Our Profession's Dedication

By Dr. Beverly Kuhn P.E., PTOE, PMP posted 04-07-2020 12:54 PM

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The three weeks since I was elected ITE VP have been a roller-coaster ride to say the least. I have barely had time to breathe - like most of us - shifting to a remote work situation, navigating a high schooler doing online coursework, extracting our college freshman from his dorm, and - most importantly - ensuring the safety of my family. As we have settled into some semblance of a routine, I have carved out time to channel my heightened stress energy for a productive purpose. The sewing process has been therapeutic, yielding masks for those who need them. They have been delivered across the street, across the state, and across the world. This batch is off to my 87-year-old mother's retirement community as the residents and staff are now required to wear them at all times.

As I look at this assembly of fabric and thread, I realize that it represents so much more than a deterrent to spreading germs. It is a testament to our colleagues across the globe who are committed to ensuring our communities continue to support their citizens through this crisis. Approximately 60 million Americans still go to work every day, including transportation professionals who keep the traffic signal systems and the roadway network operational, who respond to incidents, who support first responders, and who keep transit running. They embody our dedication to our communities as front line workers to keep the wheels on the bus. They also represent our knack for being flexible and creative, using the resources we have on hand to make things happen and to achieve our mission. For those of you who leave your home every day to conduct your work as essential employees, I am humbled by your selfless service.

I hope to be worthy of serving our members as ITE VP, and I look forward to hearing from you as we navigate this unique challenge for our profession. We are in uncharted territory that is ripe for creativity and innovation! And if your agency, department, or group needs some masks, please let me know. I have more on the cutting table that are looking for a good home!

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