BOARD OF DIRECTORS
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Michael Atlas
Toronto Transit Commission (TTC)
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Mike Bismeyer
BetterFleet
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Marc Blanchet
Autorité régionale de transport métropolitain (ARTM)
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Wes Brodhead
City of St-Albert
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Karen Cameron
Ontario Public Transit Association (OPTA)
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Josh Colle
Toronto Transit Commission (TTC)
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Wade Coombs
Strathcona County Transit
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Maureen Cosyn Heath
Hamilton Street Railway
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Tyson Cragg
Transit Windsor
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Tony D'Alessandro
Town of Milton
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Melissa Djurakov
Ministry of Transportation (Ontario)
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Barry Dykeman
United Safety and Survivability Corporation
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Sharon Fleming
Calgary Transit
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Dennis Fletcher
Dennis Fletcher & Associates
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Sarina Gersher
City of Saskatoon
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Nicolas Girard
Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC)
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Lynette Griffin
Regina Transit
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Yuval Grinspun
Left Turn Right Turn
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Vance Harris
DIALOG
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Carrie Hotton-MacDonald
Edmonton Transit Service
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Dennis Kar
Dillon Consulting
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Christos Kritsidimas
Nova Bus
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Sophie Le Blanc
Blaise Transit Ltd.
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Tim Luey
Niagara Transit Commission
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Étienne Lyrette
Société de transport de Montréal (STM)
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Chris MacIsaac
City of Airdrie
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Neil Malcolm
Grand River Transit
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Michael McDaniel
TransLink (Coast Mountain Bus Company)
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Jennifer McNeill
NFI Group Inc.
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Lorenzo Mele
ACT Canada
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Alain Mercier
Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC)
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Amy Miller
BusPas
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Lindy Norris
The Routing Company
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Kelly Paleczny
London Transit Commission
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Shilpa Panicker
Watt Consulting Group
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Doug Parker
ARCADIS IBI Group
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Scott Pass
Passenger Contracted Transportation Services Ltd.
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Judy Powell
St. John's Transportation Commission
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Björn Rådström
Winnipeg Transit
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Dave Reage
Halifax Transit
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Marc Rousseau
exo RTM
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Josée Roy
Société de transport de Laval (STL)
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Charlene Sharpe
Fredericton Transit
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Trever Sparrow
TripSpark Technologies
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Karen Thorburn
Toronto Transit Commission (TTC)
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Kirsten Watson
AECOM Canada Ltd.
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Shanon Zachidniak
City of Regina
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Pierre Zivec
Transdev Canada
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Christy Harrold
BC Transit
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Pierre Santoni
VIA Rail
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Heidi Dempster
Brampton Transit
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Ana-Maria Tomlinson
CSA Group
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Christopher Norris
City of Kingston
National Committees
Business Members National Committee (Open to all CUTA business members)
This committee is dedicated to representing the interests of CUTA’s Business Members, influencing the policies, and driving CUTA’s direction. Committee meetings are vibrant forums where your active participation is not just encouraged but valued. The committee’s primary objectives include fostering greater Business Member engagement in CUTA activities, enhancing communication between government bodies and our esteemed business members, and providing unwavering support to CUTA in championing the Canadian public transit industry. Throughout the year, the committee establishes multiple ad hoc sub-committees and task forces, offering additional avenues for its members to contribute meaningfully and make a lasting impact. Join this committee and be a driving force behind the evolution of the Canadian urban transit industry.
To learn more and to join, contact [email protected] today.
Marketing, Communications, and Customer Experience National Committee (Open to all)
The Marketing, Communications and Customer Experience Committee is dedicated to developing and implementing innovative and effective marketing strategies, communication practices, and customer service initiatives. By fostering collaboration among transit agencies, industry partners, and stakeholders, the committee aims to promote public transit as a preferred mode of transportation, improve rider satisfaction, and ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all users.
To learn more and to join, contact [email protected] today.
Government Relations and Advocacy National Committee
The Government Relations and Advocacy Committee focuses on building relationships with government officials, policymakers, and key stakeholders to influence legislation and funding decisions that impact the transit industry. Their efforts include developing policy positions, advocacy campaigns, and representing the interests of transit agencies at all levels of government. Through strategic engagement and effective communication, the committee works to create a favorable environment for the advancement of public transit nationwide.
Workforce Development National Committee (Open to all)
Join this committee if you are interested in workforce development and innovation. This skilled committee is dedicated to promoting best practices through research, training, and information exchange. Join other members of this committee in identifying cutting-edge conference sessions, developing innovative training products and services, and fostering participation in a variety of industry-leading initiatives. From sub-committees and networking group, this committee offers diverse opportunities to make a meaningful impact on the future of transit. Current priorities include workforce development, enhancing CUTA training programs, such as the Careers in Public Transit program, fostering youth engagement, promoting succession planning, building a diverse workforce, and providing leadership training. By joining the Workforce Development National Committee, members will be a part of shaping the future of transit workforce excellence.
Awards and Recognition Sub-Committee
This sub-committee of the Workforce Development Committee oversees the CUTA Individual and Corporate Awards Program. Committee members conduct objective reviews of nominations and select winners in each category. This sub-committee has representation across Canada and currently has 10 members. Join us in recognizing excellence and contributions to the transit industry.
Youth and Emerging Leaders Sub-Committee
The Young and Emerging Leaders Sub-Committee (YELSC) of the Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) meets monthly with the mission to promote public transit as a rewarding career. They focus on attracting young individuals to the industry, retaining their interest, and developing them into future leaders. Several of their key initiatives include the Young Leaders Summit, an annual networking and professional development event, and the Leaders Building Leaders mentorship program that pairs mentors and mentees to foster mutual learning. These efforts aim to build a strong and sustainable future for public transit by empowering the next generation of leaders.
Operations Sub-Committee
This sub-committee of the Workforce Development Committee has as its aim to support operational excellence and innovation in the delivery of transit service. Sharing knowledge and perspectives on operations-related topics, the group will be open to operations managers and directors to gain insight into the changing landscape of operational delivery.
Labour Relations Networking Group
A working group of the Workforce Development Committee, this committee serves as a peer-to-peer discussion forum on current issues related to labour law, managing employee performance, handling grievances, collective bargaining strategies and techniques, collective agreements, operator handbooks, arbitration process and awards, standard operating procedures, diversity, human rights, and accommodation. The group meets every two months except July and August; secure document sharing is provided through CUTA’s Members’ Only Section.
Operator Trainers Networking Group
This working group provides networking opportunities for transit system operator trainers, instructors, and curriculum designers to share best practices, develop solutions, and explore cutting-edge innovations in talent development and knowledge transfer with their peers.
Workforce Development & Operations Networking Group
As a national association, the Workforce Development and Operations Networking group serves as a vital platform for members to collaborate and share information on crucial aspects of workforce management and operations across our industry. Through this committee, members can engage in discussions on various topics such as talent acquisition, labour relations, and training programs. Additionally, they have the opportunity to explore operational challenges and strategies for enhancing workforce efficiency and productivity. By working together to address common workforce challenges like absenteeism and workplace injuries, members can leverage their collective knowledge and experiences to foster a more cohesive and informed industry community. Participation in this committee provides members with the chance to contribute insights, exchange experiences, and strengthen our industry’s network for knowledge sharing.
Labour Relations Roundtable (Private Meeting)
This is an invite-only event held twice a year during CUTA’s annual conference and Spring Summit. The roundtable brings together key stakeholders from public transit agencies to discuss critical labour relations issues, share best practices, and explore innovative solutions. It’s a unique opportunity for in-depth dialogue and collaboration to foster a more harmonious and productive work environment in the transit sector. Don’t miss this chance to be part of impactful discussions shaping the future of labour relations in public transit.
To learn more and to join, contact [email protected] today.
Technical Services
Join the Technical Services Committee and be a part of a unique forum that maximizes the effectiveness of public transit through the encouragement of best practices in the industry from an operational perspective. By joining this committee, members cover topics in areas such as operations, planning, intelligent transportation systems technology (ITS), accessibility, specialized transit, bus design, maintenance, greening, safety, and security.
Maintenance and Vehicle Technology Sub-committee
This subcommittee discusses the maintenance challenges and operational practices that arise in public transit as well as emerging and changing vehicle technologies.
Accessible Transit Sub-committee
This subcommittee discusses the needs and challenges of specialized transit services to promote best practices across the industry.
Data & Analytics Sub-Committee
This subcommittee discusses how to best collect, manage, analyze, and display data that are relevant to public transit.
To learn more and to join, contact [email protected] today.
Transit Board Members (Invite Only)
As a valuable forum for municipal decision-makers, this committee offers an unparalleled opportunity to exchange ideas, share best practices, and tackle pressing issues facing the public transit industry. Membership for this committee is primarily comprised of municipal elected officials and transit agency board representatives and leaders. As a member of this committee, you will partake in identifying and addressing current and emerging municipal challenges, shaping the future of transit policy, and driving positive change in communities across the country. The committee’s collaborative approach fosters meaningful dialogue and empowers members to make informed decisions that impact the lives of millions. Members work to support CUTA’s advocacy efforts and facilitate helpful knowledge-sharing practices on system-related matters through committee updates and external stakeholder engagement. Additionally, committee members help raise awareness for the use of CUTA reports and activities throughout the municipal sector, amplifying a collective voice and advancing the goals of the public transit industry. By joining the TBMC , you will take part in a driving force for progress and innovation in public transit leadership.
To learn more and to join, contact [email protected] today.
Small Systems National Committee
Join the Small Systems Committee and be at the forefront of advancing public transit in Canada and ensuring that large transit systems continue delivering efficient, sustainable, high-quality services to their communities. The Small Systems Committee is dedicated to addressing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by transit systems with fleets of 121 vehicles or less. This committee serves as a forum for representatives from small transit agencies to share best practices, discuss policy issues, and collaborate on innovative solutions to improve public transportation services. Membership is open by request.
Large Systems Roundtable (Invite Only)
Join the Large Systems Committee and be at the forefront of advancing public transit in Canada and ensuring that large transit systems continue delivering efficient, sustainable, high-quality services to their communities. The Large Systems Roundtable is dedicated to addressing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by transit systems with fleets of 122 vehicles or more. Members serve as a forum for representatives from large transit agencies to share best practices, discuss policy issues, and collaborate on innovative solutions to improve public transportation services. Membership is open by request.
Zero-Emissions Bus Committee
Join this committee and be a part of a forum for members to share best practices, lessons learned, standards documentation, and key metrics to facilitate the implementation of zero-emission vehicle technology. The committee has established four workstreams on the topics of Operations, Engineering, Procurement, and Advocacy. The committee meets monthly and is open to all CUTA members. Dedicated workstreams may be restricted to certain members.
Regional Committees
The Regional committees and their sub-committees are open to all active CUTA members in the respective regions.
Join the Québec Regional Committee. Representing the interests of CUTA members in this region, members participate in a proactive forum addressing Québec-specific issues affecting transit systems, manufacturers, and suppliers. Through close collaboration with associations like l’Association du transport urbain du Québec (ATUQ) and l’Association Québécoise des transports (AQTr), you’ll explore topics such as transport electrification, funding mechanisms, sustainable mobility, and transit supply chain resilience. Be part of this dynamic group shaping the future of transit in Québec.
To learn more and to join, contact [email protected] today.
Join the Atlantic Regional Committee. Representing the interests of CUTA members in the Maritime region, members of this committee serve as a platform for exchanging information and ideas about public transit systems in the region. As a member, you’ll actively contribute to advancing CUTA’s advocacy initiatives within the Atlantic provinces and collaborate on shared concerns and priorities. Be part of this dynamic group shaping the future of transit in the Atlantic Region.
To learn more and to join, contact [email protected] today.
Join the Ontario Regional Committee, representing the interests of CUTA members in this region. Complementing the efforts of the Ontario Public Transit Association (OPTA), it serves as a forum for addressing Ontario-specific challenges in public transit and urban mobility. From shaping provincial policy development to providing regulatory oversight, this committee actively engages in municipal advocacy and collaborates with elected officials. By working closely with OPTA, members contribute to impactful submissions on provincial budgets and legislative initiatives. Be part of this dynamic group shaping the future of transit in Ontario.
To learn more and to join, contact [email protected] today.
Join the Prairies Provinces and Territories Regional Committee, representing the interests of CUTA members in Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and Yukon. As a member, you’ll participate in twice-yearly in-person meetings, focusing on advancing the public transit industry. From major infrastructure projects to innovative programs like Alberta’s Green Trip initiative, you’ll cover it all. Collaborate on pressing issues, share insights, and support each other on policies, risk management, and technology. Committee meetings feature product demos and an annual workshop for managers and frontline staff. Be part of this dynamic group shaping the future of transit in the Prairie region and Territories.
To learn more and to join, contact [email protected] today.
Join the British Columbia Regional Committee (BCRC). Representing the interests of CUTA members in this region, members engage in vibrant discussions, share valuable insights, and contribute to the advancement of CUTA’s transit advocacy initiatives. This community works diligently to identify and address mutual concerns while championing safety and security through the dedicated Safety and Security Sub-Committee. Be part of this dynamic group shaping the future of transit in British Columbia.
The BCRC has one sub-committee:
Safety & Security Sub-Committee
The Safety and Security Sub-Committee works to address safety and security transit issues. While part of the BC Regional Committee, members from transit systems across Canada are welcome to join. Their focus extends beyond borders as they collaborate with other provinces, sharing insights and best practices to inform our collective mandate. As a member, you will be committed to implementing effective mitigation strategies and conducting vital research on sentencing and deterrents. Be part of this dedicated team shaping a safer and more secure transit environment for all.