WTS Central Florida, a dynamic chapter of the Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS), recently held its 26th Annual Awards & Scholarship Banquet, and it was nothing short of a night to remember. With a legacy of supporting women in transportation, the annual event serves as a testament to a continued commitment to recognize industry achievements and empower future leaders.

WGI’s Annual Support

WGI, a prominent player in the transportation and infrastructure industry, has served as a proud annual sponsor of WTS Central Florida and event sponsor for the Awards & Scholarship banquet. We are proud to continue to aid in the fostering of a more diverse and inclusive transportation sector through the empowerment of professionals everywhere.

A Night of Celebration and Inspiration

The banquet stands as the largest gathering organized by WTS Central Florida, attracting over 200 attendees from various corners of the transportation industry. It serves as a platform to honor industry award winners, celebrate scholarship recipients, and inspire the next generation of female leaders in transportation.

Empowering Female Scholars

One of the main highlights of the evening was the presentation of scholarships, which amounted to a total of $11,000. These scholarships are designed to motivate and reward female students who have demonstrated academic excellence and leadership. It’s a crucial step towards encouraging women to pursue careers in transportation and related fields. Additionally, the chapter proudly presented its first high school scholarship to support a young woman pursuing high school studies in STEM, reinforcing the importance of fostering interest in these critical areas from an early age.

Recognizing Industry Excellence

This year’s event showcased the significance of recognizing outstanding achievements in the transportation sector, with eight awards presented to acknowledge the contributions of individuals and organizations throughout the industry, such as:

1. Member of the Year
2. Employer of the Year: An organization honored for recruiting, retaining, and advancing women.
3. Innovative Transportation Solutions: Recognizing innovative projects led by women or teams of women.
4. Citizen Transportation Advocate of the Year: Honoring a citizen who upholds the purpose and goals of the transportation community.
5. Honorable Ray LaHood Award: Recognizing a man who has contributed to the advancement of women and minorities in transportation.
6. Rosa Parks Diversity Leadership Award: Acknowledging contributions to diversity, inclusion, and multicultural awareness.
7. Harold W. Barley Regional Partnership Award: Honoring a commitment to the advancement of a regional transportation network.
8. Woman of the Year: Recognizing a woman who serves as an outstanding role model and contributes to the advancement of women and minorities in transportation.

These awards serve as a testament to the significant strides being made in the industry by individuals and organizations that champion diversity and inclusion.

Keynote Address by Nicola Liquori

The evening’s keynote speaker was none other than Nicola Liquori, the Executive Director and CEO of Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise. Her address was both inspiring and motivating, providing valuable insights into the transportation sector and the importance of female leadership in the field.

Exceptional Leadership Behind the Scenes

For the third consecutive year, WGI’s Barbara Stiles chaired the banquet planning committee, ensuring that the event was a resounding success. At the same time, Maria Bolivar served on the committee, contributing her expertise and dedication to the cause.

The 26th Annual Awards & Scholarship Banquet organized by WTS Central Florida was a night filled with celebration, recognition, and inspiration. As the transportation industry continues to evolve and diversify, this event remains a beacon of inspiration, encouraging women to excel and lead in their respective roles. With an array of dedicated sponsors and empowering leaders, the future of women in transportation has never looked brighter.

A Dynamic & Passionate Team

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