Individuals in Transit: BATA, Amtrak, Trinity Metro, Denver RTD, VRE, and WTS International are in motion.
Leadership Shuffles in Transportation Authorities Across the US
Several transportation authorities have announced new leadership appointments, with notable changes at the Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA), Amtrak, Trinity Metro, Denver Regional Transportation District (RTD), and Virginia Railway Express (VRE).
At BATA, Jeff Meilbeck has taken on a leadership role, though specific details about his position are yet to be announced. Meilbeck brings over 25 years of transit and municipal leadership experience, having previously served as the CEO and general manager of the Northern Arizona Intergovernmental Public Transportation Authority.
Amtrak's Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (EVP & CFO) role has been filled by Costin Corneanu, effective from August 4, 2025. Corneanu, who has over two decades of legal experience, including 15 years with the Arlington County Attorney's Office, will oversee all financial activities, including reporting, forecasting, strategic planning for growth, accounting, treasury, grants, audit, risk and controls, and capital portfolio governance. Sarah Bagley, VRE Operations Board Chair, praised Corr's deep understanding of regional transportation law and her previous experience working with regional transportation partners and providers, making her an exceptional choice for general counsel.
Reed Lanham has taken a leadership role at Trinity Metro, though the specifics are not yet clear. Lanham, with more than 25 years of leadership in nonprofit management, public policy, and strategic marketing and communications, played key roles in the start-up of TEXRail and the implementation of regional Positive Train Control at Trinity Metro. Under his leadership, TEXRail has experienced a 12 to 13 percent annual growth rate.
Greg Smith has been appointed to a leadership position at Denver RTD. Smith, who has over two decades of experience in public transportation, including management of fixed-route bus, paratransit, and demand-response services, led the renegotiation of complex service delivery contracts and service modifications that significantly improved the agency's financial position. He joined Denver RTD in 2006 as a service planner and scheduler and has progressively served in management positions within special services, contracted services, and bus operations.
MinhChau Corr has assumed a leadership role at VRE, though the details are not yet available. Corr spent eight years at Spirit Airlines and four years at US Airways before joining Amtrak.
Lastly, Malika Reed Wilkins has taken a leadership position at WTS International. Wilkins, who has over eight years of experience at the Atlanta Regional Commission, most recently as chief strategy officer and chief external affairs officer, joins WTS International as CEO and executive director of WTS International and the WTS Foundation.
While the specific titles and roles for some of these appointees are not yet clear, these changes aim to strengthen the financial management and operations of these transportation authorities amidst growing demand. Further direct sources or organizational announcements may provide more specific information about these leadership changes.
[1] Amtrak Announces Costin Corneanu as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Amtrak Press Release, Link [2] Costin Corneanu Named Amtrak's Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Railway Age, Link [3] Amtrak Appoints Costin Corneanu as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Progressive Railroading, Link [4] Sources: Google Search, conducted on [Date]
- As Amtrak introduces Costin Corneanu as their new Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, technology-aided financial management systems may be implemented, possibly revolutionizing Amtrak's financial recording, forecasting, and strategic planning for growth.
- With MinhChau Corr assuming a leadership role at Virginia Railway Express (VRE), it's expected that rail transportation lifestyle could see an improvement, as her experience from Spirit Airlines and US Airways might bring a fresh perspective on passenger comfort and service.
- In the world of sports, Malika Reed Wilkins's leadership at WTS International could potentially introduce sponsorships or partnerships with transportation entities, enhancing the travel experience for both athletes and spectators alike.
