The Sectional

Ep 13 - From Buses to Brisbane

Although Xavier Harmony has now moved outside of the region and the US entirely, he provided a variety of local transit insights. Sarah and Eric enjoyed discussing everything from ridership to policy decisions, focusing on how transit impacts our communities and the transportation options available. We enjoyed Xavier’s unique perspective because of his diverse career path and the comparisons he can draw between Australia and the US. We admire Xavier as a professional and a father for sharing his passion with his daughter. Xavier was previously employed by NVTC but now works for the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads in Brisbane. He’s no longer local but even across the world, the transportation community remains tight knit. Date of Recording: Monday, March 6, 2025 https://www.linkedin.com/in/xavierharmony/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/xavierharmony/]

Ep. 12 - Participate and Advocate

Mike Sakata, President & CEO of Maryland Transportation Builders & Materials Association (MTBMA), wears many hats within the industry. Thanks to his roles and diverse background, he has become laser focused on promoting a safe transportation system that will progress our communities forward. Sarah and Eric have dedicated their careers towards this same goal, nevertheless, it was enlightening to converse with Mike about his unique perspective. Mike participates in the legal, business, and communicative processes involved in advocating for more infrastructure and preparing the industry for challenges ahead. He provided us a motivating message to advocate for infrastructure that works for all users without compromising safety.   Date of Recording: Monday, September 16, 2024 https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikesakata/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikesakata/]

Ep. 11 - Safety Research Crash Course

Safety is a multi-discipline endeavor. Jessica Cicchino, Senior VP of Research from the IIHS-HLDI, was our guide through the many ways that her organization brings together professionals from a variety of specialties and backgrounds to perform valuable research on the motor vehicles that traverse our roadways and the human behaviors that influence vehicle operation. The IIHS stays on top of the latest technology trends to provide consumers with information for an informed purchase. Sarah and Eric cherished the opportunity to speak with and relate to Jessica and her organization’s work because in one way or another we are all working to improve safety for our communities.  Date of Recording: Monday, May 20, 2024  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-cicchino-a3b3005/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-cicchino-a3b3005/]

Ep. 10 - Modernizing the MVA

Mobile ID, Customer Connect System, CAV testing, and a pilot testing out Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety (DADSS) technology are just some ways Chrissy Nizer and her team are modernizing the Maryland DOT Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). But these systems don’t run on their own, customer service is at the core of everything the MVA does. Needless to say, we were humbled with the opportunity to speak with Administrator Nizer and hear about how the MVA puts people first in new, safe, and innovative ways. On November 17th, 2023, Governor Moore's Work Zone Safety Work Group announced its final set of recommendations. View the complete recommendations here [https://url.us.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/mSDDCyP6kECJ13rmIZyhWV?domain=governor.maryland.gov] . Date of Recording: day, November 28, 2023 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissy-nizer-3b84a845/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissy-nizer-3b84a845/]

Ep. 9 - The Norie Hustle

After a long day of work, nothing sounds better than going to school. Wait, huh? At least that’s what seemed to be Norie Calvert’s perspective throughout her career as she hustled to achieve her accomplishments. She did so by working hard to move up the career ladder, continuously striving for more knowledge and new opportunities. Norie, WMATA’s Director of Contract Support and Marketing Outreach, impressed Eric and Sarah as they discussed her upbringing, work ethic, and determination to continuously step into new crucial roles. She shared the latest in procurement methodologies and her tips for consultants who are submitting proposals. Date of Recording: Thursday, October 26, 2023 https://www.linkedin.com/in/norie-calvert-51660489/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/norie-calvert-51660489/]