March 18, 2025

Dear WTS-GNY Members and Friends,

March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the trailblazers who have shaped our industry and to reaffirm our commitment to advancing women in transportation. This year’s theme—“Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations”—perfectly reflects the heart of WTS-GNY. We are a community built on mentorship, leadership, and the belief that when women support each other, we all move forward.

Throughout history, women have played a vital role in shaping transportation—whether as engineers, planners, or policy makers—often overcoming barriers to create a more connected and equitable world. Their contributions continue to inspire the work we do today.

At WTS-GNY, we take this mission to heart by fostering an environment where women at all stages of their careers can grow, lead, and empower one another. By creating opportunities for networking, professional development, and advocacy, we are ensuring that the next generation of women in transportation have the support and resources they need to succeed.

As we celebrate this month, I encourage you to reflect on the women who have inspired your journey and to take action—mentor a colleague, amplify the voices of women in your workplace, and continue advocating for equity in our industry. Together, we are not just recognizing history; we are shaping the future of transportation.

Best,

Ece F. Koch

President, WTS-GNY

This Month

2025 Virtual SBA Series

Series 1: Starting a Business from Idea to Reality

Mar 19, 2025, 1pm - 2pm EDT - virtual

Free for members and non-members

Are you ready to embark on your entrepreneurial journey? Join us for an insightful webinar where you'll learn key information on the rise of entrepreneurs, essential steps to start a business, and innovative business ideas. Gain valuable insights into conducting market research and refining your business concept. Discover how to craft a compelling business plan, explore funding options, and develop financial projections. Plus, uncover the top signs of a great franchise opportunity. Don’t miss this opportunity to turn your business aspirations into reality!

Mar 25

WTS-GNY Appointments Committee Spring Event: Pathways to Success in the Private Sector

Join us for a conversation with women leaders in the transportation and infrastructure industry. This is an opportunity for public sector employees to learn how to position themselves for a private sector pivot and an opportunity for those already in the private sector to get a better sense of how to position themselves for growth.
o Emily Gallo, VP, Dir. of Infrastructure Mobility & Equity, HNTB
o Shari Hyman, VP, Public Affairs, Turner Construction Co.
o Jee Mee Kim-Diaz, City Exec. & VP, NYC, Arcadis; Community Relations Mgr, GDC
o Janice Li, Rail & Transit Market Sector Leader, Arcadis

$20.00 - $30.00

Mar 27

WTS-GNY Women's History Month Happy Hour

As we close Women's History Month, please join the WTS-GNY chapter for a members only happy hour to celebrate all we accomplish every month and every day!

Appetizers and drink tickets will be provided. The $20 ticket cost will be donated to the WTS Foundation which funds scholarships and other student activities.

$20.00

What We've Been Up To

MTA Signal School Tour

The students got the opportunity to visit the training center where the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s (MTA) signal personnel learn to maintain the Signal system, one of the most critical pieces of infrastructure in the MTA’s subway system. They received an overview of the signals system from a New York City Transit employee and view a mock subway track with train signals and switches, along with older and newer transit equipment, such as interlocking machines and relays that are used to train signal personnel.

The Transportation YOU NY Program has several more exciting events scheduled for the students for SY 2024-2025. If you are interested in participating or learning about the Transportation YOU program, or would like to sponsor an event or tour, please contact Fiona Robe (Fiona.Robe@NYCT.com) and Sanam Lakhwara (slakhwara@akrf.com).

Save The Date

WTS-GNY 2025 Spring Dinner

April 30, 2025, 5:30 - 8:00 PM

Club 101

Series 1: Starting a Business from Idea to Reality

Mar 19, 2025, 1pm - 2pm EDT - virtual

Free for members and non-members

Series 3: Starting a Business at 50+

September 18, 2025, 1pm - 2pm EDT - virtual

Free for members and non-members

Series 4: Access to Capital

October 1, 2025, 1pm - 2pm EDT - virtual

Free for members and non-members

Get Involved

WTS-GNY is a volunteer-driven organization, and all of our programming for members and the broader transportation community is made possible through the dedication of our Board Members, Committee Chairs, and volunteers.

Learn More

If you are interested in getting involved, feel free to email us.

Thank you to our 2024/2025 Corporate Sponsors!

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Help us reach our 45th Anniversary Fundraising Goal of $4,500 for 2025!

All donations are committed to the WTS Foundation, which supports scholarships and student programming.

Donate Here!

WTS Foundation is a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions made to WTSF are deductible as charitable donations to the extent allowed by tax law. WTS Foundation is the successor organization to WTS Scholarship.