Celebrating Excellence in Transportation
Every two years, the WTS Wisconsin Chapter proudly recognizes outstanding individuals, organizations, and projects that advance women in transportation, strengthen our industry, and serve our communities. These awards honor colleagues in the transportation field who have made incredible contributions to the WTS mission, to regional projects and programs, and to creating new opportunities for women in transportation.
Chapter award recipients are also nominated for consideration for the annual WTS International Awards.
Award nominations are accepted in the summer of even years and winners are honored at a special WTS Wisconsin event in the fall. Look for information on 2026 nomination forms and timelines soon!
Questions? Contact us at wts.wisconsin@gmail.com
AWARD CATEGORIES
The WTS Wisconsin Recognition Awards celebrate four categories:
Woman of the Year – Honors a woman whose career achievements and support of women in the industry have advanced the reputation and credibility of women in transportation.
Member of the Year – Recognizes a WTS Wisconsin member who has made extraordinary contributions to the success of the organization.
Employer of the Year – Recognizes an organization for demonstrated leadership in recruiting, retaining, and advancing women in transportation.
Project of the Year – Honors an outstanding transportation project, service, or initiative led by a woman that improves accessibility, advances community values, and strengthens mobility for users.
Award winners may be nominated for WTS International Awards and will be celebrated at our biennial recognition event.
Look for information on Nominations for the 2026 Awards soon!
Nomination Process
Nominations are accepted online. To nominate a person or organization, review the selection criteria for the appropriate award category and describe how your nominee meets that criteria.
Nomination forms and deadlines will be posted here when the 2026 cycle opens. Check back for updates or follow us on LinkedIn for announcements.
Past Winners
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2024 - Angela Adams, WisDOT
2022 - Donna Brown Martin, Milwaukee County
2020 - Debby Jackson, TDA
2018 - Sharon Bremser, WisDOT
2016 - Sheri Schmit, WisDOT Deputy Director of the Southeast Region
2013 - Dr. Connie Li, PE, TranSmart Technologies
2006 - Margaret “Peg” Schrader
2002 - Alice Morehouse, Director of the WisDOT Office of Policy and Budget
2001 - Rose Phetteplace, WisDOT District Director
2000 - Margaret Farrow, State Senator (later Lieutenant Governor)
1999 - Toya Nelson, Administrative Manager of Welfare-to-Work
1998 - Jean Jacobsen, Racine County Executive
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2024 - Kathleen Matson, HNTB
2022 - Julia Busch, HDR
2020 - Amelia Retrum, HNTB
2018 - Alex Motl, Graef
2016 - Lindsay Kaufmann, Michael Baker International
2013 - Sue Barker, PE, Michael Baker Jr. Inc.
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2024 - WisDOT’s Colleague Engagement Network – Empowering Women in Transportation
2018 - Lakefront Gateway I-794 Ramps at Lincoln Memorial Drive
2013 - Three Bridges Park (State of Wisconsin DOT/DNR, Menomonee Valley Partners, Inc., City of Milwaukee, and Urban Ecology Center)
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2024 - HNTB
2018 - raSmith
2016 - Michael Baker International
2013 - HNTB