Feature
WTS International Making a Difference By Peggy Beach
WTS International board members discussed leadership and mentoring at the 2018 Transportation Research Board Annual Conference in Washington, D.C. Pictured left to right: Lisa Loftus-Otway, University of Texas at Austin; Paula Hammond, WSP; Carolyn Flowers, AECOM: Maggie Walsh, HDR; Jannet Walker Ford, Cubic; Bridgette Beato, Lumenor.
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omen working in the transportation industry don’t have to go it alone. They have a tremendous resource – WTS (Women’s Transportation Seminar) International. The international organization, which began in 1977, has 57 professional chapters and 22 student chapters in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, with more than 6,500 members. Every year the organization expands with more chapters in formation stages. WTS is committed to shaping future generations of transportation leaders by offering top quality training programs and professional development opportunities for members and guests. In an interview with Maggie Walsh, board chair for WTS International and vice president at HDR, she talked
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about the many reasons women and men are drawn to the organization and their appreciation for what the membership offers. “Diversity and inclusion are important goals for our industry,” Walsh said. “In recent years, WTS has reached out and is connected to more women in the private and public sectors. Women really value the power of networking.” Mentoring is an important part of the WTS experience. The organization also provides scholarships for young women who plan to enter the transportation industry.
Leadership Development for Women Walsh said: “WTS is focused on creating opportunities for women to get professional development training at all
