Jan 20 2024 55 mins
In this engaging conversation on the QBS Express, host Scott Heidner is joined by Calvin Reed, Kansas Secretary of Transportation and Director of the Kansas Turnpike Authority, and Greg Shieber, the Deputy Secretary and State Transportation Engineer for the state of Kansas. Both guests share a glimpse of their personal backgrounds, their journeys into the realm of civil engineering, and their experiences working with the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT). They provide valuable insights into KDOT's broad mission, stressing its significant roles beyond the design and paving of roads and building of bridges. The conversation also highlights the agency's vital partnerships at the state, federal, and local level, the challenges and opportunities lying ahead for KDOT, and the critical role of the workforce in the future of engineering and infrastructure projects.
00:09 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:02 Guest Background: Greg Schieber
06:45 Guest Background: Calvin Reed
15:17 Understanding KDOT's Role and Responsibilities
23:57 Interactions with Policymakers at State and Federal Level
32:33 Appreciation for Agency Partners
33:07 Working with Local Units and Government
34:13 Building Relationships with Local Authorities
34:34 Challenges in Local Infrastructure Maintenance
34:59 Investing in Local Bridge Improvement Program
36:13 Developing a Local Bridge Planning Tool
36:42 Future Challenges in Local System Investment
37:07 The Role of KDOT in Supporting Local Governments
37:37 Creation of the Kansas Infrastructure Hub
38:31 Looking Forward: Challenges and Opportunities for KDOT
38:52 Delivering the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program
39:25 Future Funding for Transportation
41:09 Workforce Challenges in the Industry
42:30 Innovation and Changing Technologies in Infrastructure
43:15 Managing Inflation in Local Projects
44:12 Future of Preservation and Modernization of Infrastructure
Other Resources:
This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net