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YPT Newsletter

Your One Stop Shop to read all about YPT-NYC each month!
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Member Profiles

November Monthly Member Profile

Kristy Tu \\ Senior Transportation Engineer & Outgoing YPT-NYC Chair!
I’m a Senior Engineer at Arup, where I work on all projects re: transportation planning – spanning across data analysis, traffic engineering, transit planning and aviation. I’m currently the outgoing Chair of YPT-NYC and a fan of all things transport-related!
What’s your favorite YPT memory?
How can I choose just one?! I think I may have attended like, 100 YPT events at this point (not to flex too much – I just love YPT!). Tons of my favorite memories are from running events. Standouts to me are hosting the past 2 transportation trivia nights (I live for the booing crowd), reviving the YPT scavenger hunt this year and making people run around New York answering my silly clues, speed networking, and all of our phenomenal tours!
If you could snap your fingers and make one change to regional transportation, what would it be?
It’s gotta be taking bus reliability and frequency seriously. Flying through Mexico City on a Metrobus, faster than the Metro itself, really opened my eyes to what is possible when you have a laser focus on running efficient service with proper infrastructure.
What’s your favorite way to get around the YPT-NYC region?
I love indulging in a nice NYC Ferry ride. Particularly the route to Soundview/Ferry Point Park – it’s the most fabulously priced way to see the city. Also, all of the NYC Ferry boats were named by second graders – adorable! I also like the view from the J train.
What sparked your passion to work in the transportation industry?
I used to be part of a lot of extracurriculars back in high school, and because I’d always miss my school bus, my parents made me take public transit (1 hr or so) instead of picking me up (~10 mins). I had a lot of time to ponder about transit operations and car dependency while I waited for buses running on 30 min headways during snowy Canadian winters. I was also deeply interested in sustainable urban development. At some point, I realized I could get paid to ponder about transit operations and car dependency, so here I am!
What are you working on currently that you’re most excited about?
For the past year I’ve been working with a team of airport planners on the Vision Plan for the future of Newark Liberty International Airport. It’s been fascinating being immersed in the world of aviation planning and working on a plan that will reshape such a major transprotation facility.
Do you have a favorite transportation book, blog, newsletter, podcast, or YouTube channel?
I really enjoyed “The Address Book: What Street Addresses Reveal About Identity, Race, Wealth, and Power” by Deirdre Mask – it’s like travel writing and transportation/geographic history all in one.
What career advice would you give to other YPTers interested in your career path?
I think that my #1 is to always search for the meaning in your work and remembering why it matters. Transportation projects are long and complicated, and that can be deflating and burn people out and lead people to want to take the path of least resistance. But, I think that to achieve some really great things, there are battles worth picking and status quos worth questioning, even if it’s a harder way out. There are so many huge things to tackle out there – righting historic inequities, decarbonizing transportation, tackling the road safety crisis, delivering transportation improvements of all scales – and the world needs people who care deeply about these things to push them forward.
What famous celebrity do you think should be given the opportunity to voice a NYCT Subway announcement?
Taylor SWIFT!!!
What is your favorite transportation-related fun fact or joke?
The airport code for Panama City, Florida is ECP, which stands for “Everyone Can Party”. (Not a joke)
What upcoming YPT event are you looking forward to the most in 2023?
The holiday party, obvi!

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Member Profiles

October Monthly Member Profile

Sara Appleton \\ Assistant Director, Capital Project Delivery, Amtrak
Sara is a transportation and economic development strategist who has worked across the public and private sectors. Sara currently works at Amtrak, where she is leading major station capital improvement projects in New York and New Jersey. She previously advised public transit agencies and other government leaders on strategic, financial, and operational topics at the consulting firm McKinsey and led economic development initiatives for the City of New York.


If you could snap your fingers and make one change to regional transportation, what would it be?
My current focus is on improving rail infrastructure, but I’d love to continue to see improvements to our bus systems. Much work has been done in recent years to create more dedicated bus lanes, rethink routes, improve real-time information, enhance waiting shelters, etc. Given the number of people who don’t live close to a subway or train station, I’d like to see a continuation of those efforts paired with marketing campaigns to help improve the public’s perception of buses and make them a “sexy” travel mode.

What sparked your passion to work in the transportation industry?
In one of my pre-Amtrak lives, I worked at the New York City Economic Development Corporation, and as I advanced economic development initiatives across the City, it was clear to me how critical reliable transportation access is to the success of local communities and our broader economy. Yet transportation also has a very real impact on every individual’s daily life – whether or not your train is delayed can make or break your day. I love that transportation has this dual “macro” and “micro” impact and I don’t think our transportation systems get enough credit or attention for the critical role they play in our world.

What’s your favorite way to get around the NYC region?
MTA all the way. I know we love to hate the MTA, but it truly is a gift to be able to take the train down to the Jersey Shore, upstate to a hike in the Hudson Valley, and of course to (almost) every neighborhood in NYC.


What are you working on currently that you’re most excited about?
I spend the vast majority of my time thinking about Penn Station. Amtrak is partnering with the MTA and NJ TRANSIT on an ambitious vision to modernize and expand the capacity of the station for the next century. I’ve loved having the opportunity to work so closely with colleagues from our partner railroads, as well as other stakeholders inside and outside of government, whose collective support is critical as we look to transform the station.


Do you have a favorite transportation book, blog, newsletter, podcast, or YouTube channel?
I highly recommend “Conquering Gotham” by Jill Jones. The book is an accessible, engaging re-telling of the story of the Pennsylvania Railroad’s construction of the original Penn Station and tunnels across the Hudson River. I think the book will amaze many with its description of the engineering tactics used a century ago and how much was unknown prior to the tunnel’s construction.

What famous celebrity do you think should be given the opportunity to voice a NYCT Subway announcement?
Lin-Manuel Miranda. He’s already posted videos singing on the subway, so I think he’s angling for the job.

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Member Profiles

September Monthly Member Profile

Anne Krassner \\ Sr. Program Manager for Mobility Management at NYC DOT
Anne is an urban planner who specializes in community-based planning and mobility justice. She’s been a community organizer in NYC for 10 years, and is currently at the NYC DOT working to improve mobility for people with disabilities, low income New Yorkers, and other underserved populations. Outside of work, Anne expresses her creativity through baking and loves riding her bike around the City.

What’s your favorite YPT memory?
All of the tours I’ve been able to attend have become core memories, but nothing beats climbing up to the top of the George Washington Bridge on the clearest day in August. You could see for miles (and down the 600 ft to the water…).

If you could snap your fingers and make one change to regional transportation, what would it be?
Not necessarily a tri-state change, but I would bring Citi Bike to all 5 boroughs and have fare integration with the MTA. Would love to see folks be able to transfer seamlessly and not have to pay 2 full fares. Let’s make that last mile easier for the neighborhoods with fewer subway connections!


What’s your favorite way to get around the NYC region?
MTA all the way. I know we love to hate the MTA, but it truly is a gift to be able to take the train down to the Jersey Shore, upstate to a hike in the Hudson Valley, and of course to (almost) every neighborhood in NYC.

What sparked your passion to work in the transportation industry?
Everyone makes trips, so I realized that working in transportation would allow me to work with all kinds of people across many different communities. Also, having access to affordable, reliable transportation can be a literal game-changer in people’s lives. Whether we’re building new subway stops, bike share stations, or widening sidewalks, it’s amazing to see your work out in the world and experience it making an impact on people’s lives.

What are you working on currently that you’re most excited about?
The DOT is starting to rethink and experiment with the design of the roads in Central and Prospect Park, and I have been helping engage with people with disabilities to understand how they use the parks and what they need to feel safe navigating through it. These streets were built to move cars quickly through, so it’s exciting to be a part of the rethinking as we design for a car-free future.

Do you have a favorite transportation book, blog, newsletter, podcast, or YouTube channel?
There are a few newsletters that I love, but one I go to weekly is Sarah Barnes’ “Along for the Ride” (https://alongfortheride.substack.com/).


She does a great job discussing timely issues from the industry and highlights public, private, and academic points of view all with a cheeky, fun tone. It’s a great way to round off Friday afternoons.
Categories
Member Profiles

Monthly Member Profile

Sara Appleton

Young Professionals in Transportation – New York City (YPT-NYC) is the local chapter of Young Professionals in Transportation International, a nonprofit coalition of organizations, which helps professional development, fellowship, and networking for young professionals in the transportation field. YPT-NYC’s members keep the Greater New York City region moving while providing a space for growing skills, sharing knowledge, and expanding professional networks.

Categories
Member Profiles

Monthly Member Profile

Anne Krassner

Young Professionals in Transportation – New York City (YPT-NYC) is the local chapter of Young Professionals in Transportation International, a nonprofit coalition of organizations, which helps professional development, fellowship, and networking for young professionals in the transportation field. YPT-NYC’s members keep the Greater New York City region moving while providing a space for growing skills, sharing knowledge, and expanding professional networks.

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newsletter

YPT-NYC September 2023 Newsletter

Lots of amazing events coming this fall including a fan favorite: transportation trivia. Set your calendars for Wednesday, September 27 at 6pm at Stout NYC. October brings Transportation Camp. Happy hours and a park cleanup are coming. Speed networking. Our holiday party! Also, remember to submit your nomination for a seat on your board for the 2024 term. Lots to do and oh so very little time. Enjoy it while you can.

2024 Elections

Election Timeline for Local and International. There are multiple links on the “Interest Form” page below, depending on what seat you’re interested in. Follow the highlighted text for all your options. I will say that being on the local NYC board for the past two years has helped me to appreciate my time in New York/New Jersey more. You make amazing connections and get a chance to guide and plan the monthly events we have here. NYC is the biggest chapter by far. If you’re interested, don’t hesitate! Or if you know someone who is—this is your sign to nudge them.

  • October 9, 2023 – Election ballots will be sent out by YPT International to eligible voting Members for all Chapter and International elections.
  • October 23, 2023 – Online elections close at 11:59 PM EDT. International and Chapter Board members and nominees will be notified of election results shortly thereafter.
  • November 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023 – Board Transition Period
  • January 1, 2024 – New term begins for International and Chapter Boards.

September 2023 Events

Skillshare: Airports 101 (Tue. Sept 12)

Dive into the fascinating world of airport planning in this **virtual** YPT-NYC talk with experts Aarshabh Misra and Kristy Tu (chapter chair) from Arup. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or simply curious about how airports work, you’ll learn about the intricate details and challenges faced by planners.

We will begin the talk with Terminals and Airside Planning, then move to Landside Planning.

This event is open to YPT members and non-members. 

Register on Eventbrite here!

September Happy Hour (Thu. Sept 21)

Join us for another fun YPT happy hour! This month, we’ll be going to Smith Street in Boerum Hill (Brooklyn) to one of our favorite beer gardens, Black Forest! 

Note: there are two Black Forest locations, this one is SMITH Street.

Registration on Eventbrite is encouraged, but not mandatory.

Register here!

Transportation Trivia Night! (Wed. Sept 27)

Ever yearned to share your knowledge of transit fare card names? Or what the 3rd oldest subway system in the world is? Or what the original name of the PATH train was?

Great news: YPT-NYC, APA-NY and WTS-NJ are delighted to bring back our legendary annual trivia night, this year BIGGER and better at Stout NYC (33rd St location by Penn Station).

The event will be held Wednesday, September 27th. Doors will open at 6:00pm, with trivia to start at 7:00pm.

You must purchase a ticket in advance on Eventbrite. This year, a drink ticket and food are included with your ticket! Grab some friends and come join us for a chance to reign supreme amongst the transportation trivia goers of New York.

Register on Eventbrite here:

Upcoming Events

TransportationCamp NYC 2023

TransportationCamp NYC will be held on Saturday, October 14th at NYU’s Tandon School of Engineering in Downtown Brooklyn. Join us to discuss all things transportation and connect with professionals, students, and enthusiasts alike!

TransportationCamp is an unconference – every session is planned, proposed, and led by attendees like you. It’s the perfect opportunity to share your transportation passion with a diverse gathering of individuals from our multidisciplinary industry.

Register here on Eventbrite!

September Events

August Events Recap

Thanks to Rick Cotton, Executive Director of the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, for having a great lunch and learn with us!

Transit Museum Tour

We held an awesome transit museum tour with a fun scavenger hunt with museum staff!! Well done to the winning teams and thanks for having us, NYTM!

Reminder! YPT-NYC members get $15 off and a free tote bag when joining the NYC Transit Museum! Use Code I’m YPT15 at checkout.

August Happy Hour

Thanks to all who joined us at CultureLab!

Categories
newsletter

YPT-NYC October 2023 Newsletter

It’s spooky szn, which means it’s time 

Transportation Camp! 

Happening This Month

YPT-NYC x TCNYC October happy hour

When: Thursday, October 12 (6:00-9:00pm)

Where: The Brazen Head, 228 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11201

How: Register on Eventbrite

Join us for a special happy hour, in partnership with TransportationCamp NYC. All are welcome, including non-TCNYC attendees.

Although participation in TCNYC is not required, do check out the agenda and consider signing up! As an “unconference” for mobility enthusiasts, it’s not one to be missed. And if you’re attending, take advantage of this opportunity to hear about session proposals and meet other TCNYC participants in a casual setting. We’ll also have an interactive networking game with fun prizes to be won!

Exclusive perk: Each YPT-NYC member will receive one complimentary drink (while supplies last).

JFK Terminal 5 tour & TWA Hotel happy hour

When: Friday, November 3 (1:45-6:30pm)

Where: Terminal 5, John F. Kennedy International Airport, Queens, NY 11430

How: Register on Eventbrite. As a courtesy to others, please only sign up if you’re sure you can make it.

Hot on the heels of our Airport Planning 101 talk, join us for an exclusive tour of JetBlue’s Terminal 5 at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Here, we’ll learn how the New York-based airline transports millions of travelers every year, with a glimpse into its operation and construction of the new Terminal 6. 

Our visit to JetBlue’s home will be followed by a short guided tour of the adjacent TWA Hotel, a restored 1962 terminal designed by Eero Saarinen. We’ll conclude the afternoon with a happy hour in the Sunken Lounge. 

Heads up: This tour is capped at 18 people and is limited to members only. Your full name, gender and DOB (as per your government ID) are required in advance to access secure areas.

Upcoming Events

Speed Networking 2: The Speediest

September Events Recap

Happy Hour! Prost!

Trivia! 

Reminder! YPT-NYC members get $15 off and a free tote bag when joining the NYC Transit Museum! Use Code I’m YPT15 at checkout.

Monthly Member Profile

Sara Appleton (I have this)

Young Professionals in Transportation – New York City (YPT-NYC) is the local chapter of Young Professionals in Transportation International, a nonprofit coalition of organizations, which helps professional development, fellowship, and networking for young professionals in the transportation field. YPT-NYC’s members keep the Greater New York City region moving while providing a space for growing skills, sharing knowledge, and expanding professional networks.

Categories
newsletter

YPT NYC AUGUST NEWSLETTER 2023

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YPT-NYC August NewsletterA Night At The Transit Museum
Hi YPTers!
It’s August, and everyone’s tired and enjoying the summer. We’ve got some cool events. One in particular: we’re taking over the Transit Museum on Thursday, 8/17 from 5:30-7pm. It’s unique because the museum isn’t usually open after 4pm—and we’ll have it to ourselves! It’s first come, first served, and there are 30 seats available. Make sure you sign up quickly so you can reserve your spot! Read more inside.
Housekeeping: Upcoming Elections for 2024 Board!
Ever wanted to help plan our amazing events? Work on raising $$? Get some leadership experience? Want to write this newsletter? Join the Board for the 2024 YPT-NYC session! Want to have an even larger view? Run for the International Board!
Check out the interest forms on the YPT website. I can tell you that it’s been a great honor and a ton of fun to serve this board for the last 2 years!
Note that you must be an active YPT-NYC dues-paying member to run in any YPT election. Make sure your membership is up to date and watch this space—and our social media for more information.
August Events
Two (more) events this month. We’ve got a lot of heavy events coming in September and October so enjoy the breather before a hectic (fun) fall!
Night at the Transit Museum (August 17th)
When: Thursday, August 17th, 5:30-7:30pmWhere: New York Transit Museum 99 Schermerhorn Street Brooklyn, NY 11201How & How Much: Register here. Note this event is not free, but it is cheaper than normal admission!
Love the movie Night at the Museum but are more into vintage trains than dinosaurs? Well – we have just the event for you at one of our most favorite places in the city!YPT-NYC is excited to invite you to our first-ever Night at the (Transit) Museum!The evening will involve a short tour, a fun and challenging team scavenger hunt, and then time for you to wander the museum.
The Museum will be open after hours EXCLUSIVELY for our YPT-NYC group after the museum closes to the general public – allowing you all of the access to the trains and exclusive time with museum staff!
And even better: no line ups, and you get to score a reduced rate with us! Spots are limited to 30 attendees so sign up soon!
If you are available after the tour, we will then convene an informal happy hour nearby. Join us!
For more details on visiting the Transit Museum, please see this link: https://www.nytransitmuseum.org/knowbeforeyouvisit/***Not already a YPT-NYC member? Join us today for access to all our upcoming events and networking opportunities.
Register now
Queens Happy Hour (August 24)
When: Thursday, August 24 6:00-8:00pmWhere: Culture Lab LIC 5-25 46th Avenue Queens, NY 11101How: Register here.

This month, join us in Queens as we head to our summer favorite, CultureLab in Long Island City. Grab a drink and mingle with folks across transportation in one of the venue’s many galleries. Don’t forget to check out the gantry while you’re there.
This event is open to YPT members and guests.
Register now
Call for VolunteersTransportationCamp NYC: Saturday October 14
>>REGISTER HERE!<<
TransportationCamp NYC is happening again in person this fall! Planning is already underway, and the TCamp Planning Committee is looking for additional volunteers to join the team and support logistics, sponsorships and day-of-event operations. Don’t miss this chance to be a part of an awesome “unconference”.
If you’re interested in getting involved, email Matthew Fiore at matthewfiore@nyu.edu.
Looking ahead
We’ve got SO MANY special events planned for late September and October.
What’s chill this fall? Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest events and more. 🍂 And the fun doesn’t stop here — we’re planning picnics and more behind-the-scenes tours throughout  September and October. 🍂
July recap
Two great July events: July Happy Hour and the Central Park Hang!
SO many friends! And how!
Yes, we do go outside!
August Monthly Member ProfileMeera Kumar \\ Program Manager at Newlab
Meera Kumar (she/her) is a Program Manager at Newlab, where she pilots emerging technologies in collaboration with NYC DOT to help build toward a safe and sustainable transportation future. Prior to working at Newlab, Meera was on the venture team at the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, where she helped develop programs to support start-up founders across the state. She lives in the Heights in Jersey City with her partner.  What’s your favorite YPT memory?
Big fan of anything in Jersey City! Loved the Jersey City Walking tour last September.
If you could snap your fingers and make one change to regional transportation, what would it be?
There are so many things I want to see – multimodal integration so that we don’t have to have a bunch of different transit apps and cards, better accessibility across all our stations, more regular PATH service, more Citibike stations and docks. The one thing that would make the biggest difference however – is really disincentivizing cars. More than just the congestion charge, I think charging vehicle-owners an absurd amount to drive into the city and to park overnight would improve everything else – bus timeliness, pedestrian and cyclist safety, air quality, noise pollution, etc.
What’s your favorite way to get around the YPT-NYC region?
I’m a big fan of cycling – and find myself becoming more of a bus fan. It’s so convenient – if only buses were more timely!
What sparked your passion to work in the transportation industry?
I grew up in Arizona and didn’t have a car as a teenager – so I was one of a handful of people who took the city bus. I even wrote my college application essay about riding the bus. I went to graduate school for planning after realizing that my love of cities was a viable career path!
What are you currently working on that you’re most excited about?
I’m currently working with NYC DOT to pilot outdoor e-bike charging solutions for delivery workers.
Do you have a favorite transportation book, blog, newsletter, podcast, or YouTube channel?
I subscribe to Streetbeat by John Surico and think it’s a great read (https://streetbeat.substack.com). In general, I think all urbanists – not just transportation folks – should read Capital City by Samuel Stein.
Young Professionals in Transportation – New York City (YPT-NYC) is the local chapter of Young Professionals in Transportation International, a nonprofit coalition of organizations, which helps professional development, fellowship, and networking for young professionals in the transportation field. YPT-NYC’s members keep the Greater New York City region moving while providing a space for growing skills, sharing knowledge, and expanding professional networks.
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newsletter

YPT-NYC July Newsletter 2023

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YPT-NYC July NewsletterIt’s hot.
Hi YPTers!
Kristy here with a mid-year message and note of gratitude from the YPT-NYC Board! Just like that, 2023 has reached its mid-way mark – and we have been having a blast with you all!
We’ve had the pleasure of hosting you on fun tours, for informative lunch and learns; resurrected the legendary YPT-APA scavenger hunt and speed networking events; seen you at several lively happy hours, and more! It warms my heart to see so many new members and familiar faces join us at these events as it makes them truly spectacular.
I’m looking forward to seeing many of you at our warm-weather events this summer and later this fall. We promise we have many more fun activities in the works! As always, if you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to drop us a line at yptnyc@gmail.com.
Yours truly,Kristy
Word.
—Sam
July’s events Part I
We’re still nailing down some details for July, which means some really exciting events are coming. Stay tuned for an updated version of this email with more details in the coming week.
Jersey City Happy Hour (July 13)
When: Thursday, July 13, 6:00-8:00 PMWhere: Zeppelin Hall Beer Garden, 88 Liberty View Drive, Jersey City, NJHow: Register on Eventbrite
This month, we’re jumping on the PATH and heading to Zeppelin Hall in Jersey City. Grab a drink (or pretzel) and mingle with folks across transportation. While you’re there, don’t forget to check out some of the many pedestrian plazas!
This event is open to YPT members and guests. To learn more about YPT-NYC, visit yptnyc.org.
Add event to calendarApple  •  Google  •  Outlook  •  Yahoo
Register now
YPT Central Park Picnic (July 29)Rain date August 5.
When: Saturday, July 29, 2:00-5:00 PMWhere: The Great Lawn 79th Street & 85th Street, New York, NY 10024 New York, NY 10024How: Register on Eventbrite
Summer’s in full swing, which means it’s time for our annual YPT picnic. Join us for an afternoon of fun and chats on July 29 (rain date: August 5) as we take over a corner of the Great Lawn, located between 79th and 85th streets in the middle of Central Park.
Bring your own blanket and beverages (no glass bottles, please) and we’ll provide light refreshments. RSVP on Eventbrite to receive updates on where to find us closer to the day.This event is open to YPT members and guests. To learn more about YPT-NYC, visit yptnyc.org.
Add event to calendarApple  •  Google  •   Outlook  •  Yahoo
Register now
Call for volunteersTransportationCamp NYC
TransportationCamp NYC is happening again in person this fall! Planning is already underway, and the TCamp Planning Committee is looking for additional volunteers to join the team and support logistics, sponsorships and day-of-event operations. Don’t miss this chance to be a part of an awesome “unconference”.
If you’re interested in getting involved, email Matthew Fiore at matthewfiore@nyu.edu.
Looking ahead
We’ve got TWO other special events planned for late July and/or early August. I’ll be updating this email with more information as we get it. You’re not going to want to miss these!
What’s hot this summer? Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest events and more. ☀️And the fun doesn’t stop here — we’re planning picnics and more behind-the-scenes tours throughout August and September.
June recap
Two great June events: SIMS facility tour and Pride Happy Hour!
July Monthly Member Profile
Olivia Limone is currently the Assistant Manager of Airport Maintenance at LaGuardia Airport. Prior to her current role, Olivia was a Leadership Fellow, a two-year rotational fellowship program with the Port Authority of NY & NJ. Olivia has a Masters in Urban Planning from NYU Wagner, where she focused her studies on transportation and sustainability. She currently lives in Manhattan, and grew up on Staten Island. Outside of work, Olivia loves to birdwatch and play board games. What’s your favorite YPT memory?
It’s too hard to choose one, but it’d have to be from the wonderful tours YPT sponsors. Gazing down on Grand Central from a catwalk high above, everyone covering their ears as a 6 train screeches by at Old City Hall Station, or standing on the bridge of the Staten Island Ferry, I really appreciate the opportunity to get behind the scenes and learn about how our transportation system works.
If you could snap your fingers and make one change to regional transportation, what would it be?
Improve first/last-mile connectivity! I think that’s a major hurdle to people taking public transportation. I love the idea of bike-share or bike parking at major transit hubs. I’d also be interested in learning other innovative and accessible solutions that other places have implemented. 
What’s your favorite way to get around the YPT-NYC region?
I love walking places when I have the time. Having grown up on Staten Island, I will always have a big place in my heart for the Staten Island Ferry though. 
What sparked your passion to work in the transportation industry?
I knew from an early age I wanted to pursue a career in public service. Simultaneously, I have always had an interest in transportation. I took a class on New York policy and planning while I was in undergrad which opened my eyes to transportation planning as a field. I thought it was a perfect way to meld those two areas. Transportation is something that impacts both people and the environment everyday, and helping make that the best it can be for people is what calls me to public service. While transportation obviously impacts people everywhere, I especially love working in the transportation industry in a uniquely complex place like the NYC-region. 
What career advice would you give to other YPTers interested in your career path?
Be a sponge. Learn about everything you can from everyone — both to network and gain industry knowledge. I love learning people’s career paths. Everyone’s looks different. You can learn about careers you didn’t even know existed. It’s also valuable to gain on-the-job knowledge — to learn more about the agency you work for, enhance your technical skills, and grow your knowledge in different areas of transportation.
What famous celebrity do you think should be given the opportunity to voice a NYCT Subway announcement?
Steve Buscemi; native New Yorker, great actor, and I love that he was an FDNY firefighter. 
What upcoming YPT event are you looking forward to the most in 2023?
Trivia! I’m not necessarily saying I’m the best person to have on your team, but I do love coming away with tons of more transportation fun facts.