WTS International's Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion initiative promotes a vision of full equity and access for women in transportation. Diversity and inclusion have always been at the core of WTS; this aims to form strategic goals and actionable solutions to attain equity and access. The initiative is led by the Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion Committee of the International Board. 

WTS defines diversity as the inclusion of differences and similarities from all categories of membership including ethnicity, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, geography, and profession. WTS defines inclusion as the action of making sure that everyone is welcomed, involved, and engaged.
 

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Committee 

Committee Charter

The purpose of the WTS Diversity Committee is to define the diversity and inclusion strategic objectives for the WTS organization and its chapters. WTS defines diversity as the inclusion of differences and similarities from all categories of membership including ethnicity, age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, geography and profession.

In 2017, the WTS Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion Committee Charter was adopted and displayed at the 2018 WTS Annual Conference for signature by all attendees as a reminder of the purpose and commitment of the organization. The committee consists of representatives from the WTS International Board of Directors, WTS Foundation Board of Directors, Chapter leadership, and members. 
 

Progress and Transparency 

WTS International is committed to transparency as we expand training and educational opportunities for our leadership, membership, volunteers, and staff; as well as the full transportation sector. Additionally, we are committed to investigating additional ways to be a part of the broader solution.
 

July 2023 | ED&I Committee Update

Read the July 2023 ED&I Committee Update here. (PDF)

 

April 5, 2022  | ED&I Committee Meeting Recap

View the recording of the April 5, 2022 Committee meeting to learn about the new updates and structure of the WTS Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion Committee from Helen McSwain as she steps into the role as Chair. 

 

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Statements from WTS International 
 

2024 WTS Letter from the leadershiP: PRIDE AND PRIVILEGE

"There is danger in ignoring the need for full acceptance. If our industry is to remain a career of choice, the robust buildout of current and future workforces is at stake without embracing inclusive policies. Our communities, and even our place in a global economy, will be affected.." Read our letter on Pride Month 2024 here. 

2023 WTS STATEMENT ON SCOTUS DECISIONS on affirmative action and student debt relief

In June of 2023, the Supreme Court of the United States of America (SCOTUS) ruled on multiple cases, including student debt relief, LGBTQIA+ rights, and Affirmative Action in institutions of higher learning. Read our statement here. 

2023 WTS Letter from the leadershiP: Here, There, and Everywhere

"Certainly, these words perfectly describe the LGBTQIA+ community – longstanding, integral members of every place we live, work, serve, raise families, and so much more." Read our letter on Pride Month 2023 here. 

2022 WTS STAteMENT on SCOTUS DECISION regarding dobbs vs. jackson women's health

"Transportation is Healthcare. Transportation is Access. As an organization dedicated to attracting, connecting, sustaining, and advancing women and those underrepresented in the transportation industry, we will continue to advocate for policies that provide options for women, and all people requiring reproductive healthcare." Read our statement here.

2022 WTS Letter from the leadershiP: Bringing our whole selves 

"At WTS, creating a culture and community around inclusivity and belonging is one of our core values. We strive for an environment where each of our members feels welcomed to bring their full self to our organization." Read our letter on Pride Month 2022 here. 

2020 wts Statement Condemning Racial Injustice Against Black Communities

On June 3, 2020, WTS International released a statement condemning racial injustice against Black communities. Read our statement here.

2020 WTS Message on Why Pride Looks Different This Year

As WTS International celebrates Pride and the diversity of our 8,500 members, it is vital to recognize the intersectionality of LGBTQ+: race, gender, and sexuality. Read our letter on Pride Month 2020 here.