WTS International News

New Member Webinar

Join WTS International for the Fall 2022 New Member webinar on October 25, 2022, from 1-2pm. Attendees will learn how to access and utilize member benefits and further get involved. Register here: https://www.wtsinternational.org/events/fall-2022-new-member-webinar.

Fall Membership Campaign

From October 3 through October 31, WTS International is offering 10% off new membership with promo code FALL22. To take advantage of this offer, visit the WTS International website. Already a member? We encourage you to share your #WTSStory and the benefits of membership with those around you, including discounted or waived registration fees to WTS events nationwide and access to a large network of women transportation professionals.

Program Recap

July – FHWA Overview of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

On July 26, 2022, the WTS Central VA chapter hosted a virtual overview of existing and new programs included in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) in collaboration with FHWA Virginia Division Administrator, Thomas Nelson Jr., PE. The program also covered new discretionary grants that are part of the BIL.

July – DIY Terrariums and Networking

On July 25, 2022, the WTS Central VA chapter hosted a social and networking event at PlantHouse. Board members, chapter members, and guests were able to explore their creativity and mingle.

August – Building Virginia's Electric Vehicle (EV) Infrastructure

On August 17, 2022, the WTS Central VA chapter hosted a panel event discussing EV charging infrastructure, alternative fuel corridors (AFC), and equity components related to site selection. Attendees heard from experts Angel Deem, VDOT Chief of Policy; Laura Schewel, StreetLight Data Co-founder and CEO; and Brad Shelton, Michael Baker International Transportation Planning Manager.

Save the Date

2022 WTS Annual Reception and Recognition Awards

You are invited to our greatest celebration of the year! Join the WTS Central VA Chapter for the 2022 Annual Reception and Recognition Awards on Wednesday, September 28 from 5:30pm-7:30pm. This event will take place at the Virginia War Memorial and feature remarks from our keynote speaker and 2022 Woman of the Year Cathy McGhee, Chief Deputy Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). We will also recognize other award winners for their contribution and commitment to WTS and the Central Virginia region. Register here: https://www.wtsinternational.org/events/central-va-2022-annual-reception-recognition-awards.

2023 Board Nominations

WTS Central Virginia is now soliciting nominations for the 2023 Board of Directors for the following positions:

• President
• Vice President
• Treasurer
• Secretary
• 3 Directors-at-Large

Terms run from January 1 to December 31, 2023. Nominations will be accepted through September 30, 2022. Submit a nomination here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeG4nHl-zUd2x1VQ1oNRcbUSwDCMNY_7X8slrlSNTi_ycqi5w/viewform.

Transportation YOU – Girls in Transportation Workshop

In support of the Central Virginia Chapter's Transportation YOU initiative, the Girls in Transportation Workshop will be held on Wednesday, October 12th from 9 AM - 3 PM at the Libbie Mill Library in Henrico, VA. All Central Virginia Middle School girls between grades 6th - 8th are invited to register for this FREE workshop event for hands-on experience with transportation professionals and learn more about exciting projects within the Commonwealth.

Registration is limited to the first 40 students. Lunch will be provided for all attendees, along with a certificate of participation as an excused absence with school. Transportation to and from the workshop is the responsibility of the parent/student, but a GRTC bus stop (Libbie Lake South at Libbie Mill Library) is located next to the venue for those looking to utilize public transportation.

Register for the workshop here: https://www.wtsinternational.org/chapters/central-virginia/transportation-you/upcoming-transportation-you-events. For additional information, questions and/or concerns, please contact Savannah Amor Kappeler at [email protected]. 

Elevating Inclusion Excellence Featuring Dr. Katrina Hutchins

Join WTS Central VA, Charlotte, DC, Hampton Roads, NC Triangle, and South Carolina for a Diversity and Equity Event featuring Dr. Katrina Hutchins on October 25, 2022 from 11:00am-12:30pm. The virtual session will focus on “Elevating Inclusive Excellence” by exploring the research-backed reality that humans have a fundamental need to belong, are incredibly sensitive to their social context, and are strongly motivated to remain in good standing with their social group and avoid social exclusion. PDH and AICP credit will be offered for this event. Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/elevating-inclusion-excellence-featuring-dr-katrina-hutchins-tickets-388714123407.

2023 Southeast Rail Forum

Southeastern States Department of Transportation Rail Divisions and the WTS North Carolina Triangle Chapter are jointly hosting a regional forum on rail issues focused on seven Southeastern states. It will be held in Arlington, Virginia at the Crystal Gateway Marriott next March.

Image

Kudos Corner

2022 WTS Central Virginia Award Winners

Each year, WTS recognizes members, women, and employers who embody the WTS pursuit of transportation excellence through the achievement and success of women. We are excited to announce the 2022 WTS Central Virginia award winners!

• Woman of the Year, Cathy McGhee
• Member of the Year, Sadie Pope, EIT
• Rosa Parks Diversity Leadership Award, Timmons Group
• Employer of the Year, StreetLight Data
• Innovative Transportation Solution, Transportation Navigator: Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation

Read the news release here: https://www.wtsinternational.org/news/2022-recognition-awards-winners

Please join us at the 2022 Annual Conference and Awards Recognition event to honor the award winners.

Congratulations, Cathy McGhee!

The Virginia Department of Transportation has appointed Cathy McGhee as VDOT’s Chief Deputy Commissioner. Join us in congratulating Cathy on her new role!

Welcome to the following new members of the WTS Central VA Chapter!

• Michaele White, Virginia Department of Transportation
• Cathy McGhee, Virginia Department of Transportation
• Katelyn Kleinschmidt, Virginia Tech (Student)

Summer Intern Alert

Scholarships are Free Money!

The Central Virginia Chapter offers local scholarship awards in the amount of $500 for each of a number of Scholarship categories for eligible recipients ranging from high school girls interested in undertaking careers in transportation; junior college scholarships for women pursuing transportation-related study at community and trade colleges; and scholarships for graduates and undergraduates pursuing degrees in transportation.

WTS's vision is the transformation of the transportation industry through the global advancement of women. To facilitate that goal, the next generation of leaders must be fostered and supported in their pursuits. Our Scholarship Program is one way that we demonstrate support.  Please encourage future leaders in transportation careers and your summer interns to apply!  Applications are now being accepted and can be found on WTS Central Virginia website.

Join a Committee!

Make the most of your membership by joining one of our committees. Committees include communications, sponsorship, membership, programs, scholarship, etc. Currently, our communications and sponsorship committees have unfilled chairperson roles. If you're interested in taking a more active role within the chapter, please contact our Chapter President, Muriel Rodriguez, at [email protected].

Thank You to our 2022 Sponsors

Image