GAHCC hosts U.S. Department of Transportation Deputy Assistant Secretary Charles Small during CEO Speaker Series on Transportation

Created by Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GAHCC) hosted its second CEO Speaker Series event on Thursday, August 5th, 2021. The event featured an impressive collection of transportation industry leaders from across Central Texas and involved discussion of transportation initiatives and the changing landscape for electric and autonomous vehicles.

Transportation industry leaders serving as panelists included:

  • Charles Small, Deputy Assistant Secretary - U.S. Dept. of Transportation
  • Diana Maldonado, President/CEO - Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
  • Tucker Ferguson, Austin District Engineer - Texas Dept. of Transportation (TXDOT)
  • James Bass, Executive Director - Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority (CTRMA)
  • Ashby Johnson, Executive Director - Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO)
  • J.J. Roohms, President - CP&Y Inc.
  • Mike Trimble, Director - City of Austin Corridor Program Office

Welcome remarks were provided by City of Austin Mayor Steve Adler, followed by a lively discussion between panelists on the proposed $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and its potential impact on Central Texas roadways. Panelists further discussed the COVID19 pandemic and how it has forced the transportation industry to reimagine infrastructure needs as a result of ongoing social distancing orders and remote working alternatives for Texans.

Panelists also shared their insights on anticipated improvements to roadways to accommodate the increasing presence of electric and autonomous vehicles on Central Texas roadways. The discussion concluded with panelists sharing details of new and ongoing transportation initiatives and policies that better connect and support communities of color.

Event panelists were thanked for sharing in dialogue and imparting their industry expertise throughout the discussion. Event attendees were encouraged to join in for the final segment of the 2021 GAHCC CEO Speaker Series. The event was a tremendous success and was made possible in part by event sponsors, which included:

  • AT&T
  • Coca-Cola
  • Austin Energy
  • CP&Y Inc.
  • Campos Consulting Group
  • Rodriguez Transportation Group

About GAHCC CEO Speaker Series

The GAHCC CEO Speaker Series was established to provide engaging, timely and quality information and content to valued GAHCC members and partners. The CEO Speaker Series brings together leaders across various industries to present and interact with Austin’s exceptional community of Latino business leaders.

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