Inside the Tollway

The U.S. Minority Contractors Association honored Illinois Tollway Acting Chief of Diversity and Strategic Development Marlene Vick with its 2024 Excellence in Public Administration Award.
 
This award celebrates Marlene’s steadfast leadership and passionate advocacy for diversity, equity and inclusion within Illinois’ transportation industry. She received the award at USMCA’s Millennium Builders Awards Banquet, which recognizes outstanding leadership in the construction, business, and government sectors.
 
“It’s deeply rewarding to support small and diverse businesses as they become essential partners with the Illinois Tollway, contributing to our projects and community,” said Vick. “I am grateful to USMCA for its shared commitment to reimagining the build industry and am truly honored to accept this award.”
 
This year’s banquet, themed “The Build Industry Reimagined,” spotlighted leaders who are driving diversity and innovation in the build industry while reshaping the sector through advocacy and technical assistance programs.
 
In her acceptance remarks, Marlene reflected on her 17-year journey at the Illinois Tollway, emphasizing her dedication to creating pathways for small, diverse, and veteran-owned businesses. She also highlighted transformative initiatives such as the Technical Assistance Program and Earned Credit Program, which equip hundreds of businesses and individuals with the tools they need to succeed in the heavy-highway construction industry.
 
Under Marlene’s leadership, the Illinois Tollway has consistently championed programs that foster equity and economic development, reinforcing its commitment to empowering underrepresented individuals and businesses while reimagining the future of the build industry.
 
The evening also celebrated USMCA’s dedication to education, awarding scholarships to more than 28 students pursuing STEM fields, trade schools and advanced academics.
 
Congratulations to Marlene Vick on this well-deserved recognition!