November 4 - 5
CALTRANS 2024 INNOVATION EXPO
The Power of Innovation and The Power of Research in Innovation
Join us virtually for our signature event, gathering innovators across California, the Nation, and the Globe. Historically, this multi-day event draws over 1,000 transportation, government, technology, and planning practitioners from Carlsbad to Copenhagen to showcase Caltrans' leadership in transportation innovations.
Featuring keynote speakers, live sessions, and ample collaboration opportunities, this Expo is not to be missed.
Innovation Expo Trailer
Speakers
Mike Keever, Deputy Director, Caltrans
Mike Keever was appointed Chief Deputy Director of Caltrans, effective January 20, 2022. In this role, he oversees all Caltrans operations, which include nearly 22,000 employees, a $15.5 billion budget, the extensive SB 1 infrastructure program, major efficiency initiatives, and leadership development.
Most recently, Mike served as Chief Engineer and Deputy Director for Caltrans' Project Delivery, where he oversaw a program of nearly 9,000 employees and an annual budget of approximately $2 billion.
With more than thirty years of experience at Caltrans, Mike has held numerous positions, including Chief Engineer, Deputy Director of Project Delivery, Division Chief of Project Management, and Division Chief of Engineering Services. Additionally, Mike has been actively involved in infrastructure policy and research, working with AASHTO, TRB, NCHRP, and research universities across the country.
Mike graduated from the University of Southern California with a Bachelor of Science in Structural Design and is a licensed Civil Engineer.
Marcie Kahbody, Chief Information Officer, Caltrans
Marcie Kahbody is the Deputy Secretary of Technology and Agency Information Officer (AIO) for the California State Transportation Agency, as well as the Chief Information Officer (CIO) for Caltrans. As Caltrans CIO, she is directly responsible for the agency’s information technology programs, projects, and personnel. She also serves as co-chair of the Innovation Leadership Council (ILC).
Marcie has held Information Technology positions within the State of California for over 32 years, including serving as the Agency Information Officer at CalSTA since 2015. She spent the majority of her career—nearly 20 years—at the Department of General Services, where she worked as an Information Technology Manager and network administrator.
Marcie earned a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from California State University, Sacramento, and participated in the state’s Information Technology Leadership Academy in 2012.
Dara Wheeler, Division Chief of DRISI
Dara Wheeler is the Division Chief of Research Innovation and System Information (DRISI). She is responsible for managing a staff of 150 engineers, planners, environmental researchers, and research data analysts, with an annual budget of nearly $70 million. Dara’s role is instrumental in providing, facilitating, and delivering Caltrans’ research needs to address new challenges and seize opportunities in the transportation sector. Dara is the Co-Chair of the AASHTO Innovation Community of Practice and Vice-Chair of the AASHTO Innovation Management committee, which is driving the entire industry forward
Dara brings 33 years of broad public service experience. She previously served as Chief of the Rail and Mass Transportation Program, Chief of Staff for the Caltrans Director, and in several other roles. She also worked for Governor Pete Wilson in various capacities.
Dara holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from SDSU (San Diego State University).