Learning Metro’s Big Plan: A Conversation with Sharon Gookin, Deputy Chief Executive Director

On October 25th, USC ITE was pleased to host Ms. Sharon Gookin, P.E., Deputy Chief Executive Officer of LA Metro, to share her career experience and insights on Metro’s Big Plan on transportation.

Ms. Gookin began her conversation by looking back at her college journey and reflecting on her active engagement in student-professional chapters, such as the Society of Women Engineers (SWE). When pursuing her post-graduate degree at UC Berkeley, Ms. Gookin focused on experimental research and projects that encompassed a range of topics, such as concrete, bridge construction and post-earthquake damage analysis. Ms. Gookin spent nearly three decades building major transportation infrastructure around the country. In 2022, Ms. Gookin was appointed to her current position with LA Metro.

Ms. Gookin offered an overview of Metro’s current initiatives and programs - $8.8 billion worth just in fiscal year 2023! Students were pleased to learn about Metro’s efforts enhancing the accessibility of the public transportation system throughout the Los Angeles Basin. One example is the Airport Metro Connector project. Scheduled to open in late 2024, the project will further alleviate congestion at LAX airport and provide passengers with more transportation choices other than driving.

During the subsequent Q & A session, students enthusiastically discussed their observations, perceptions, and personal experiences as Metro users. One student inquired about the challenges for Los Angeles to improve public transit systems, particularly when compared to New York. Ms. Gookin patiently explained some key challenges, including the sparse communities in Los Angeles versus a far more compact streetscape in New York. Furthermore, private cars continue to be the most used mode of transport by Angelenos. Change in their travel behaviors would take more time throughout the region. Ms. Gookin stressed Metro’s efforts in providing clean stations, trains, and buses, along with improving riders’ safety. These elements are an integral part of achieving a better customer experience leading to travelers’ willingness to use public transit instead of their private vehicles.

After the presentation, students continued chatting with Ms. Gookin on a wide range of topics. We greatly appreciate her time and explanation on LA Metro funding sources, priorities, and potential career opportunities to become a major contributor in our future transportation fabric.