Women in Transportation - The Series

Marla Montiel was drawn to the transportation industry by the implementation of the New Mexico Rail Runner Express. She began her career with the Mid-Region Council of Governments (MRCOG) more than 17 years ago, and has held several roles within the organization. Now, as Special Projects Manager, Montiel works with a variety of programs, including Rio Metro and the Rail Runner, and enjoys the fact that no two projects are alike. 

In this profile, Montiel discusses embracing the challenges of ever-changing technology, implementing new ways of disseminating information, and the importance of getting involved and constantly learning. 

Josephine Vigil has been working with the Rio Metro Regional Transit District for more than 15 years. She started her career path as an Accountant, and is currently the Senior Finance Manager. In this profile, Vigil discusses the value of public transportation, how women have made a difference in the industry by challenging stereotypes, and the importance of connecting with mentors and experienced professionals when pursuing a career in transit. 

Kendra Montanari began her work with the Mid-Region Council of Governments (MRCOG) more than 20 years ago. She joined the organization in 2002 as a Travel Demand Modeler, and naturally moved through different roles in the organization. For the past three years, she has worked as the Transportation Planning and Technical Services Manager. In this profile, Montanari discusses evolving and adapting to the ever-changing industry, the positive impact a professor and mentor had on her approach to work and life, the value of making face to face connections, and more.