What does the future of public transportation leadership look like? And who are the emerging professionals already making a difference?

On this special episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort is joined by Megan Perrero, Editor-in-Chief of @MassTransitMagazine , to celebrate the publication's 2026 40 Under 40 honorees. Now in its 18th year, the program recognizes 40 outstanding transit professionals under the age of 40 for their commitment, innovation, involvement, and contributions to the public transit industry.

Paul and Megan sit down with four honorees whose career paths demonstrate just how many ways there are to make an impact in transit:

- Amanda Barlow, Co-Founder and Principal Consultant at Cardinal HR Solutions, discusses the importance of workforce development, organizational culture, and relationships in effective leadership. She shares why leadership is something you practice, not simply a title you hold.

- Jessenia Fernandes, Director of Safety and Training at Merrimack Valley Transit (MeVa), shares her journey from bus operator to agency leadership. She explains how building training programs from the ground up and removing language barriers have helped frontline employees grow into successful careers.

- John Duklewski, Executive Director of the Transportation Association of Maryland (TAM), explores the power of statewide transit associations to connect professionals, strengthen agencies, and advocate for funding. He recounts how a legislative victory helped protect Maryland's locally operated transit systems from significant budget cuts.

- Latashia S. Vauss, Board Minutes Coordinator at New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit), offers a look behind the scenes of transit governance. She discusses how modernizing internal processes, strengthening communication, and supporting board operations can make a meaningful difference throughout an agency.

Throughout the conversations, a common theme emerges: successful transit leadership is built on curiosity, collaboration, mentorship, and a willingness to challenge the status quo.

From frontline training to legislative advocacy, these four professionals are demonstrating that innovation doesn't always require a new technology or a major capital project. Sometimes, it begins with asking better questions, improving an outdated process, or helping someone else succeed.

Whether you're beginning a career in public transportation, exploring a new professional path, or looking for ways to strengthen your own leadership skills, this episode offers valuable perspectives from some of the industry's rising leaders.

Learn more about the 2026 40 Under 40 honorees at MassTransitMag.com.

Subscribe to Transit Unplugged for conversations with the leaders and innovators shaping the future of mobility at TransitUnplugged.com.

Credits

Host and Producer: Paul Comfort

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Producer: Chris O’Keeffe

Production Assistant: Desmond Gates

Editor: Patrick Emile

Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin

Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people.

For more information, visit: www.Transit Unplugged.com

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.