November 17, 2023

By Lane Kimble

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Craig Thompson has repeatedly pushed for sustainable funding, safer roads, and a stronger workforce over the nearly five years since he became WisDOT Secretary.

Now, he’ll have the chance to also advocate for those goals on a nationwide level.

Thursday afternoon, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Board of Directors elected Thompson as its new president.

“As transportation needs continue to evolve, I am honored to serve as AASHTO’s president as we navigate the future together,” Secretary Thompson said in a WisDOT press release.“This is a very exciting and challenging time for transportation, but I see great opportunity for those of us in the industry to make a real impact for our communities.”

Thompson has served as AASHTO vice president since January.

Thompson’s three goals for his AASHTO presidency include helping communities realize the full promise of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, improve safety and reduce traffic deaths, and find new ways to attract and retain talented workers.

AASHTO represents the interests of the Departments of Transportation in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico.