donny Murray is the Manager of Community & Business Engagement at Hillsborough Transit Authority (HART) in Tampa, FL. During his 10 years with HART, Donny has been responsible for educational outreach strategy, public involvement, grassroots marketing, and stakeholder engagement to... Read More →

Jason Jackman

Urban Planner III (N/S), Mobility, City of Tampa

Jason Jackman is an Urban Planner with the City of Tampa’s Mobility Department, specializing in multimodal transportation planning and safety initiatives. He brings extensive experience in managing transportation safety campaigns, developing and evaluating micromobility programs... Read More →

Tuesday June 9, 2026 1:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
Cypress Room

Presentation

1:15pm EDT

Transit Asset Management (TAM) – Lessons Learned and Best Practices for Rural Transit Agencies

Tuesday June 9, 2026 1:15pm - 3:00pm EDT

Salons F & G

Transit Asset Management is a strategic, systematic approach to managing capital assets throughout their life cycles to optimize performance, control risks and costs, and ensure safe, reliable, and cost-effective transit service. This workshop highlights practical lessons learned and proven best practices tailored to the distinct operating realities, resource constraints, and unique challenges...
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Speakers

Elizabeth Bechtel

As a transportation planner, Ms. Bechtel has contributed to a variety of transportation projects and activities including transit asset management, transit technology studies, transit systems design, feasibility studies, strategic business plans, grant applications, proposal support... Read More →

Aarion Franklin

Aarion Franklin, Ph.D., AICP is an accomplished transportation planner with experience in transit planning, asset management, and long-range planning. He is an associate vice president with Michael Baker International and currently manages their Florida planning practice. Dr. Franklin... Read More →

Tuesday June 9, 2026 1:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
Salons F & G

Presentation

3:15pm EDT

Successfully Dealing with Annoying People

Tuesday June 9, 2026 3:15pm - 5:00pm EDT

Cypress Room

Have you ever said, “That person drives me crazy!”? Has anyone ever said that about you? We all have people in our lives who pose challenges. However, people can’t drive you crazy if you don’t give them the keys. This training will give you ideas and concrete practices that you can implement immediately. These proven techniques will assist you in getting along...
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Speakers

Carol Wright Kenderdine

Carol Wright Consulting

Carol Wright Kenderdine is a consultant specializing in leadership development, strategic planning, transit management training, board of director training, business plan development, and transit assessments. She is a nationally recognized speaker and trainer on accessible transportation... Read More →

Tuesday June 9, 2026 3:15pm - 5:00pm EDT
Cypress Room

Meeting

3:15pm EDT

Analytics in Practice: Turning Performance Data into Better Transit Service

Tuesday June 9, 2026 3:15pm - 5:00pm EDT

Salons A - C

This session is supported by the Florida Transit Planning Network (FTPN), and all transit professionals are welcome.The session will focus on the analytical foundation behind operational modernization and system redesign. Panelists will share how they used available data to diagnose performance issues, evaluate trade-offs, and justify redesigning decisions in various operating environments and...
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Moderators

Martin Catala

Program Director, Transit Management and Innovation Group, CUTR

Martin Catala is the Program Director of the Transit Management and Innovation (TMI) Group at the Center for Urban Transportation Research (CUTR) at the University of South Florida, where he brings more than 30 years of experience in public transportation research, planning, and program... Read More →

Speakers

Lamar Hobbs

Transit Program Administrator, Bayway

Lamar Hobbs is the Transit Program Administrator of the Bay County Board of County Commissioner’s Transit Department. Having worked in public service for more than 25 years, Lamar’s vast experience coordinating and leading administrative and operational functions has allowed him... Read More →

Devan Deal

Devan Deal is the Planning and Data Analyst Manager at Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority and holds a Master of Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Florida. At PSTA, Devan leads service planning analysis, performance monitoring, and data-driven reporting to support... Read More →

Tuesday June 9, 2026 3:15pm - 5:00pm EDT
Salons A - C

Panel Presentation

3:15pm EDT

Shared Use Session

Tuesday June 9, 2026 3:15pm - 5:00pm EDT

Magnolia Room

Microtransit services are expanding across Florida as agencies explore flexible, on-demand mobility options. This session will provide a practical look at microtransit services operating in the state through a set of case studies from VoTran, Palm Tran, and Seminole County. Topics will include service planning, operational strategies, and costs, as well as implementation challenges. Session...
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Moderators

Victoria Perk

Program Director, Transit Research Program, CUTR

MA, Economics, University of South Florida, 1993, BA, Economics, Eckerd College, 1992. Specialties: transportation economics, transit system performance analysis, transit development plans, transit service planning, survey design and analysis, statistical analysis.

Speakers

Bobbie King

Director, Transit Services, VOTRAN/Volusia County

Bobbie King (Votran) is a 26-year county employee with Volusia County Government. She currently holds the Transit Services Director position, overseeing Votran. She is experienced in project management, contract management, staff development and is highly regarded for her effective... Read More →

Ronald Jones

Senior Manager of Paratransit, PalmTran

Ron Jones has more than 35 years of experience in the paratransit industry, with hands-on expertise across all aspects of service delivery. He currently oversees Palm Tran Connection, a system that schedules approximately 5,000 passenger trips each weekday across 260 routes.Palm Tran... Read More →

Ji Li

Ji Li serves as the Micro Transit Manager for Seminole County’s Scout program, where he provides day-to-day operational oversight, performance monitoring, strategic planning, inter-agency coordination, and grant development and management.
With 20 years of experience in fixed-route and micro-transit planning and operations, Ji Li previously served as Senior Transit Planner for SunTran in Ocala, Florida. In that role, he successfully secured a $16.1 million Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Low or No Emission Program... Read More →

Kristian Swenson

Assistant County Manager, Seminole County

Kristian Swenson is an Assistant County Manager for Seminole County responsible for providing executive oversight of operational departments, including Environmental Services, Parks and Recreation, Utilities, Fleet & Facilities, and Public Works. These five departments account for... Read More →

Tuesday June 9, 2026 3:15pm - 5:00pm EDT
Magnolia Room

Panel Presentation

3:15pm EDT

Florida Small and Rural Transit Agency Roundtable Discussion – Rural Transit Fleet Mix and Vehicle Size Decision Tools

Tuesday June 9, 2026 3:15pm - 5:00pm EDT

Salons F & G

This session will feature a roundtable format to discuss a variety of challenges and successes encountered by small and rural transit agencies. This session includes a presentation on using a decision tool to support the selection of an appropriate vehicle fleet; further information is provided below. TRIPS staff will be available to discuss the importance of vehicle inspection during the vehicle...
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Moderators

Stephanie Lewis

Workforce Development Project Manager, USF/CUTR

Speakers

Lazara Stinnette

TRIPS Assistant Program Manager, University of South Florida CUTR

Lazara Stinnette is an Administrative Specialist for the Transit Safety and Workforce Development Programs at the Center for Urban Transportation Research working on the Transportation Research Inspection Procurement Services (TRIPS) program. Her primary responsibilities include the... Read More →

Carlton Allen

TRIPS Program Manager, CUTR

Carlton Allen is the TRIPS Program Manager and is assigned to the FDOT Springhill Inspection and research facility in Tallahassee. He has worked for the Center for Urban Transportation Research for 15 years. Carlton also interacts with engineering related to crashworthiness testing... Read More →

Jeremy Mattson

Jeremy Mattson is an associate professor of transportation and supply chain at North Dakota State University. Previously he spent 17 years conducting research on rural and small urban transit with the Small Urban and Rural Center on Mobility, a program of the Upper Great Plains Transportation... Read More →

Tuesday June 9, 2026 3:15pm - 5:00pm EDT
Salons F & G

Roundtable

5:30pm EDT

Evening Reception

Tuesday June 9, 2026 5:30pm - 7:30pm EDT

Waterfall Atrium

As the first day of the workshop draws to an end, please take time to participate in this special two-hour reception that is designed to provide workshop participants the opportunity to network and collaborate with other public transportation professionals in a relaxed environment. For “day trippers,” we encourage you to stick around for the reception and enjoy the interaction with your peers.

Tuesday June 9, 2026 5:30pm - 7:30pm EDT
Waterfall Atrium

Reception

8:00am EDT

Fare Free Frontiers – Successes and Challenges

Wednesday June 10, 2026 8:00am - 9:45am EDT

Salons F & G

In this session, attendees will learn real‑world outcomes of fare‑free programs transit systems. Presentations will demonstrate how each agency approached financial and operational challenges and will highlight key successes. The presenters will provide actionable takeaways on funding models, ridership trends, and stakeholder engagement that can guide any transit agency considering a...
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Moderators

Stephanie Lewis

Workforce Development Project Manager, USF/CUTR

Speakers

Omar Peerzada

Senior Planner, HART

Omar Peerzada is a Senior Planner for the Hillsborough Transit Authority (HART). Omar leads on National Transit Database (NTD) reporting and supports major planning projects and development review on behalf of HART. He has a background in transit operational analysis, collaborative... Read More →

Chris Stephenson

Director of Transportation, Indian River Transit

A proud Texan, Chris was born and raised in the Lone Star State. Chris received his undergraduate degree in Communication and his MA in Non-Profit Business Management from Abilene Christian University. Chris previously worked for Sears Methodist Retirement Systems, the largest... Read More →

Jesus Peraza-Garcia

Planning & Scheduling team, Hillsborough Transit Authority (HART)

Jesus Peraza Garcia is the Manager of Planning for the Hillsborough Transit Authority (HART). Jesus leads in the development of HART's major planning projects and acts as an agency representative for projects impacting the Tampa Bay region. He holds a variety of skills including data... Read More →

Tracy Jahn

Wednesday June 10, 2026 8:00am - 9:45am EDT
Salons F & G

Panel Presentation

8:00am EDT

Transit Vehicle Automation

Wednesday June 10, 2026 8:00am - 9:45am EDT

Magnolia Room

Transit automation technologies have the potential to improve safety, reduce operating costs, and increase convenience of the transit service. An increasing number of transit providers nationwide continue testing and demonstrating passenger vehicles with high levels of automation. Yet, these technologies still face challenges with ensuring adequate safety in all operating conditions, achieving...
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Moderators

Victoria Perk

Program Director, Transit Research Program, CUTR

Speakers

Jarice Rodriguez

Interim Chief of Paratransit Program & Mobility Services, Miami-Dade DTPW

Tim Merzheku

Director of Automation and Innovation, JTA

Tim Merzheku is a Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) and Project Management Professional (PMP) with over 10 years of experience leading complex capital construction and infrastructure programs from preconstruction through closeout, with both project delivery and operational experience... Read More →

Arman Sargolzaei

Assistant Professor, USF

Dr. Arman Sargolzaei's expertise is in applying linear and nonlinear control methods, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to the field of connected and autonomous vehicles. His mission is to enhance the quality of life for people, assuring security and privacy concerns through... Read More →

Wednesday June 10, 2026 8:00am - 9:45am EDT
Magnolia Room

Panel Presentation

8:00am EDT

What’s Really Driving Transit Bus Collisions

Wednesday June 10, 2026 8:00am - 9:45am EDT

Salons A - C

This session will share preliminary findings from the TCRP A-53 study, highlighting key causal and contributing factors identified through national data analysis and in-depth case study interviews. Attendees will gain insight into emerging trends, common risk patterns, and practical implications for improving safety performance across transit bus operations.

Speakers

Gennaro Saliceto

Transportation Safety and Security Specialist, Center for Urban Transportation Research

Gennaro Saliceto is a Transportation Safety and Security Specialist and member of Transit Safety and Workforce Development at the Center for Urban Transportation Research at USF. He collaborates on FDOT funded programs to provide training and technical assistance to Florida agencies... Read More →

Wednesday June 10, 2026 8:00am - 9:45am EDT
Salons A - C

Presentation

8:00am EDT

Leveraging AI Tools in Grant Writing

Wednesday June 10, 2026 8:00am - 9:45am EDT

Cypress Room

As funding opportunities grow more competitive, artificial intelligence (AI) tools are emerging as valuable supports for rural and small urban transit agencies in developing grant applications. Enjoli Dixon will present on how AI can help professionals streamline the grant writing process, from drafting and organizing narratives to identifying funding sources and improving overall efficiency....
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Speakers

Enjoli Dixon

National RTAP

Wednesday June 10, 2026 8:00am - 9:45am EDT
Cypress Room

Training

10:00am EDT

Transit Modernization Playbook: Practical Strategies for Delivering More Efficient and Reliable Service

Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT

Salons F & G

This session addresses the “what” and “why” of transit modernization — exploring how and why agencies evolve their service models. Discussion may include transitions across fixed-route, hybrid, and on-demand service; strategic decision-making under fiscal and performance constraints; implementation realities; and lessons learned from agencies navigating these shifts.Discussion topics...
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Moderators

Jonathan Roberson

Research Associate, Center for Urban Transportation Research/USF

Speakers

Jacob Labutka, MCRP

Planning Manager, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority

Jacob Labutka, as the Planning Manager at PSTA, leads a variety of planning projects such as the agency’s system redesign. He also leads the development of PSTA’s discretionary grant applications such as federal grants for buses & technology programs and state grants for operating support of new services. Jacob oversees several... Read More →

Mansoor Lajmiri

Planner II, GoPasco

Manny Lajmiri brings more than 30 years of transportation planning experience, including planning, development, and implementation of a variety of transportation planning plans and programs. Manny worked at the Pasco MPO for 30+ years developing several Long-Range Transportation Plans... Read More →

Thaddeus J. Davenport

Mass Transit Director, Escambia County Area Transit

Thaddeus Davenport serves as the Mass Transit Director, overseeing Escambia County Area Transit and all public transportation operations for the Mass Transit Department. Davenport brings over two decades of industry experience to the role, with a proven track record of success in strategic transportation... Read More →

Heidi Maddox

Transit Operations Manager, Charlotte County Transit

Heidi Maddox has served as Charlotte County’s Transit Operations Manager since 2023. She directs policy development, ensures contractual compliance, and oversees both long-range planning and daily operations. Heidi has driven key improvements, including implementing scheduling software to reduce... Read More →

Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT
Salons F & G

Panel Presentation

10:00am EDT

Navigating Transit Technologies Roundtable

Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT

Magnolia Room

With transit technology advancing rapidly, it can become difficult for transit agencies to navigate the ever-evolving, complex landscape. Transit agencies can harness technology to streamline operations, enhance service delivery, and improve rider experience. This session will provide practical guidance on evaluating, selecting, and implementing transit technologies, exploring both internal...
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Speakers

Kristin Gladwin

Senior Transportation Planner, Michael Baker International

Kristin Gladwin, Ph.D. is the Senior Transportation Planner for Michael Baker International’s north Florida offices, providing consultant support to FDOT’s Safe Mobility For Life Coalition as well as FDOT’s Public Transit Office. Kristin holds a bachelor’s degree in civil... Read More →

Elizabeth Bechtel

Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT
Magnolia Room

Roundtable

10:00am EDT

Agency-Level Oversight Under Rule 14-90 and the FDOT State Management Plan

Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT

Salons A - C

This session is not about FDOT monitoring you — it is your responsibility to monitor those operating under your authority. Effective oversight is the foundation of a compliant, accountable, and high-performing transit system. This session explores the critical role of oversight in ensuring adherence to federal and state regulations, contractual requirements, and performance standards....
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Speakers

Dean Kirkland-McMillan

Compliance and Oversight Manager, University of South Florida

Mrs. “Dean” Kirkland-McMillan, Compliance and Oversight Manager
Dean has been involved in public transportation for over 35 years Dean has held many positions in the transit industry including Bus Operator, Operations Manager, Executive Director, Safety Security Director, and... Read More →

Laurie Zeruto

Program Oversight Supervisor, CUTR

Laurie has worked in the transit industry for 25 years. Earning her Masters in Social Work from Florida State University, Laurie’s career in transportation began at the Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged. In 2018 Laurie joined the CUTR Compliance Oversight and Technical... Read More →

Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT
Salons A - C

Training

10:00am EDT

Implementing NIST CSF 2.0: A Practical Guide

Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT

Cypress Room

This session provides a real-world, non-technical overview of implementing the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) 2.0 within smaller-sized organizations. Participants will explore the primary differences between versions 1.0 and 2.0, with a specific focus on the Govern function and how it cuts across all other framework functions to manage organizational risk. The course breaks down the six core...
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Speakers

Bhuvan Unhelkar

USF Muma College of Business

Bhuvan Unhelkar is a Professor of information technology in the School of Information Systems, Muma College of Business in Sarasota-Manatee campus. His research focuses on big data strategies/AI, Agile processes and their application in practice. He teaches IT and Project Management... Read More →

Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT
Cypress Room

Training

12:00pm EDT

General Session Luncheon Program – FPTA Marketing Awards (pre-registration required)

Wednesday June 10, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT

Salons D & E

As the workshop draws to a close, join us for the final common session. In addition to delicious food, the general session will provide a great opportunity to relax and network with your peers. FPTA has reorganized all their Awards Categories to make applications simpler and more fair to different sized transportation systems. As part of the reorganization, we are excited to present the winning...
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Speakers

Stephanie Lewis

Workforce Development Project Manager, USF/CUTR

Lisa Bacot

Executive Director, Florida Public Transportation Association (FPTA)

Amanda Baird

Director of Communications and Marketing, PSTA

Amanda Baird is the Director of Communications and Marketing for PSTA, serving St. Petersburg and Clearwater in Tampa Bay. She joined the team in 2021, and immediately dove into the go-to-market strategy for SunRunner, the region’s first bus rapid transit offering. She’s so proud... Read More →

Wednesday June 10, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
Salons D & E

Lunch

1:15pm EDT

Marketing Meeting

Wednesday June 10, 2026 1:15pm - 3:00pm EDT

Salons F & G

In this open forum discussion, we’ll discuss challenges and solutions affecting marketing, communications, and customer experience in transit agencies. Come prepared to share recent wins, ask questions of peers, and collaboratively workshop solutions for increasing ridership, improving passenger communication, maximizing public engagement, and enhancing the rider experience.

Speakers