Women in Tolling (WIT)

Greetings! As I reflect on the close of an extraordinary year and my term as Chair of the WIT Council, I am filled with gratitude, pride, and optimism. We kicked off 2024 with a memorable Galentine’s Day celebration and a strong presence at the Technology Summit in Atlanta, where we hosted a Women in the C-Suite panel, assembled food donations for Hope Atlanta and enjoyed a vibrant Mix and Mingle. Our virtual events, including the Women in Tolling Career Panel and Women Leading the Global Approach to Safety, garnered rave reviews. The WIT Week of Service expanded to 10 cities, supporting local organizations that address homelessness, food security, and women’s services. At the IBTTA Annual Meeting, we hosted an inspiring executive women’s panel and made meaningful donations to the Norma Herr Women’s Center in Cleveland. We wrapped up the year with a joint social event with IBTTA Young Professionals Council (YPC) and LAAA, celebrating our partnerships and sense of community. None of this would have been possible without the dedication and contributions of each of you. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the officers, council members, committees, sponsors, supporters, IBTTA board and staff who have shown up, contributed, and championed our mission. Your efforts have made 2024 truly impactful. A special thank you to the Council members whose terms are concluding this year for their dedicated service, and a warm welcome to those stepping into new roles next year. Since the founding of the WIT Council in 2020, I have had the privilege of watching it grow, adapt, and thrive. Together, we have built a strong foundation, and the future holds even greater promise. Remember, progress isn’t a destination—it’s a journey. On this journey, every voice matters, every effort counts, and every act of leadership makes a difference. It has been an honor to serve as your Chair. Thank you for this incredible privilege. Happy Holidays to all! Sincerely, Snehal Ambare, PE Chair, IBTTA WIT Council Wanda Sneed Mary Sallach, PMP Lauren Hakos Tawnya Freund Wendy T Griffin Melissa Garr, PE Michelle Maikisch Marge Rangel Jee Kim, PMP, CSM Patricia Michaud Shannon Fuentes Swank DeeAnne Vickery Jessica Carson Kristen Johnson María Moreno López de Ayala

📢 We are thrilled to recognize the incredible accomplishments of WIT women who continue to break barriers and lead with purpose.   🏆 Snehal Ambare, P.E. - WIT Chair and Regional Client Service Leader at CDM Smith, was named Member of the Year by WTS Central Florida Chapter for her transformative contributions to the chapter and the industry. 🏆 Michelle Maikisch - WIT Outreach & Service Committee Leader and Executive Director at the Central Florida Expressway Authority – has been honored as Woman of the Year by the WTS Central Florida Chapter. Additionally, the Orlando Business Journal recognized her as one of the 2024 Most Influential Leaders in #CentralFlorida. Her visionary leadership continues to inspire us all. 🌟 Marge Rangel - WIT Outreach & Service Committee Leader and Project Manager at TransCore, was elected as Director of Membership for the WTS Central Florida Chapter Board.   Congratulations to these exceptional leaders! Your commitment to advancing women and transportation continues to inspire us all. 👏

📢 We are proud to spotlight some incredible WIT women who have recently earned well-deserved recognition for paving the way for progress and innovation:  🏆 Mary Sallach, PMP - WIT Past Chair and Director of Strategic Initiatives at SRTA was honored with Lifetime Achievement Award recognizing impactful contributions to IBTTA Women in Tolling (WIT) and the broader industry. 🏆 Rosa Rountree - WIT Member and National Director of Tolls Operations at AtkinsRéalis was honored as the WIT Trailblazer for her outstanding dedication to advancing the mission, vision, and values of the WIT Council. 🏆 Snehal Ambare, P.E. - WIT Chair and Regional Client Service Leader at CDM Smith was awarded the Distinguished Leadership Academy Alum of the Year for her exemplary contributions in creating opportunities and fostering diversity within transportation leadership. 🏆 Emanuela Stocchi - WIT Council Member and Director of International Affairs at AISCAT (Associazione Italiana Società Concessionarie Autostrade e Trafori) was named Person of the Year by the Smart Transportation Alliance (STA) for her groundbreaking efforts in sustainable and efficient transportation solutions on a global scale.   These leaders remind us of the power of commitment, passion, and vision in shaping the future of transportation. Congratulations to all for your incredible achievements! 🙌