Infrastructure Technology Podcast

Building Smarter Infrastructure With AI and Real-Time Data

On this episode of the Infrastructure Technology Podcast, Roads and Bridges Staff Writer Jessica Parks interviews Doug Kraus and Josh Zhou from North Highland about how artificial intelligence is transforming transportation infrastructure, workforce development and public sector operations. The discussion focuses on North Highland’s partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation to deploy AI-driven analytics for bridge management, roadway monitoring and infrastructure planning. At the conclusion of the interview, Parks is joined by Gavin Jenkins, head of content for Roads and Bridges, and Brandon Lewis, associate editor for Mass Transit magazine, where they discuss the broader impact of AI on transportation, construction and media industries, including workforce concerns, automation trends and the growing role of AI-powered technology in public transit and infrastructure operations.  Featured Guests Doug Kraus - North Highland Doug Kraus is North Highlands senior director of AI and data architecture, bringing over 25 years of experience leading analytics strategy and implementation across large complex organizations.   Josh Zhou - North Highland Josh Zhou is an AI and data engineer at North Highland, whose expertise in database management and dashboard development helps transform raw data and clear actionable insights.  What You'll Learn * How AI-powered analytics, automation and real-time monitoring are transforming transportation and construction workflows * How North Highland and the Oklahoma DOT are using AI to prioritize bridge maintenance, assess roadway conditions and guide long-term infrastructure planning * How real-time data, sensors and predictive analytics improve safety by identifying issues like potholes, structural concerns and crash hotspots before they escalate * What AI means for the future of the workforce, including its potential impact on construction jobs and related fields like journalism Inside the Episode Episode Length: 34:33 Timestamps * 2:00 — Roads & Bridges interview with North Highland * 24:10 — Interview takeaways * 28:50 — Mass Transit news discussion Useful Links * North Highland [https://northhighland.com/] * Roads & Bridges [https://www.roadsbridges.com/] * Mass Transit [https://www.masstransitmag.com/] * Send us a topic suggestion!  [itp@endeavorb2b.com] Don’t forget to subscribe to the ITP and rate and review our podcast! Email itp@endeavorb2b.com [itp@endeavorb2b.com] with your thoughts on AI and the workforce — we might read them on air.

The Role GIS Plays In Public Transit Planning

This episode of the Infrastructure Technology Podcast explores how GIS technology, data analytics and emerging artificial intelligence tools are transforming public transit planning and accessibility. Featuring an interview with University of New Orleans graduate Jackie Strohmeyer, the episode highlights how data-driven methods are being used to improve mobility equity, optimize transit routes and support smarter infrastructure decisions. The discussion emphasizes the growing role of GIS in mapping transit access, analyzing community needs and guiding transit-oriented development.  The episode also tackles the evolving role of AI in transit systems, noting its benefits in data analysis and operational efficiency while underscoring the continued need for human oversight—especially when addressing complex equity challenges like Title VI compliance.  Featured Guests Jackie Strohmeyer - University of New Orleans Graduate Jackie Strohmeyer holds a BA in Sociology and is an MPA candidate with a concentration in GIS at the University of New Orleans (UNO). During her time at the university, she worked as a graduate assistant and data analyst supporting planning and scheduling at the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority through the UNO Transportation Institute. Her work focuses on Geographic Information Systems-based accessibility analysis, spatial equity and the application of data-driven methods to transportation planning and policy evaluation.  What You’ll Learn * How GIS and data-driven planning are helping transit agencies improve accessibility and make more equitable decisions. * Why careers in public transit extend beyond engineering, including roles in policy, data analysis, and social research. * How AI is supporting transit planning and operations — while still relying on human judgment to balance efficiency and equity. * How AI could play a role in managing traffic congestion during major events like the FIFA World Cup. Inside the Episode Episode Length: 36:20 Timestamps * 2:55 — Mass Transit interview with Jackie Strohmeyer * 27:40 — Interview takeaways and AI discussion Useful Links * University of New Orleans' Geographic Information Systems Graduate Certificate [http://catalog.uno.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=12&poid=3427] * North Texas Cities are using AI to Help with Traffic Ahead of World Cup [https://www.roadsbridges.com/technology/news/55374100/how-cities-are-using-ai-and-smart-tech-to-improve-traffic-and-project-delivery] * Roads & Bridges [https://www.roadsbridges.com/] * Mass Transit [https://www.masstransitmag.com/] * Send us a topic suggestion!  [itp@endeavorb2b.com] Don’t forget to subscribe to the ITP and rate and review our podcast! Email itp@endeavorb2b.com [itp@endeavorb2b.com] with your thoughts on public transit's technological shift — we might read them on air.

The Next Generation of Geomatics Professionals

In this episode of the ITP, Roads & Bridges Staff Writer Jessica Parks interviews Scott Peterson, an associate professor of geomatics engineering at California State University, Fresno and program coordinator for the Trimble Technology lab, and Shaaden Salem, the education program manager of field systems at Trimble, where she focuses on building the next generation of geomatic professionals. The discussion highlights how today’s technology—like GNSS, LIDAR and automated systems—is transforming the industry by increasing speed, efficiency and data collection while still requiring skilled professionals to validate and interpret results. The episode spotlights the new Trimble Technology Lab at Fresno State, a hands-on learning environment designed to better prepare students for real-world careers.  Roads & Bridges Featured Guests Scott Peterson - California State University, Fresno Scott Peterson is an associate professor of geomatics engineering at California State University Fresno and program coordinator for the Trimble Technology Lab.   Shaaden Salem - Trimble Shaaden Salem is the education program manager of field systems at Trimble, where she focuses on building the next generation of geomatic professionals.  What You'll Learn * Why geomatics is shaping the future of infrastructure: How technologies like GPS, LiDAR and mobile mapping are changing how roads and bridges are planned, built and maintained. * How technology supports — not replaces — the workforce: Why automation and advanced data collection tools are accelerating fieldwork while still relying on skilled professionals. * What the looming workforce shortage means for the industry: How an aging workforce and projected retirements are pushing the infrastructure sector to rethink recruitment and training. * How education is adapting to meet industry needs: Inside the Trimble Technology Lab and how hands-on access to real-world tools helps prepare the next generation of infrastructure professionals.   Inside the Episode Episode Length: 56:10 Timestamps * 00:40 — Roads & Bridges interview with Scott and Shaaden * 50:46 —  Interview takeaways Useful Links * Trimble Technology Labs [https://www.trimble.com/en/our-commitment/education-and-outreach/technology-labs] * Fresno State Geomatics Engineering [https://engineering.fresnostate.edu/geomatics/] * Roads & Bridges [https://www.roadsbridges.com/] * Mass Transit [https://www.masstransitmag.com/] * Send us a topic suggestion!  [itp@endeavorb2b.com] Don’t forget to subscribe to the ITP and rate and review our podcast! Email itp@endeavorb2b.com [itp@endeavorb2b.com] with your thoughts on land surveying and geomatics engineering — we might read them on air.

How APTA is Introducing the Next Generation to Public Transit

This episode of the Infrastructure Technology Podcast focuses on National Work Zone Awareness Week and the programs the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) is offering to help introduce the next generation to a career in public transit. Throughout the episode, Roads and Bridges Head of Content Gavin Jenkins hosts a discussion on the top 10 innovations that are transforming safety in the roads and bridges construction industry with Mass Transit Associate Editor Brandon Lewis and Roads & Bridges Staff Writer Jessica Parks.  Brandon interviews APTA’s Vice President of Workforce Development and Educational Services Carita Ducre. Their conversation focuses on the wide array of career opportunities within public transit and how artificial intelligence is affecting the public transit industry.  Featured Guest Carita Ducre- APTA Carita Ducre is the vice president of workforce development and educational services at the American Public Transportation Association. She is also on the board of advisors for the National Transit Institute and Young Professionals In Transportation.  What You'll Learn * Why National Work Zone Awareness Week remains a critical priority for protecting workers in road and bridge construction. * Which safety innovations are making the biggest difference on today’s roads and bridges jobsites. * How APTA is working to support and prepare the next generation of public transit professionals. * Why careers in public transit span a wide range of roles and skill sets beyond traditional operations. Inside the Episode Episode Length: 50:25 Timestamps * 1:05 — Safety innovations discussion * 11:35 — Mass Transit interview with APTA's Carita Ducre * 40:40 — Interview takeaways * 43:04 — Safety innovations discussion part two Useful Links * National Work Zone Awareness Week [https://www.nwzaw.org/] * APTA Workforce Resources [https://www.apta.com/professional-development/workforce-resources/] * Roads & Bridges [https://www.roadsbridges.com/] * Mass Transit [https://www.masstransitmag.com/] * Send us a topic suggestion!  [itp@endeavorb2b.com] Don’t forget to subscribe to the ITP and rate and review our podcast! Email itp@endeavorb2b.com [itp@endeavorb2b.com] with your thoughts on workzone safety — we might read them on air.

How Technology Impacts Highway Maintenance

Mass Transit Associate Editor Noah Kolenda kicks off this episode of the ITP with a deep dive into bus fare data from the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). Roads and Bridges Head of Content Gavin Jenkins interviews Susan Baillargeon, director of the Highway Maintenance Program at Front Range Community College in Colorado, and Don Strange, streets superintendent for Highland Village, Texas. As the program’s first graduate, Strange credits it with strengthening his leadership and communication skills, enhancing his ability to advocate for his department. Mass Transit Associate Editor and co-host Brandon Lewis leads a game of higher or lower using APTA's 2025 Q4 data to compare average weekday bus ridership across U.S. agencies. Featured Guests Don Strange  Strange is the streets superintendent for the City of Highland Village, Texas. His career in public works spans more than 30 years. He is the first to graduate from Front Range Community College's Applied Science in Highway Management program in May 2025. Strange continues to pursue a doctoral degree in business from Edgewood College.  Susan Baillargeon Baillargeon directs the Highway Maintenance Management program at Front Range Community College. Prior to her current position, she served 32 years at the Connecticut Department of Transportation, which included 19 years as a highway maintainer and 13 years as a curriculum manager. Baillargeon holds a master's degree in Adult Learning from the University of Connecticut. What You'll Learn * Which transit systems have the highest and lowest bus fares, and how have prices moved over time.  * How a longtime public works employee honed his skills in an online course focusing on highway management.  * Why online programs, such as the one offered at Front Range Community College, will play a central role in the future of the industry.  * How bus ridership in Q4 2025 stacked up city by city.  Inside the Episode Episode Length: 1:03:32 Timestamps: * 0:26 — The team's daily tasks * 3:25 — Mass Transit data download * 18:39 — Roads & Bridges interview * 52:55 — Over/Under with Mass Transit Useful Links * APTA Fare Database [https://www.apta.com/news-research/public-transit-statistics/fare-database/] * Front Range Community College Highway Maintenance Management Program [https://www.frontrange.edu/programs-courses/program-list/highway-maintenance-management.html] * APTA Ridership Data [https://www.apta.com/news-research/public-transit-statistics/ridership-data/] * Roads & Bridges [https://www.roadsbridges.com/] * Mass Transit [https://www.masstransitmag.com/] * Send us a topic suggestion!  [itp@endeavorb2b.com] Don’t forget to subscribe to the ITP and rate and review our podcast! Email itp@endeavorb2b.com [itp@endeavorb2b.com] with your thoughts on bus fares — we might read them on air.