Navigating the AI Era: Women, Leadership, and the Future of Transportation

Artificial Intelligence is transforming how we design, plan, and move — but what does it really mean for women leading in the transportation industry today?

Join WTS Puget Sound for an engaging and interactive AI workshop and panel discussion exploring the intersection of artificial intelligence, transportation, and women’s leadership.

Featuring Dr. Joan Palmiter Bajorek, founder of Women in Voice, and Leslie S. Langley, Head of Professional Services at Optibus, this session will combine an AI fundamentals workshop with an engaging panel conversation on leadership, ethics, and balance in the age of intelligent technology. The workshop will provide hands-on experience with AI tools. Together, the panel speakers will examine how emerging technologies can both support and challenge women leaders as they navigate careers, households, and innovation.

Enjoy lunch and networking with peers as we explore meaningful discussions on how AI is shaping the future of our industry. Doors open at 8:30 am, with the morning session starting at 9:00 am.

Please contact WTSPugetSound.ProfDev@gmail.com with any questions about the event.

WTS will sponsor two (2) no-cost tickets to reduce barriers to inclusion for those who would otherwise be unable to attend due to cost. If you are interested in one of these no cost tickets, please submit your interest to WTSPugetSound.ProfDev@gmail.com.

About the Speakers

Dr. Joan Palmiter Bajorek, an industry leader and advocate for ethical AI and gender equity in technology, brings her experience founding Women in Voice to the discussion—highlighting how inclusive and mindful innovation can empower women across industries.

Leslie S. Langley leads Professional Services at Optibus, a global platform for public transit data and rider information tools. With a background spanning city and regional planning, and transit technology, Leslie brings a thoughtful, hands-on perspective to how AI is reshaping the way we plan, move, and lead.

Help Shape This Event (1-minute Survey)

We want this event to be as relevant and ipactful as possible for attendees.

If you're interested in attending, please take 1 minute to complete a short, 5-question survey. Your input will help us tailor the discussion topics, panel focus, and takeaways around AI, leadership, and transportation.

Complete the 1-minute survey here ->

Thank you - we truly value your perspective and look forward to welcoming you to the event!