Stellar Lineup of Transportation Industry Leaders Shines at WTS-APWA Rising Stars Event
Illinois Tollway Chief of Planning Karyn Robles shared insights from her more than two decades of experience in public-sector transportation at the Rising Stars event hosted by WTS Greater Chicago and the Chicago Metro Chapter of the American Public Works Association.
This impactful event supports emerging professionals from both the public and private sectors as they progress into management and leadership roles. The full-day event offers invaluable leadership training through discussions on essential management skills, relationship-building, effective communication and strategies for delegation and conflict resolution.
Illinois Tollway Chief of the Department of Diversity and Strategic Development Marlene Vick and Senior Manager of Diversity Outreach Lorena Perez were among the 50 up-and-coming professionals who attended the November 7 event in Arlington Heights.
Robles, who plays a pivotal role in setting the strategic direction for the Tollway’s transportation planning efforts, shared her journey and responsibilities, which include guiding the agency’s long-term capital plans. Her work involves engaging with diverse community organizations, engineering and construction experts, trucking professionals, and motorists to shape and inform future capital projects.
Joining Robles on the leadership panel were other notable transportation industry leaders: Kane County Director of Transportation and County Engineer Carl Schoedel, Village of Wilmette Director of Public Works and Engineering Brigitte Berger-Raish and DuPage County Stormwater Management Director Sarah Hunn. Together, they discussed the unique opportunities and challenges of building a career in the public sector and shared valuable advice on navigating the path to leadership.