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.

At the 2025 National RTAP Conference in Austin, Texas, the South West Transit Association (SWTA) had a strong presence, with members leading and participating in multiple high-impact sessions focused on rural, Tribal, and coordinated transit.

Leadership in Tribal Transit Conversations

SWTA Chairwoman Kendra McGeady moderated the Tribal Transit Panel, guiding a thoughtful and timely discussion alongside experts Kevin Tafoya, Amy Hill, Michelle Smith, and Darrell Williams. The panel explored funding challenges, operational realities in remote communities, and the critical role of Tribal sovereignty in transportation planning. The conversation reinforced the essential role Tribal transit plays in connecting communities to healthcare, education, employment, and cultural lifeways — and highlighted innovative approaches being used across Tribal systems nationwide.

Advancing Mobility Management and Collaboration

SWTA Board Member Olivia Hook (Oklahoma Department of Transportation) led two mobility management workshops focused on cross-sector collaboration and designing programs that better serve rural and underserved communities. Her sessions provided practical strategies for improving coordinated mobility networks, expanding access, and strengthening partnerships across agencies and service providers.

Lessons in Growth and Service Expansion

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

Quality of Life and Coordinated Transit Approaches

Deborah Bach, Rural Transit Program Manager at the New Mexico Department of Transportation, presented on the quality-of-life impacts of intercity, rural, and Tribal transit. Her session highlighted coordinated approaches to serving diverse communities and underscored the importance of equitable service planning in improving mobility and overall well-being across New Mexico.

Navigating Federal Uncertainty

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 federal policy shifts, regulatory expectations, and funding implications, helping agencies prepare for future changes with greater confidence.

Elevating the Role of Communication and Storytelling

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

SWTA’s Continued National Impact 

SWTA is proud to see its members and leaders contributing meaningfully to national conversations that shape the future of rural and Tribal transit. The association’s strong presence at the 2025 National RTAP Conference reflects SWTA’s ongoing commitment to leadership development, collaboration, and advancing mobility solutions that serve communities of all sizes across the Southwest and beyond.