As I begin my term as WTS-Boston President, I’d like to start off by saying a big THANK YOU to everyone who has volunteered their time and expertise to WTS-Boston.  One of the reasons our Chapter is so successful is because of our volunteers.  We are very fortunate that our Chapter runs like a well-oiled machine, but we didn’t get here by chance, we got here because of all the hard work that our leadership and committees have done over the last 40 years.  I look forward to maintaining the momentum our Chapter has for offering meaningful and relevant programming, growing our membership, and, as always, advancing women in transportation.

As I noted at the December Luncheon Seminar, WTS-Boston recently held a strategic planning session with leadership.  Three of the top goals we will focus on for the next two years include:

• Providing a diverse, equitable, and inclusive selection of events and resources for all with a focus on young professionals in all fields of transportation,
• Expanding the reach of WTS to areas of the public sector to encourage involvement, and
• Staying relevant during the everchanging restrictions due to the pandemic so we can continue to meet the needs of our membership.

The goals are ambitious but necessary to ensure that we are changing as the industry changes and empowering our upcoming leaders. Adapting to the idea that more work and school will be conducted remotely, along with the fact that there are 4 generations in the workforce, we will be brainstorming over the next few months to develop creative ways to expand our reach and host interactive and relevant programs.

I would like to encourage all of you who are not involved yet, or maybe those who took a break, to take a look at our many different committees, reach out, and get involved in something you are passionate about. I am a firm believer in you get out of it what you put into it. So, don’t be shy, be adventurous.  Our committees are always looking for new members and fresh ideas.

Feel free to reach out to me or any of WTS-Boston leadership if you have any questions or ideas you want to share with us.

Wishing everyone a happy, healthy 2021!

Marie Sullivan, PE
WTS-Boston President