Section 1 is pleased to present Kelley L. Kircher, P.E. as our candidate for the 2024 Statewide Transportation Professional of the Year Award. Beyond her technical skills, Kelley is a passionate and mentoring professional that is truly dedicated to the advancement of the transportation profession. After graduating from Clarkson University with a degree in Civil Engineering, Kelley began her career with Creighton Manning Engineering (CME) in 1999 as an Assistant Project Engineer in the Highway and Traffic Group. During her 19 years with CME, Kelley steadily advanced to the position of Senior Project Manager. In 2018, Kelley made a significant career change by joining the public sector with the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) in Region 1’s Design Group as a Project Manager/Squad Leader. In 2022, she joined Region 1’s Planning & Program Management Group to undertake program and pavement management responsibilities. Most recently, Kelley has accepted the position of Assistant Traffic and Safety Engineer for NYSDOT Region 1. Of particular note, Kelley is currently a Project Manager for the high-profile “Re-Imagine” I-787 Study in Albany County.

Kelley has been an active member and supporter of NYSATE for 20+ years. She currently serves as Section 1’s Vice-President as well as chairing Section 1’s Scholarship Committee. In addition to her ongoing support of Sectional events, Kelley will serve as the Technical Program Chair for NYSATE Conference 83 in 2025 to be held in Saratoga Springs.

A strong commitment to her community is fundamental to Kelley. She has been involved with the “Future City Competition” since 2005, a Troup Leader for Troop 1900 of the Girl Scouts of Northeastern New York, and a Co-Chair for the Science Fair/Project Showcase at the Green Meadow Elementary School. In addition, Kelley enjoys speaking to student classes about pursuing engineering as a career.

Kelley resides with her husband, Shane, and their two daughters, Madeline (13) and Charlotte (10) in East Greenbush, NY. Much of her “free” time is spent shuttling the girls around to their activities, including Girl Scouts and Odyssey of the Mind, and sports such as field hockey, basketball, lacrosse, and softball. While this takes up a lot of time, she loves watching “Maddy” and “Char” grow into strong, caring, responsible young ladies. Kelley is a planner at heart and loves to spend time preparing for her next travel adventure by learning about new places. She’s an avid reader and is always looking for new ways to recruit talented people to NYSDOT.

With enthusiasm, Section 1 is pleased to present Kelley Kircher as our candidate for the 2024 Statewide Transportation Professional of the Year.