Feedback November 2008

STUDENT QUOTES – NOVEMBER 2008 SESSION

“The opportunity to learn from others in similar and different fields was invaluable. Field visits were extremely valuable in comparison to my own experiences. I came away with specific ways I can improve my organization.” Homer Coffman, Regional Traffic Operations Manager, Virginia DOT

“I would highly recommend the Operations Academy™ Senior Management Program to ‘anyone’ within the transportation field. The diverse background of each student and the amount of information from each organization was most valuable. The program structure and facilitators were professional and provided an excellent environment for learning. Each presentation was well introduced and provided detailed information on every topic. I will certainly take what I have learned back to my organization.” Robert Cuomo, Lieutenant, New Jersey State Police

“This was an eye opening course that stressed management and operations. Students will be exposed to many areas of ITS and will be challenged to open their minds to a new way of thinking. The camaraderie of the students was also a valuable learning aspect along with this course.” Richard Deen, ITS Section Manager, Pennsylvania DOT

“The Operations Academy™ provided a unique opportunity to learn from nationally recognized transportation operations experts. The course subject matter is highly relevant for any professional working in the transportation field.” John Frainier, Statewide Operations Center Manager, New York State Thruway Authority

“I would strongly recommend this program. It offers a wonderful mix of lectures, discussion, field trips and group workshops. The speakers were excellent and classroom dialogues were highly relevant.” Mac Lister, ITS Specialist, Federal Highway Administration

“I gained much insight which I plan to take back and implement into my operations. I have an even broader view of the entire picture. This course re energized me to regain focus. This program would be beneficial to all disciplines including Senior Management, politicians, and a summary report to the Secretary and Governor.” Alvin Marquess, Operations Manager, Maryland SHA

“I will highly recommend this academy to other managers in New York State DOT. The training was on-point and pertinent. The interactions with other academy attendees who are all involved with management and operations is an invaluable part of the entire experience.” Robert Rella, Hudson Valley TMC Manager, New York State DOT

“In two weeks, this program makes you a believer in management & operations. It’s not your typical course program. The mix of field study, classroom lectures from experts in the field, and workshops makes it enjoyable and interesting. I have gained not only new knowledge, but new friends who will help me to make needed changes long after our class ends.” Mary Ridgeway, Assistant Division Administrator, Federal Highway Administration

“The Operations Academy™ gives participants a well-rounded perspective. Too often we can get focused on one or two major aspects of an operations program and loose sight of the importance of others.” Doug Tomlinson, ITS Division Manager, Pennsylvania DOT

“The Operations Academy™ Program was an excellent opportunity to bring together people from different backgrounds in the transportation field for the purposes of learning not only from the course material, but also from each other. John R. Townend, Traffic Operations Center Supervisor, New Jersey Turnpike Authority