ITS America Finds New Leader in Shailen Bhatt, Departing Colorado DOT Chief
The Intelligent Transportation Society of America announced Oct. 26 that Shailen Bhatt will serve as its new president.
ITS America is an association that advocates for the research and deployment of intelligent transportation systems. Bhatt will step down as executive director of the Colorado Department of Transportation in December.
Bhatt via Colorado Department of Transportation on YouTube
“Shailen Bhatt is uniquely positioned to drive the mission of ITS America forward as intelligent transportation and connected and autonomous vehicles are poised to dramatically alter the transportation landscape by increasing safety, equity, sustainability and economic opportunity in states and cities across the nation,” said ITS America Board Chairman Chris Murray. “The Board of Directors is pleased to welcome Shailen to ITS America.”
During his time in Colorado, Bhatt worked with the private sector on several endeavors that blended technology and transportation needs. For example, he arranged to conduct a feasibility study for rapid-speed travel infrastructure and partnered with Panasonic to build the world’s first commercial grade, licensable Connected Vehicle Ecosystem.
Prior to Colorado, Bhatt held leadership positions at Delaware DOT, the Federal Highway Administration and the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. Bhatt’s selection marks the conclusion of ITS America’s nationwide search for a leader. David St. Amant has served as interim president of the association since Aug. 1.
“Technology is transforming transportation at a breathtaking pace. Our vision for ITS America is to be the foremost thought-leading organization for the 21st century around intelligent transportation,” said Bhatt.
