A Conversation With Tao:
Congratulations on your recent graduation from the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Emerging Leaders Program! What key lessons have improved your day-to-day work?
The APTA Emerging Leaders Program was a great experience. Three key lessons I learned are that communication bridges the gap between technical work and broader impact, networks drive innovation, and convenience fosters collaboration.
Communication
I am continually learning how powerful and effective communication can be. One key lesson is the importance of translating complex technical concepts into clear, relevant language. Doing so not only builds trust but also minimizes confusion and keeps projects moving forward.
Innovation
Renowned author and speaker Ken Blanchard once said, “None of us is as smart as all of us.” This is especially true in a complex field like public transit. Knowing the right people across disciplines opens doors to innovative solutions, accelerates problem-solving, and ultimately leads to better project outcomes. I see the impact of this every day, where collaboration across teams is key to overcoming challenges and driving progress.
Collaboration
By focusing on making things convenient for others — whether through simplifying processes, being clear, or eliminating obstacles — we create an environment that encourages comfort and openness. When people feel at ease, they are more likely to engage, share ideas, and work together toward the best outcomes. I am intentional in my efforts, which has helped our team collaborate more effectively and solve challenges more efficiently.
As a recipient of the 2023 President’s Innovation Award, how does innovation translate to increased value for our clients?
Innovation adds value for our clients by providing more cost-effective, sustainable, and adaptable solutions. By adopting new technologies or streamlining processes, we can reduce costs, accelerate timelines, and enhance the long-term functionality of critical infrastructure. Clients see the benefit in solutions that not only meet today’s needs but are also resilient to handle future demands.
My desire to be innovative comes from the need to constantly improve and find better ways to solve the challenges we face in the public transit industry. Every project brings its own set of complexities, and I’m motivated by the opportunity to address these challenges creatively. Innovation allows us to adapt to new technologies, anticipate future needs, and deliver solutions that improve effectiveness and reliability, ultimately benefiting the people who rely on these systems.
What advice would you give to young engineers beginning their journeys?
One piece of advice I received from my mentor, which I totally agree with, is to say “yes” to everything. Early in your career, it can be tempting to play it safe, but saying “yes” to new opportunities, whether big or small, helps you grow and build a diverse skill set. It may feel intimidating at times, but embracing new challenges creates learning experiences and helps you gain confidence. The more you say “yes,” the more you’ll discover about yourself and your capabilities. It’s all part of the journey toward becoming a well-rounded engineer.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
Most people don’t know that I’m a big fan of cartoons. I’ve always appreciated the creativity, storytelling, and humor they bring, which often comes with meaningful underlying messages. They have a unique way of blending imagination with real-world themes, and I find that inspiring. It’s a reminder that even in technical fields like engineering, creativity plays a big role in how we solve problems and connect with people.
What is your favorite way to unwind after a busy day?
You might guess that I’d watch cartoons to unwind, and sometimes I do, but more often, I turn to music. Many people know that I’m a vinyl lover and collector, so there’s something especially relaxing about dropping the needle on a record and letting the music play. I also enjoy going to concerts whenever I can; there’s something energizing about experiencing live music that helps me reset in a different way. Whether it’s something calm or upbeat, music helps me decompress, clear my head, and shift out of work mode. It’s a small habit that helps me stay balanced and recharged day-to-day.
This Employee Spotlight was originally published on July 1, 2025.
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Tao Xue, PE
