The National Rural Transit Assistance Program (National RTAP) Conference is one of the nation’s premier gatherings for rural and Tribal transit professionals, bringing together transit leaders, agencies, vendors, and federal partners to exchange best practices and strengthen mobility across diverse communities. SWTA had a strong presence at the 2025 National RTAP Conference in Austin, Texas, with members featured across multiple key sessions.

SWTA Chairwoman Kendra McGeady moderated the Tribal Transit Panel with experts Kevin Tafoya, Amy Hill, Michelle Smith, and Darrell Williams, guiding a thoughtful discussion on funding, operational realities in remote communities, and the role of Tribal sovereignty in transportation planning. Her leadership underscored how Tribal transit serves as a critical connection to healthcare, education, employment, and cultural lifeways.

SWTA Board Member Olivia Hook (ODOT) led two mobility management workshops focused on cross-sector collaboration and designing programs that better serve rural and underserved communities. Her sessions provided clear strategies for improving coordinated mobility networks and expanding access for riders statewide.

Wendy Weedon, CEO of Brazos Transit District, shared insights during her session on TXDOT service expansion and lessons learned from regional growth. She highlighted the importance of planning, adaptability, and data-driven decision-making in meeting evolving community needs across Central and East Texas.

Deborah Bach, Rural Transit Program Manager at NMDOT, presented on the quality-of-life impacts of intercity, rural, and Tribal transit, along with coordinated approaches for diverse communities. Her work emphasized the value of collaboration and equitable service planning in improving mobility and well-being across New Mexico.

Ann Rajewski, Executive Director of CASTA, led a timely session titled “Navigating the Bumpy Road of Uncertainty – the Changing Federal Landscape.” She provided practical guidance on understanding policy shifts, federal expectations, and funding implications for transit agencies preparing for future regulatory changes.

SWTA Communications & Outreach Coordinator Michelle Robertson served as a featured speaker at the FTA Industry Leaders Luncheon, joining national experts to discuss rural and Tribal transit challenges and opportunities. She highlighted how effective communication, culturally relevant outreach, and community storytelling strengthen ridership, equity, and trust across transit systems.

The South West Transit Association (SWTA) is seeking proposals for Executive Director services to lead our dynamic, eight-state association representing rural, urban, and tribal transit partners across Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.

This role will guide SWTA’s strategic vision, oversee daily operations and finances, lead policy and legislative advocacy, and serve as the primary spokesperson to members, partners, and federal and state leaders.

SWTA is accepting applications from experienced individual leaders or qualified association management firms with a strong background in trade associations, public transit, public policy, or related fields. The ideal candidate will bring proven executive leadership, legislative and advocacy experience, strong communication skills, and a passion for advancing transit solutions across the Southwest. Candidates must reside in one of the SWTA states.

Learn more and apply by January 15, 2026:

SWTA is proud to spotlight Dinero Washington, SWTA Board Member and Past Chair, for a significant workforce development achievement that is helping shape the future of public transit in the Southwest and beyond. Under Dinero’s leadership, SporTran has received official approval from the Louisiana Apprenticeship Commission for Shreveport’s Registered Transit Apprenticeship Program—a historic milestone for the region and a model for transit agencies nationwide.

This innovative Registered Apprenticeship Program establishes a long-term pipeline of highly skilled transit mechanics trained to support diesel, hybrid, and zero-emission vehicle technologies. By combining paid, hands-on training with clear career pathways, the program strengthens workforce retention, expands access to high-quality jobs with benefits, and ensures agencies are prepared to maintain increasingly advanced fleets.

As transit systems across the country modernize, SporTran’s approach demonstrates how proactive workforce investment directly supports service reliability, safety, and community trust. The program also reinforces the critical role public transit plays in economic development, offering sustainable careers while building internal capacity to meet evolving industry demands.

Dinero’s leadership reflects the values SWTA champions across our eight-state region: innovation, people-first solutions, and forward-looking strategies that strengthen both agencies and communities. This accomplishment stands as an example of how strong transit leadership can drive lasting impact far beyond the bus stop.

Get ready — registration is officially open for the 2026 SWTA + New Mexico Joint Annual Conference & EXPO, presented by Model 1 Commercial Vehicles, taking place March 30–April 2, 2026, in Albuquerque! This year’s conference is already shaping up to be one of the most engaging and high-energy transit gatherings in the Southwest, bringing together rural, urban, and Tribal transit professionals for four days of learning, collaboration, and innovation.

Attendees can look forward to a powerful lineup of training sessions, national speakers, interactive workshops, and one of our largest and most dynamic EXPO floors yet, featuring industry leaders, emerging technologies, and hands-on product demonstrations.

Secure your spot and explore pricing options at:

 https://www.swta.org/2026-swta-nmta-joint-annual-conference-and-expo-pricing/

We can’t wait to welcome you to Albuquerque for a week filled with inspiration, discovery, and meaningful connection. Register today and be part of the momentum shaping the future of transit across the Southwest!