Infrastructure Technology Podcast

How Young Leaders are Reinventing the Public Transit Industry with Technology

In episode 15, Mass Transit magazine Associate Editor Brandon Lewis interviews Linus Adler and Tate Coleman, two recent graduates from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Both guests share their personal journeys into the transit industry and discuss why public transportation remains an essential part of creating connected, accessible communities. Throughout the episode, the guests discuss the importance of hands-on experiences in transit operations.
Lewis, as well as Roads and Bridges Head of Content Gavin Jenkins and Roads and Bridges Staff Writer Jessica Parks also discuss the news that the U.S. is spending more on data centers currently than transportation infrastructure. 
Featured Guests
Linus Adler - UMass Amherst Graduate
Linus Adler graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. During his time in school, he was an intern for the Massachusetts Department of Transportation’s Highway Project Development. 
Tate Coleman - Public Transportation Director, Great Barrington, MA; UMass Amherst Graduate
Tate Coleman serves as the director of public transportation at the town of Great Barrington, Mass. Tate recently graduated with Master's Degrees in Regional Planning and Civil Engineering from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he served as a U.S. Department of Transportation Dwight D. Eisenhower Graduate Transportation Fellow during the 2023-2024 academic year.
What You'll Learn
 Why surging data center spending is outpacing public transit investment—and what that means for regulating AI’s rapid growth
How AI’s most impactful transit applications may happen behind the scenes, from scheduling to demand forecasting
Why microtransit is gaining traction in rural areas as a flexible, on-demand mobility solution
How different transit experiences can shape similar passions for the industry, regardless of where riders grow up
Inside the Episode
Episode Length: 42:14
Timestamps
0:43 — Listener email and data centers discussion
8:50 — Mass Transit interview
35:30 — Interview takeaways
Useful Links
UMass Amherst Civil Engineering
"US spending on data center construction now exceeds spending on public transportation infrastructure" — The Cool Down
Roads & Bridges
Mass Transit
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How The 2026 FIFA World Cup Will Impact Public Transit, Technology and Infrastructure (Part II)

Part II of the World Cup infrastructure series shifts from physical transportation systems to the technology that will help manage them. Gavin Jenkins, Brandon Lewis, Jessica Parks and Noah Kolenda explore how artificial intelligence (AI), smart-city technology and connected infrastructure could shape the fan experience during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The discussion focuses heavily on the growing use of AI in transportation, including adaptive traffic signals, transit signal priority, real-time route optimization and crowd management systems. The hosts explain how cities are increasingly relying on digital twins — virtual models of transportation networks — to simulate event-day conditions and identify potential bottlenecks before they occur. 
What You'll Learn
Why transportation systems must function as a connected ecosystem — and how disruptions in one mode can cascade across an entire network
Where autonomous shuttles are being tested across U.S. host cities and what early deployments reveal
How the World Cup will act as a real-world stress test for AI, smart city tech and infrastructure systems
Which investments — like smart traffic controls and real-time transit tools — could deliver long-term benefits well beyond 2026
Inside the Episode 
Episode Length: 26:05
Useful Links
Roads & Bridges
Mass Transit
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Don’t forget to subscribe to the ITP and rate and review our podcast!Email itp@endeavorb2b.com with your thoughts on transportation amid the World Cup — we might read them on air.

How the 2026 FIFA World Cup Will Impact Public Transit, Technology and Infrastructure (Part 1)

Episode 13 kicks off is the first of two parts examining the infrastructure implications of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Gavin Jenkins, Brandon Lewis and Jessica Parks are joined by Noah Kolenda discuss how host cities across the United States are preparing for one of the largest sporting events in the world.
The conversation centers on stadium access, public transit capacity, crowd movement, security and the challenges of moving large numbers of visitors efficiently through cities that often rely heavily on automobiles. The hosts explore how transit agencies, governments and event organizers must coordinate to ensure smooth operations and positive visitor experiences. 
What You'll Learn
Why the World Cup is as much an infrastructure stress test as it is a global sporting event
How stadium mobility—from transit stops to entry gates—shapes the fan experience
Why many U.S. stadiums present unique challenges due to car-centric design
How transit agencies are preparing for surges in ridership, service demands and multi-modal coordination
Inside the Episode 
Episode Length: 28:42
Useful Links
Roads & Bridges
Mass Transit
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Don’t forget to subscribe to the ITP and rate and review our podcast!Email itp@endeavorb2b.com with your thoughts on transportation amid the World Cup — we might read them on air.

Concrete’s Importance to Infrastructure

Episode 12 of the Infrastructure Technology features Roads and Bridges Staff Writer Jessica Parks interviewing Dr. Tyler Ley, a structural engineering professor at Oklahoma State University. A self-described “concrete freak”, Ley discusses why concrete matters so deeply to infrastructure, how better concrete design can create structures that last generations and how innovation is transforming the field. 
After the interview, Mass Transit magazine Associate Editor Brandon Lewis leads a discussion around new artificial intelligence (AI) guidances released by the American Public Transportation Association for transit agencies in the U.S. The hosts discuss AI’s growing role in customer service, operations, policy, staffing and route optimization. They also analyze Moovit’s new AI-powered transit assistant and debate how AI will continue reshaping infrastructure and transportation industries. 
Featured Guest
Dr. Tyler Ley - Oklahoma State University
Dr. Tyler Ley is a structural engineering professor at Oklahoma State University. A self-described concrete freak, in between teaching concrete instructional engineering at Oklahoma State University and conducting innovate research, Ley is the creator behind his YouTube channel, where he breaks down the world of concrete in a way that's engaging, relatable and fun for thousands of viewers. 
What You'll Learn
Why concrete is far more complex than it appears—and how small mix changes can determine whether infrastructure lasts 10 years or a century
How climate-specific concrete design could improve durability, especially in freeze-thaw environments
Why 3D-printed concrete is gaining momentum—and how labor shortages and cost pressures are accelerating its adoption
What APTA’s new AI guidelines mean for public transit agencies
How AI-powered tools like Moovit are changing the way riders plan and navigate transit systems
Inside the Episode
Episode Length: 35:47
Timestamps: 
1:20 — Roads & Bridges interview 
27:45 — Interview takeaways
29:40 — APTA AI guidance
Useful Links
Dr. Tyler Ley's Youtube Channel
OSU College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology
APTA AI Guidance
Roads & Bridges
Mass Transit
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Don’t forget to subscribe to the ITP and rate and review our podcast!Email itp@endeavorb2b.com with your thoughts on the importance of concrete for transportation infrastructure— we might read them on air.

Modernizing Public Transit Through Technology and Policy

Episode 11 of the Infrastructure Technology Podcast focuses on the future of urban transportation, the next generation of transit professionals and the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in public transportation systems.
University of Illinois Chicago Professor Kate Lowe joined graduate students Noah Arroyo and Maisie Westerfield to discuss transportation policy, transit equity, mobility justice and emerging technology. The episode explores how younger professionals view AI differently from previous generations, especially in transit planning, customer service, geospatial analysis and safety systems.
Gavin, Brandon and Jessica also discuss Bentley Systems receiving FedRAMP authorization for its federal infrastructure software platforms, highlighting cybersecurity and cloud modernization in transportation infrastructure. 
Featured Guests
Kate Lowe - Associate Professor of Urban Planning and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago
Kate Lowe studies transportation at the intersection of policy, funding, and mobility justice. Her work examines how varied stakeholders and transportation policies interact across different levels of government and how this impacts transportation investments and racial inequities. She also conducts qualitative research on lived experiences of mobility and accessibility for low-income populations and Black and Brown communities.   
Noah Arroyo - Graduate Assistant, University of Illinois Chicago
Noah Arroyo is a current Graduate Assistant, where he manages administrative functions for the UIC Urban Planning and Policy department within the college. He is also an intern with the Chicago Transit Authority, where he maintains partnerships with transportation officials, elected officials, Federal Transit Authority representatives, 13 block clubs, neighborhood stakeholders, businesses and four chambers of commerce for the Red Purple Modernization Government & Community Relations group.  
Maisie Westerfield - Master's Student, University of Illinois Chicago
Maisie Westerfield is a masters' student at the University of Illinois at Chicago studying urban planning and policy with a concentration in urban transportation. She has a bachelors degree in environmental management from Indiana University. She is interested in climate resilient transportation, climate activism in young generations and environmental justice. 
What You'll Learn 
How Bentley Systems’ FedRAMP authorization could help accelerate secure, cloud-based modernization efforts across U.S. transportation infrastructure
Why the rollout of AI in transit is expected to be gradual—and how it’s already being applied in real-world, rural mobility challenges
How transit, housing and land use are becoming increasingly interconnected through transit-oriented development
Why many transit agencies still lag technologically, and how budget constraints and legacy systems continue to shape adoption of new tools
Inside the Episode 
Episode Length: 38:44
Timestamps: 
1:50 — FedRAMP Authorization discussion
9:45 — Mass Transit interview
32:43 — Interview takeaways
Useful Links
Useful Links
University of Chicago Illinois Department of Urban Planning and Policy
"Bentley Systems Achieves Key U.S. Government Security Milestone to Help Modernize the Nation's Infrastructure" - Bentley Systems
Roads & Bridges
Mass Transit
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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
Roads & Bridges
Mass Transit
Send us a topic suggestion! 
Don’t forget to subscribe to the ITP and rate and review our podcast!Email 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
North Texas Cities are using AI to Help with Traffic Ahead of World Cup
Roads & Bridges
Mass Transit
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Don’t forget to subscribe to the ITP and rate and review our podcast!Email 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
Fresno State Geomatics Engineering
Roads & Bridges
Mass Transit
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Don’t forget to subscribe to the ITP and rate and review our podcast!Email 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
APTA Workforce Resources
Roads & Bridges
Mass Transit
Send us a topic suggestion! 
Don’t forget to subscribe to the ITP and rate and review our podcast!Email 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
Front Range Community College Highway Maintenance Management Program
APTA Ridership Data
Roads & Bridges
Mass Transit
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Don’t forget to subscribe to the ITP and rate and review our podcast!Email itp@endeavorb2b.com with your thoughts on bus fares — we might read them on air.