GFT Supports Transportation’s Next Generation at COMTO National Meeting & Training Conference

The Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) celebrated its 55th anniversary at its Annual National Meeting & Training Conference, held July 25-28 in Washington, D.C. The event brought together transportation professionals from across North America to explore industry challenges, opportunities, and the future of mobility.

GFT sponsored the Workforce Development Plenary and Careers in Transportation for Youth (CITY) Internship Showcase, a program focused on internships, leadership development, and career pathways in transportation and infrastructure. The session provided a forum for students, emerging professionals, and industry leaders to discuss how organizations can prepare future transportation professionals.

As part of the showcase, GFT Director of Talent Acquisition & Inclusion Masai Lawson delivered sponsor remarks and moderated the “Leadership Pathways & Career Advancement” panel. The discussion featured student interns and early-career professionals who shared their experiences entering the transportation industry and developing the technical and leadership skills needed for long-term success.

Panelists representing civil engineering, mechanical engineering, economics, and computer science provided insights into what inspired them to pursue transportation careers, how internships shaped their professional goals, and the value of mentorship in transitioning from the classroom to the workplace. Their stories highlighted how hands-on experience can help students build confidence, develop practical skills, and better understand the many career opportunities available across the industry. 

A second panel, “Workforce Development & the Future of Transportation,” expanded the conversation to the skills, experience, and support systems needed to prepare tomorrow’s transportation leaders. Panelists discussed the importance of mentorship, leadership development, and internships in strengthening the industry’s talent pipeline. 

For GFT, supporting the plenary reflects our commitment to helping students and early-career professionals envision a future in transportation and infrastructure. By connecting emerging talent with industry leaders and real-world experiences, programs like the Workforce Development Plenary and CITY Internship Showcase help build a stronger workforce prepared to meet tomorrow’s transportation challenges.  

Learn more about careers at GFT, and apply to our open positions today.