October 1, 2026  |  Committee Meetings, Road Safety Summit, and Sponsors’ Networking Reception

Room: Foyer

Room: Markham Ballroom

Welcome Remarks: Safety and Training Chair Sabrina Pasian (10:00 am – 10:10 am)

Safety and Training Committee

Chair:

  • Sabrina Pasian, Chief Safety Officer – OC Transpo

Vice Chairs:

  • Karen Lusk, Supervisor Safety and Training, Transportation Operations – York Region Transit
  • Laurie Krahl, Director, Bus Safety – Metrolinx

HR/Ops Committee

Chair:

  • Nouraiz Akbar, Senior Manager, Transit Operations, Brampton Transit

Vice Chairs:

  • Haley D’Angelo, Human Resources Business Partner, ONTC
  • Jordan Papazoglou, Transit Innovator, Left Turn Right Turn
Topic: Fireside Chat: Training Expert Panel – How Training Has Evolved and Where It’s Headed (10:10 am – 11:00 am)

Moderator: Adam Arbour, Director, Transit Operations, Niagara Transit Commission
Adam began his transit career behind the wheel as a bus operator with the St. Catharines Transit Commission in 2003, an experience that gave him a firsthand appreciation for the people, teamwork and dedication that keep communities moving. Since then, he has held leadership roles in supervision, training, scheduling and planning, bringing a well-rounded operational perspective and a genuine passion for continuous improvement to his work. Adam has worked on many projects in his career including implementation CAD/AVL technology in St. Catharines and redevelopment of the driver training curriculum for both St. Catharines and Niagara. Adam has been P.R.I.D.E. Master Trainer since 2017. Outside work, Adam enjoyed traveling by training and is the district chief at his location fire station.

Panelists:

  • Marc Richer, Manager, Transit Training and Development – OC Transpo
  • Karen Lusk, Supervisor Safety and Training, Transportation Operations – York Region Transit
    Karen Lusk is the Supervisor, Safety & Training at York Region Transit. She joined York Region in December 2010 and has over three decades of experience in Safety & Training, having started her career in 1995. Throughout her career, Karen has focused on promoting safety culture, employee development, and continuous improvement within transit operations. She is also actively involved in testing and embracing emerging technologies that enhance safety for transit riders, operators, and all road users.
  • Mark Duffy, Manager, Safety and Training, Durham Region Transit
    Mark Duffy is a seasoned public transit professional with more than 40 years of experience in operations, maintenance, safety, training, and workforce development. Mark spent 30 years with the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), beginning as an Operator in all revenue service departments, before becoming an Instructor in the Training Department. He later served as Chief Instructor for both Operations and Maintenance and held Acting Manager roles in each area, leading training, professional development, operational oversight, and workforce management initiatives. For the past 10 years, Mark has served as Lead Safety and Training Manager with Durham Region Transit, leading programs focused on safety, employee development, training excellence, and operational performance. Throughout his career, Mark has been dedicated to developing people, strengthening safety culture, and advancing effective, sustainable training programs. His unique combination of frontline, instructional, operational, maintenance, and leadership experience provides valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities facing today’s public transit industry.
  • Omar Rasheed, Manager, Equipment Training, Transit, MiWay
    Omar Rasheed is a transit maintenance and technical training professional with more than 20 years of experience in fleet maintenance, safety, workforce development, and emerging vehicle technologies.
    A licensed 310T Truck and Coach Technician, Omar has progressed from frontline maintenance into technical training and leadership. Currently with MiWay, he leads Technical Training & Development initiatives focused on employee onboarding, technical and compliance training, competency development, and workforce readiness.
    A key focus of Omar’s current role is supporting MiWay’s hydrogen readiness as the organization prepares for the introduction of its first hydrogen fuel cell bus. His work includes developing employee training and competency requirements, supporting maintenance and safety readiness, and collaborating with OEMs, emergency services, and industry partners to prepare employees and facilities for this emerging technology.
    Omar currently serves as Chair of the Ontario Public Transit Association (OPTA) Maintenance Committee and participates in Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) initiatives and industry working groups. Through these roles, he collaborates with transit agencies, OEMs, colleges, and industry partners to advance technical training, safety, apprenticeship development, workforce readiness, and emerging technologies.
Topic: Fitness for Duty Best Practices – Exploring Processes and Challenges (11:00 am – 11:30 am)

Moderator/Chair:

  • Sabrina Pasian, Chief Safety Officer, OC Transpo
    Sabrina Pasian is the Chief Safety Officer at OC Transpo. In this role, she oversees four distinct branches within her service area, including, the Safety Standards, Investigations and Reporting branch, the Training & Development branch, the Special Constable Unit and the Regulatory Compliance, Quality Control & Assurance branch.

  • Nouraiz Akbar – Senior Manager, Transit Operations, City of Brampton
    Nouraiz Akbar is a transit professional with over 11 years of progressive experience in the public transportation industry. Throughout his career with Brampton Transit, Nouraiz has demonstrated a strong commitment to operational excellence, safety, and customer service, supported by extensive experience in both operations management and labor relations. He began his career as an Operator, gaining valuable frontline experience and a deep understanding of daily transit operations. Building on this foundation, he advanced into leadership roles including Supervisor of Service Delivery and Senior Supervisor of Operations, where he played a key role in overseeing service performance, supporting frontline staff, managing complex operational challenges, and fostering effective labor relations through collaboration and communication. Most recently, Nouraiz has taken on the role of Senior Manager of Operations, where he leads a diverse team of transit professionals while providing strategic leadership and direction to support organizational goals, enhance service delivery, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. Nouraiz is recognized as a strong driver of positive change, consistently seeking opportunities to improve processes, strengthen team performance, and deliver reliable, customer focused transit service.

Panelists:

  • Matt Hopkins, Executive Director – People, Toronto Transit Commission
    Matt Hopkins is Executive Director in the Toronto Transit Commission’s People & Culture Group, where he leads strategic HR and labour relations initiatives. He brings a pragmatic approach to union-management relations, shaped by years of experience navigating complex labour negotiations in the public sector.  In 2024 and 2026, he served as lead spokesperson across six rounds of collective bargaining with TTC unions, including high-stakes negotiations with the TTC’s two largest unions where agreements were reached just ahead of strike deadlines. In the coming weeks, he will be beginning a new role overseeing the transformation of the TTC’s People & Culture function. Matt was also the Director of Employee Relations when the TTC’s Fitness for Duty program was first expanded to include Random Drug & Alcohol Testing in 2017. Matt holds a Master’s in Industrial Relations from Queen’s University.
Topic: CVOR Program Evolution: Trends, Enhancements, and the Road Ahead (11:45 – 12:15 PM)

The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) will share insights into planned enhancements to the CVOR Program and highlight industry trends that are influencing the program’s future state and ongoing evolution.

Moderator/Chair:

  • Sabrina Pasian, Chief Safety Officer – OC Transpo
    Sabrina Pasian is the Chief Safety Officer at OC Transpo. In this role, she oversees four distinct branches within her service area, including, the Safety Standards, Investigations and Reporting branch, the Training & Development branch, the Special Constable Unit and the Regulatory Compliance, Quality Control & Assurance branch.

Speakers:

  • Lisa Venier, Sr. Manager, Carrier Sanctions and Investigations Office — houses the Commercial Vehicle Operator’s Registration (CVOR) program – MTO
    Lisa Venier is the Senior Manager for the Carrier Sanctions and Investigations Office within the Commercial Safety and Compliance Branch. With over 30 years of experience in commercial vehicle safety and regulatory compliance, she provides leadership in program standards, investigations, and carrier sanctions.
    Lisa has held progressively senior roles, including CVOR Analyst, Senior Regulatory Compliance Administrator and Program Standards Manager. She is recognized for her strong analytical skills, sound regulatory judgement, and ability to ensure consistent, fair, and evidence‑based outcomes. Her approach emphasizes collaboration with partners and stakeholders, risk‑based decision‑making, and continuous improvement.
    Lisa holds an Honours degree in Psychology from Brock University and has contributed to program development through research, including an effectiveness study of the Commercial Vehicle Operator’s Registration (CVOR) Intervention Model.
  • Hala Mair, Senior Policy Advisor, Carrier Sanctions and Investigations Office – MTO
    Hala Mair is a Senior Policy Advisor in the Carrier Sanctions and Investigations Office within the Commercial Safety and Compliance Branch. Through their roles in the Ministry of Transportation, they have led policy development and program administration for several of Ontario’s key commercial transportation programs, including the Commercial Vehicle Operator’s Registration program and the Shortline Railways program. In their work, Hala is regarded as an effective consensus builder, bringing together stakeholders across governments and industries to strengthen safety outcomes across Ontario’s transportation network. Hala holds an Honours degree in Political Science from Brock University, where they completed research on Indigenous-Crown relationships and local government public policy.
Topic: Standing Item: Developing Best Practices Using a Safe Systems Approach (12:15 – 12:30 PM)

This standing item has been added as per Recommendation 58 of the Coroner’s Inquest which recommended that CUTA and the OPTA should add recent serious transit bus collisions as a standing item at meetings with a view to sharing lessons learned and developing best practices, using a safe systems approach.

Recommendation 58 of the Coroner’s Inquest

Moderator/Chair:

  • Sabrina Pasian, Chief Safety Officer – OC Transpo
    Sabrina Pasian is the Chief Safety Officer at OC Transpo. In this role, she oversees four distinct branches within her service area, including, the Safety Standards, Investigations and Reporting branch, the Training & Development branch, the Special Constable Unit and the Regulatory Compliance, Quality Control & Assurance branch.

Speaker:

Tyler Davey, Superintendent, Staff Development and Training, Hamilton Street Railway

 

Location: York Region Transit (YRT) Orlando Garage

York Region Transit (YRT) Orlando Garage Tech Tour. Due to parking limitations, shuttle buses will leave the Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites at 9:15 am.

The facility tour will provide an overview of key operational areas within both the bus maintenance and storage facilities. The maintenance portion of the tour will highlight the areas where vehicle inspections, servicing, repairs, and preventative maintenance activities are performed.

The tour will also include the bus storage area, showcasing the facilities and processes that support daily fleet operations, including bus cleaning and fueling activities. In addition, visitors will have the opportunity to tour the bus simulator room, where operator training and development activities are conducted, as well as the dispatch room, which serves as the operational hub for fleet monitoring, communications, and service coordination.  Attendees will also have the chance to see new technologies implemented by YRT including Bus Pulse – The Integrated Hub for Fleet Managers and new bus technologies installed on the YRT Fleets.

Speakers:

  • Al Pritchard, Fleet Manager – York Region Transit
  • Naeem Farooqi, CEO & Co-Founder – FleetZero
  • Lynn Snoddon, Supervisor, Transit Fleet Systems – York Region Transit

 

Location: York Region Transit (YRT) Orlando Garage

Due to parking limitations, shuttle buses will leave the Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites at 9:15 am.

Welcome Remarks – Executive Committee

Chair:

  • Michelle Martin, Manager, Accessible Transportation Services – Hamilton Street Railway

Vice Chairs:

  • Deborah Daniel, Program Manager, Community Engagement & Change Management – Durham Region Transit
  • Stephen Labelle, General Manager – SMART Mobility
  • Bryan Basford, Executive Director – Kingston Access
  • Graham Hauptman, Transit Innovator – Left Turn Right Turn
Mobile Data Terminals, Distracted Driving, and Specialized Transit

Speaker:

  • Martin Abadi, Partner, Dentons
  • Raymond Ashurov, Counsel, Dentons
Experience with AODA Audits
Roundtable Discussion
  • Collection and Privacy of Demographic Data in Paratransit Applications
  • Demand vs Budget
  • Mobility Device Accommodation and Lift Safety in Conventional Transit Systems
  • Creating a Pipeline for TMU Studio Projects

 

Room: Foyer

Room: Foyer

Room: Markham Ballroom

Room: Markham Ballroom

This session will feature senior safety officers sharing perspectives on the most significant safety initiatives currently confronting transit systems and the measures being implemented to address them. Participants will gain insight into the wide range of issues affecting agencies, from sharing tips on protecting vulnerable road users to operational risks and broader community concerns.

Moderator:

  • David Cooper, Principal of Leading Mobility
    Since 2005, David Cooper has contributed to numerous transformative transportation initiatives across Canada. David is the founder and principal of Leading Mobility, a transportation planning firm that offers strategic and planning support for public transit, infrastructure delivery, stakeholder support, and government relations projects and initiatives. David’s distinctive experience as the only urban planner in Canada who has practiced in the public sector in Vancouver, Calgary and Toronto provide clients unique perspectives on how to successfully shepherd politically sensitive projects through large municipal and regional governments. Through his work in these three major cities, David has been integral in all stages of planning, procurement, delivery, and commissioning for multiple rapid transit projects.

Speakers:

  • Sabrina Pasian, Chief Safety Officer – OC Transpo
    Sabrina Pasian is the Chief Safety Officer at OC Transpo. In this role, she oversees four distinct branches within her service area, including, the Safety Standards, Investigations and Reporting branch, the Training & Development branch, the Special Constable Unit and the Regulatory Compliance, Quality Control & Assurance branch.
  • Betty Hasserjian, Chief Safety Officer – Toronto Transit Commission
    Betty is the Chief Safety Officer for the Toronto Transit Commission where she leads a team responsible for developing, implementing and overseeing safety and environmental standards and programs to protect employees, customers and the public. Her portfolio spans safety strategy and policy, occupational hygiene and environmental protection, safety operations, emergency management and fire safety, business continuity, safety assurance, and capital project safety. 
  • Carla Stout, General Manager, Niagara Transit Commission
    Carla Stout is educated in Public Administration and has dedicated the last 26 years to local government management and public service in transit. She has successfully managed and innovated both small contracted and larger conventional systems in progressively senior roles within the Niagara region. Recently in 2022, Carla was appointed as the inaugural General Manager for the newly amalgamated Niagara Transit Commission. She was elected in 2021 to the Board of Directors for the Ontario Public Transit Association.

 

Room: Markham Ballroom

The road to safer transit requires a shared commitment to education, awareness, collaboration and data-informed action. When people, ideas and partnerships come together, safety becomes more than a priority. It becomes part of the culture. This session will bring together perspectives from OC Transpo, York Region Transit and London Transit to explore common safety and behavioural challenges, showcase successful initiatives, and highlight how cross-agency collaboration can create safer and more resilient transit systems for customers, staff and their communities.

Moderator:

  • Brigitte Pawliw-Fry, Partnerships (Northeast), Transit
    As a member of Transit’s Northeast Partnership team, Brigitte builds and strengthens relationships with agencies, DOTs, and college campuses in the Northeast, including in Ontario and Atlantic Canada. Collaborating directly with these transit agencies, Brigitte helps shape how a platform – used by 8 million transit riders across North America each month – improves transit accessibility for all: from daily commuters to those navigating disruptions or individuals with specific access needs. With a background rooted in nonprofits and civil society research, Brigitte holds a Bachelor’s degree from Stanford University in History and English, where she co-founded the first-ever Disability Studies conference at Stanford. Her work has been featured in the Stanford Social Innovation Review, The Guardian, The Toronto Star, and other outlets.

Speakers:

  • Tricia Wretham, Manager (A), Communications, Community Engagement and Marketing – York Region Transit
    Tricia Wretham is a strategic communications leader with over 15 years of experience advancing collaborative, community-focused initiatives. As Manager, Communications, Community Engagement and Marketing with The Regional Municipality of York, she leads a multidisciplinary team supporting transportation, transit and environmental priorities that build awareness, foster meaningful engagement and inspire public confidence. An award-winning communicator and certified public participation practitioner, Tricia is known for building partnerships, driving innovation and delivering initiatives that support safe, informed and connected communities.
  • Melanie Clarke, Senior Project Manager, Transit Marketing – OC Transpo
    Melanie Clarke has over 10 years of experience in global marketing, content operations, and digital customer experience. Before joining OC Transpo in 2025, she led international marketing strategy and global content operations in the hyper-growth technology sector, specializing in content localization, large-scale translation programs, and digital journey optimization. She is passionate about creating accessible, engaging, and customer-centered communications that connect with diverse and global audiences.
  • Kelly Paleczny, General Manager – London Transit Commission 
    Kelly Paleczny has been with the London Transit Commission for the past 29 years, and has held the role of General Manager since 2015.  In addition to her role at LTC, Kelly is Chair of the Ontario Public Transit Association, Past Chair of the board of directors of the Canadian Urban Transit Association, and Chair of the AODA Transportation Standards Development Committee.
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Room: Foyer

Room: Markham Ballroom

The session will focus on the relationship between transportation planning, engineering, and road safety and how OTC and OPTA can work together to tackle common issues, challenges, and opportunities.

Moderator:

  • Karen Lusk, Supervisor Safety and Training, Transportation Operations – York Region Transit
    Karen Lusk is the Supervisor, Safety & Training at York Region Transit. She joined York Region in December 2010 and has over three decades of experience in Safety & Training, having started her career in 1995. Throughout her career, Karen has focused on promoting safety culture, employee development, and continuous improvement within transit operations. She is also actively involved in testing and embracing emerging technologies that enhance safety for transit riders, operators, and all road users.

Speakers:

  • Geoff Wilkinson, Executive Director – Ontario Traffic Council
    Geoff Wilkinson is the Executive Director of the Ontario Traffic Council, a leading voice in multimodal transportation, mobility, and road safety across Ontario. He serves as Co-Chair of the Ontario Vision Zero Alliance and recently retired from his role as a Director of the Durham Kids’ Safety Village. Geoff has led numerous special projects for the OTC, including the revision of Ontario Traffic Manual Book 18 for the Ministry of Transportation, in collaboration with WSP; the development of the Protected Intersection Guide, also with WSP; and the Vision Zero Guide, with CIMA+.
  • Nelson Costa, Manager of Corridors and Safety, York Region Transit
    Nelson Costa is the Manager of Traffic Safety and Signal Operations with York Region, bringing over 25 years of experience in traffic operations, transportation planning, road safety, and traffic signal management. He leads initiatives that enhance roadway safety, improve traffic flow, and support efficient transportation networks across the region.
  • Doug Spooner, Director of Transit Services, Grand River Transit
    Doug joined the Region of Waterloo in 2023 as Director of Transit Services, following stops at Metrolinx, the Invictus 2017 Games, the Toronto 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Games, and his own consulting firm. Doug’s experience spans a variety of transportation fields including system/space design and operation, network design, procurement, policy development and stakeholder integration. From 2024-2026, Doug became the Acting Commissioner for Transportation Services and recently returned to his role as the Director of Transit Services. His role sees him working alongside a fantastic team to deliver a variety of regional services including transit, multi-modal travel, and roads.
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Room: Markham Ballroom

Every day, transit employees make countless adjustments that keep passengers, pedestrians, and road users safe in a complex and constantly changing environment. This interactive session explores the principles of Safety 2.0, moving beyond traditional approaches that focus on error and blame to understand how frontline employees create safety through adaptation, decision-making, and resilience. Participants will discover strategies for building a learning culture that strengthens trust, reporting, and operational excellence across their organizations.

Moderator:

  • Doug Spooner, Director of Transit Services, Grand River Transit
    Doug joined the Region of Waterloo in 2023 as Director of Transit Services, following stops at Metrolinx, the Invictus 2017 Games, the Toronto 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Games, and his own consulting firm. Doug’s experience spans a variety of transportation fields including system/space design and operation, network design, procurement, policy development and stakeholder integration. From 2024-2026, Doug became the Acting Commissioner for Transportation Services and recently returned to his role as the Director of Transit Services. His role sees him working alongside a fantastic team to deliver a variety of regional services including transit, multi-modal travel, and roads.

Speakers:

  • Sabrina Pasian, Chief Safety Officer – OC Transpo
    Sabrina Pasian is the Chief Safety Officer at OC Transpo. In this role, she oversees four distinct branches within her service area, including, the Safety Standards, Investigations and Reporting branch, the Training & Development branch, the Special Constable Unit and the Regulatory Compliance, Quality Control & Assurance branch. Sabrina has been with the City of Ottawa for over 20 years. She joined OC Transpo in 2016 as a Specialist in Transit Operations before establishing a new branch in 2020, the Regulatory Compliance, Quality Control & Assurance team.
  • Laurie Krahl, Director, Bus Safety – Metrolinx
    Laurie Krahl is the Director, Bus Safety at Metrolinx. In this role, she promotes a culture of safety by leading the development, implementation and evaluation of best-practice safety programs, processes, and systems to optimize all key dimensions of safety management and performance. Her scope includes operational and maintenance safety assurance.

 

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Shuttle buses will depart from the Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites at 1:30pm.

Location: Dave & Buster’s Vaughan (120 Interchange Wy, Vaughan, ON)

Agenda

Welcome Remarks – Executive Committee (2:00 – 2:10pm)

Chair:

  • Drew Poeta, Manager, Transit – North Bay Transit

Vice Chair:

  • Andrew Portwine, Manager, Transit Planning & Projects, Kingston Transit
  • Brenden Ursel, Transit Planning Coordinator, Brampton Transit
  • Jason Keillor, Vice President, Transit Operations, Transdev
Topic: Multi Agency Service Coordination – Challenges and Successes (2:10 – 2:30pm)

With customer convenience in mind, Transit agencies across Ontario have been regularly coordinating services, schedules, and operations to create an integrated and expanded transit network. A history of legacy coordination remains through informal partnership, while others have evolved into integrated service arrangements. Join us at OPTA’s Planning & Scheduling Fall Meetup for a roundtable discussion on transit service coordination. Share your organization’s experience, discuss challenges and lessons learned, and explore successful coordination practices that can help improve connectivity and customer experience across the province.

Moderator/Vice Chair:

  • Brenden Ursel, Transit Planning Coordinator, Brampton Transit

Speaker:

  • Bernard Au, Manager, Rail Service Design (Operations) – Metrolinx
Topic: Call for Studio Projects – TMU (2:30 – 2:35pm)

OPTA Member Victor Copetti of Kingston Transit will be running an undergraduate studio project for TMU’s School of Urban and Regional Planning in both the fall 2026 and winter 2027 semesters. He is looking to bring project ideas and potential clients to the class, providing students with the opportunity to work on real-world projects. The only requirements for project suggestions are:

  1. It must be transit, transportation, or environmental related (given that those are Victor’s areas of expertise, though it can bleed into other planning disciplines); and,
  2. It must be the type of project you would expect a planner or planning team to have the necessary skillset to complete.

This is a great opportunity to bring forward innovative project ideas and connect with emerging talent through the studio.

Moderator/Chair:

  • Drew Poeta, Manager, Transit, North Bay Transit

Speaker:

  • Victor Copetti, Transit Service Project Manager, City of Kingston
Topic: Defining Practical KPI’s for All Stages of Transit Operations Planning and Scheduling (2:35 – 3:35pm)

Transit agencies routinely measure efficiency through familiar indicators such as paid hours, pay-to-platform ratios, fleet requirements and operator headcount. But those measures tell only part of the story. A schedule can be efficient on paper while creating difficult working conditions, poor reliability, or operational challenges once it reaches the street.

This interactive session will explore practical KPIs that help agencies evaluate scheduling decisions across multiple dimensions: operating cost and efficiency, operational robustness, and operator quality of life. Using real examples from transit agencies, we will examine measures such as split-shift characteristics, spread, continuous working time, meaningful breaks, workweek patterns, days off, start-time consistency, inter-day rest, roster equity and seniority impacts—not simply as averages, but as distributions that reveal who receives the benefits and burdens of a schedule.

The objective is to move beyond simply measuring what is easy to count and toward measuring what agencies actually want to improve. Once those outcomes can be quantified, scheduling alternatives can be simulated, compared and ultimately optimized.

Let’s debate on how to measure, because what can be measured, can be optimized.

Moderator/Vice Chair:

  • Andrew Portwine, Manager, Transit Planning & Projects, Kingston Transit

Speaker:

  • Michel Courval, Partner, Senior Project Director – CSCHED
    Michel Courval is the founder and Principal of CSched, a consulting firm specializing in transit operations planning and scheduling optimization. A former project manager at GIRO, the developer of HASTUS, Michel has over 30 years of experience helping transit agencies improve service reliability, operational efficiency, and workforce sustainability through data-driven scheduling practices. An internationally recognized trainer and advisor, he has worked with transit organizations worldwide, providing expertise in HASTUS, service planning, scheduling best practices, operational audits, and labor rule analysis.
Networking Coffee Break (3:35 pm – 3:50 pm)
From Operations to Insights: How Reporting Drives Better Planning Decisions (3:50 – 4:10pm)

In this session, we’ll explore how transit agencies can use operational data to inform strategic planning. We’ll share real-world examples of how better insights drive smarter planning decisions.

Moderator/Chair:

  • Drew Poeta, Manager, Transit, North Bay Transit

Speaker:

  • Jon MacMull, Senior Account-Based Marketing Manager, Swiftly
    Jon MacMull is Senior Account-Based Marketing Manager at Swiftly, working with transit agencies across North America on real-time passenger information and service reliability. He was previously Director of Communications and Public Affairs at CUTA, leading national advocacy and strategic communications for Canada’s public transit sector.
Planning for Technology – How Can We Become More Nimble With Advancements In Technology And AI (4:10 – 4:40pm)

Moderator/Vice Chair:

  • Andrew Portwine, Manager, Transit Planning & Projects, Kingston Transit

Speaker:

  • Tamas Hertel, Manager, Service Planning – York Region Transit
    Tamas Hertel is the Manager of Service Planning at York Region Transit (YRT). YRT is one of Ontario’s largest transit systems, carrying a record 23.7 million passengers in 2024 on a fleet of more than 500 vehicles. Tamas manages short and long-term planning of transit services, including the analysis of financial, capital, and operational performance of individual routes and services, fare policy/structure and the overall system performance of YRT. Prior to his role at YRT, Tamas was Program Manager of Traffic Safety at the Regional Municipality of York and also has experience in transportation master planning, capital planning and public and stakeholder engagement.
How To Squeeze Water Out of Rocks – Finding Resources to Grow Services in a Time of Fiscal Constraints (4:40 – 5:10pm)

Moderator/Vice Chair: Brenden Ursel, Transit Planning Coordinator, Brampton Transit

Speakers:

  • Kirsten Watson, VP Government Relation & Canada Transit Market Sector Lead, AECOM
  • Kelly Paleczny, General Manager – London Transit Commission
    Kelly Paleczny has been with the London Transit Commission for the past 29 years, and has held the role of General Manager since 2015.  In addition to her role at LTC, Kelly is Chair of the Ontario Public Transit Association, Past Chair of the board of directors of the Canadian Urban Transit Association, and Chair of the AODA Transportation Standards Development Committee.

Shuttle buses will depart from the Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites at 5:30pm.

  • The evening will feature the Sponsors’ Networking Reception and Dinner at Dave and Buster’s (120 Interchange Wy, Vaughan, ON), providing members and partners with an opportunity to connect in a relaxed setting.

October 2, 2026 | Committee Meetings and Policy Forum

Room: Markham Ballroom

Cynthia Davis, President and CEO of Lakeridge Health, will explore the important connection between transit, health care and community wellbeing. Drawing on examples from Durham Region, she will discuss how health systems and transit agencies can work differently together to improve access to essential services, advance health equity and create healthier, more connected communities. Her keynote will highlight the role of cross-sector partnerships in addressing transportation barriers and building more integrated and sustainable systems for the future.

Moderator:

  • Bill Holmes, General Manager, Transit, Durham Region Transit

Keynote Speaker:

  • Cynthia Davis, CEO of Lakeridge Health
    Cynthia Davis is a widely respected leader in Canadian health care who began her career as a registered nurse, bringing more than 30 years of experience and a strong commitment to patient-centred care. Since joining Lakeridge Health in 2021, she has led the organization through the COVID-19 pandemic while advancing major initiatives, including a new long-term care home, a leading-edge health and wellness centre, and a first-of-its-kind family medicine training program with Queen’s University. Known for her empathy, decisiveness, and strategic vision, she continues to champion a more integrated and accessible health-care system for communities across Durham Region and beyond.

 

Room: Markham Ballroom

Drug use on public transit is one of the most complex challenges facing transit agencies today. It affects the safety and well-being of frontline employees, the experience and perception of riders, and the ability of agencies to operate safe and welcoming systems. At the OPTA Meet-Up on Friday October 2nd, David Cooper of Leading Mobility will share key findings from the Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) Synthesis 179: Impacts and Responses to Drug Use on Public Transit, drawing on experiences in Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, Philadelphia and Portland. He will explore what agencies are doing, what we have learned, and how this work can set the table for a new Canadian study.

But this issue is about more than policies, programs and statistics. David will be joined by Sheila Haennicke, whose son passed away from a fentanyl overdose while riding Chicago’s CTA Blue Line. Sheila turned that loss into action, advocating for greater access to naloxone on public transit and helping bring a human perspective to a challenge transit employees and riders encounter every day. Together, David and Sheila will explore how transit agencies can respond with greater safety, compassion and coordination—and why Canada needs to advance this conversation now.

Moderator:

  • Brett Hartley, Director of Public Affairs, CUTA
    Brett Hartley is Director of Public Affairs at the Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA), where he leads the organization’s government relations and advocacy work with federal, provincial, and municipal governments across Canada. With more than a decade of experience in politics, public affairs, and government relations, Brett has worked on Parliament Hill and in the private sector, bringing a strong understanding of government and public policy to the issues shaping Canada’s public transit sector. Brett works closely with transit leaders, policymakers, and industry partners to advance the sector’s priorities and support stronger public transit outcomes across Canada. He holds a B.A. from McGill University, where he graduated with First-Class Honours in Political Science and Economics.

Speaker:

  • David Cooper, Principal of Leading Mobility
    Since 2005, David Cooper has contributed to numerous transformative transportation initiatives across Canada. David is the founder and principal of Leading Mobility, a transportation planning firm that offers strategic and planning support for public transit, infrastructure delivery, stakeholder support, and government relations projects and initiatives. David’s distinctive experience as the only urban planner in Canada who has practiced in the public sector in Vancouver, Calgary and Toronto provide clients unique perspectives on how to successfully shepherd politically sensitive projects through large municipal and regional governments. Through his work in these three major cities, David has been integral in all stages of planning, procurement, delivery, and commissioning for multiple rapid transit projects.

  • Sheila Haennicke, MA, LSW
    Sheila is a skilled communications leader and social justice advocate with a background in social work. She earned both a bachelor’s degree in sociology and master’s degree in social service administration at the University of Chicago. Sheila has spoken frequently in public settings, most recently on harm reduction topics. She has led self-help groups and believes deeply in the healing power of relationships.
    The loss of Sheila’s 29-year-old son, David, to an opioid overdose on a Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) train in 2021 fuels her passion for harm reduction on public transit. As a co-chair of the “Naloxone on the CTA” work group for Chicago’s West Side Heroin/Opioid Task Force (WSHOTF), Sheila collaborates with advocates and bureaucrats to bring Naloxone-only dispensers to transit stops across the CTA, and she does monthly outreach to train riders how to use the dispensers and the free Naloxone. Sheila is a Narcan trainer for her hometown of Oak Park, Illinois, a community that celebrates compassionate action to improve public health.

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheila-haennicke-677130b/

 

Room: Markham Ballroom

Ontario’s transit systems are shaped by decisions made well beyond any single agency. Ontario’s transit systems are shaped by decisions made well beyond any single agency. This panel takes a province-wide view of the policy, funding and industrial forces shaping transit’s future. Dershil Shah of AMO speaks to the municipal finance and infrastructure context and upcoming research on the state of infrastructure and transit assets across Ontario. Kim Earls of the Rural Ontario Institute explores the connection between economic development and rural mobility. Josipa Petrunic of CUTRIC brings a forward-looking policy perspective on federal and provincial investment in transit depots built with Canadian steel, aluminium and lumber, positioning transit infrastructure as part of Canada’s response to current trade pressures. OPTA Chair Kelly Paleczny moderates.

Moderator: Kelly Paleczny, General Manager, London Transit Commission

  • Kelly Paleczny has been with the London Transit Commission for the past 29 years, and has held the role of General Manager since 2015. In addition to her role at LTC, Kelly is Chair of the Ontario Public Transit Association, Past Chair of the board of directors of the Canadian Urban Transit Association, and Chair of the AODA Transportation Standards Development Committee.

Speakers:

  • Dershil Shah, Senior Policy Advisor, AMO
    Dershil Shah is a Senior Advisor at the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), where he leads policy work on infrastructure, transportation, and the environment to inform provincial policy and advocate for the issues that matter most to Ontario’s local communities. Before joining AMO, Dershil spent a decade at UK’s HM Treasury department, most recently leading development of the government’s flagship 10 Year Infrastructure Strategy and sponsoring the National Infrastructure Commission. His earlier Treasury roles spanned COVID-19 emergency spending oversight, national tax and social insurance policy, and the management and sale of over £30 billion in government financial assets.
  • Kim Earls, Executive Director, Rural Ontario Institute
    Kimberly Earls is the Executive Director at the Rural Ontario Institute. With more than 15 years of experience in economic development, Kimberly has led large-scale initiatives focused on the infrastructure and partnerships that support community competitiveness and long-term success. Throughout her career, Kimberly has been actively engaged in the local business community and has served as an industry stakeholder on numerous federal, provincial, and municipal advisory boards. In addition to her executive leadership, Kimberly teaches part-time at Fanshawe College and holds a Master of Public Administration from Western University. Prior to her work in the public sector, Kimberly was an owner and partner in a masonry business with her husband. A community builder and advocacy specialist, Kimberly is deeply passionate about the work she does.
  • Josipa Petrunic, Chief Executive Officer, CUTRIC
    As the President & CEO of CUTRIC, Dr. Josipa Petrunic is leading the formulation of national transportation and energy systems analyses, including battery electric vehicles (BEV), hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) and zero-emissions transit technologies. As one of Canada’s leading experts in Zero-Emissions Bus (ZEB) innovation deployment projects, Dr. Petrunic has designed, developed and launched the Pan-Canadian Electric Bus Demonstration & Integration Trial (Phases I-II), the Pan-Canadian Hydrogen Fuel Cell Demonstration & Integration Trial (Phase I) and the Canadian National Smart Vehicle Demonstration & Integration Trial (Phase I). Under the leadership of Dr. Petrunic, CUTRIC has expanded from five founding members to more than 130 transit, utility, industry, and academic institutional members across North America with projects valued at over $50 million.

 

Room: Markham Ballroom

Who owns your fares and revenue strategy? If you’re not so sure anymore, you’re not alone. Traditionally stable sources of transit revenue and ridership are increasingly volatile post-pandemic. Transit agencies need to diversify ridership and revenue to maintain and invest in service, while fielding growing calls for free transit. This panel brings three agency perspectives to one central question: how can fare policy evolve to be both financially sustainable and equitable? Grand River Transit draws on its U-Pass and TravelWise programs to explore partnership passes for schools, campuses and workplaces. Metrolinx speaks to One Fare and fare integration across agency boundaries. York Region Transit shares how data-empowered storytelling turns data into actionable insights, grounded in its recent move from monthly passes to fare capping for all riders. And Pattison Outdoor Advertising will speak to the future of advertising revenue for transit. Together, the panel will examine the pressures facing agencies today, along with new ideas for building a multi-year strategy that helps riders and decision-makers see the value of fair fares and other revenue streams. We’ll close with a roundtable to gauge member interest in a dedicated OPTA Fares and Revenue Committee or Working Group, a space to share strategies, tools and program evaluations that strengthen the fiscal resiliency of members.

Moderator:

  • Christopher Norris, General Manager, Maintenance, Durham Region Transit
    Christopher Norris, P.Eng. is a Canadian public transit executive and advocate for sustainable municipal infrastructure. He serves as Deputy General Manager, Maintenance at Durham Region Transit (DRT) and is a member of the Board of Directors of the Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA). With extensive experience in transit operations, engineering, and public sector leadership, Norris has played a key role in advancing innovative and customer-focused transportation solutions. During his career at DRT, he has contributed to the transformation of conventional transit services through the implementation of flexible, data-driven, and on-demand service delivery models that improve mobility while enhancing operational efficiency. In his current role, Christopher leads fleet maintenance and asset management programs, overseeing critical modernization initiatives, including the deployment and ongoing management of DRT’s zero-emission battery-electric bus fleet. His work focuses on ensuring service reliability, advancing environmental sustainability objectives, and preparing transit systems for emerging technologies.

Speakers:

  • Kevan Marshall, Manager, Transit Development – Grand River Transit (Region of Waterloo)
    Kevan Marshall is the Manager of Transit Development at the Region of Waterloo. He is part of the Transit Services department, responsible for the Region’s bus and light rail transit system (Grand River Transit). Kevan has worked on integrated sustainable transportation planning, policy development, infrastructure, and program portfolios in various roles at the Region of Waterloo since 2012 – including the Grand River Transit Business Plan, Universal Transit Pass (U-Pass) programs, and workplace transit pass program, TravelWise. Kevan received the Canadian Urban Transit Association’s Young Leaders Award in 2023.
  • Kanivanan Chinniah, Vice President, Planning at Metrolinx
    Since March 2026, Kanivanan oversees the Planning department at Metrolinx, which performs long-range forecasting, business cases to support transit project assessments and policy and program implementation for fare and service integration. He previously held the role of Vice President, Stakeholder Relations responsible for public affairs and municipal government relations across the 110 upper-, lower- and single-tier municipalities in the GO Transit service area, and also held the role of Vice President, Rapid Transit Head Sponsor responsible for managing requirements and benefits across four light rail projects, bus rapid transit and GO Bus infrastructure. Before joining Metrolinx, Kanivanan served as a member of the political staff in the Government of Ontario, including as Director of Policy to the Minister of Transportation and Deputy Director of Policy to the President of the Treasury Board. Kanivanan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Queen’s University in Kingston.   
  • Erin Straughan, Transportation Policy & Accessible Service Specialist, YRT
    Erin Straughan is a Transportation Policy and Accessible Services Specialist with York Region Transit with more than 23 years of experience in municipal transit. She leads initiatives related to fare policy, accessibility, and customer-focused programs, helping shape policies that improve mobility and access for residents across York Region.
  • Mary Ventresca, Chief Marketing Officer, Pattison
    Mary is Chief Marketing Officer at PATTISON Outdoor Advertising, where she leads marketing strategy across Canada’s largest Out-of-Home media companies. With more than two decades in the industry, she brings deep experience in the media environments of transit, airport, classic and digital OOH with a particular focus on audience intelligence, measurement and omnichannel strategy.
Roundtable Discussion:
  • Proposal of an OPTA Fares and Revenue Committee/Working Group

 

Room: Butternut/Holly

Introduction by Chair Omar Rasheed (9:30 am – 9:45 am)
  • Commitment to holding meetings monthly
  • Calling for Business Member and Transit Member Vice Chair Nominations

Maintenance Committee

Chair:

  • Omar Rasheed, Manager, Equipment Training, Transit, MiWay

Vice Chairs:

  • Maurice Rozon, Maintenance Supervisor, Cornwall Transit
  • Chad Sadowy, Regional Sales Manager – Canada, New Flyer Industries
  • Vice Chairs (Transit Member): VACANT
Topic: OPTA 310T Apprentice Working Group Report (9:45 am – 10:15 am)

To have an apprentice, you need an apprenticeship program. That was the conclusion of the 310T Apprenticeship Working Group’s inaugural meeting on August 26 and it reframes a problem the sector has been struggling to address. The Working Group’s conclusion cuts across all thirteen working theories of the challenges faced by apprentices: no single fix works on its own.  The Working Group reports to the Maintenance Committee, where the STO Deputy Registrar and COO Michael Barnett joins the 310T apprenticeship discussion. Whether your system runs 90 apprentices or one, this framework is being built for you — be in the room.

Speaker:

  • Michael Barnett, Deputy Registrar and Chief Operating Officer – Skilled Trades Ontario
  • Danielle Palombi, Director, Apprenticeship Training, Curriculum, Standards and Examination
  • Murray Hall, Regional Manager, Apprenticeship Services
Topic: What to Expect When the Bill Arrives – Impacts of Tariffs on Transit Supply Chains (10:15 am – 10:45 am)

Moderator:

  • Parvathy Pillai, Director, Research and Industry Intelligence, CUTA

Speaker:

  • Chad Sadowy, Regional Sales Manager – Canada, New Flyer
    Chad Sadowy is the living example of a successful rise-through-the-ranks, lifelong learning, second generation employee. His three-decade career in the bus and motorcoach field began at Motor Coach Industries Ltd. (“MCI”) on the production lines, before he advanced through roles including Quality Assurance, Product Support Specialist, Business Excellence Manager (obtaining his Six Sigma Black Belt), Technical Solutions Manager, and Vice President of Sales for Western Canada. With his move to the position of Regional Sales Manager of Canada with New Flyer and MCI, Chad has continued to expand his skillset through the new mobility era, becoming an exceptionally astute product expert. Chad is also a highly active advocate and ally for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in transportation. In addition to serving transit agencies across Canada, Chad is actively involved in several organizations and committees.

  • Michael Coote, Regional Sales Manager, Nova Bus
    Michael is an accomplished, results driven sales professional with thirty-two years of experience in commercial vehicles. He is a customer focused natural communicator who is confident and comfortable establishing, building and sustaining relationships across all levels of an organization. Michael is a resourceful, respected leader experienced in teambuilding and creating and maintaining a motivated team environment.

  • Christos Kritsidimas, Vice President Legal, Public Affairs and External Communications, Nova Bus
    As the Vice President of Legal Public Affairs and External Communications at Nova Bus, I leverage my extensive legal and government affairs background to lead strategic communications and public affairs initiatives. With over 20 years of experience in the field, I have a proven track record of building and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, media, and community leaders. I am also a member of the board of directors at Caisse Desjardins de Chomedey, contributing to the organization’s governance and decision-making processes. My education includes a Bachelor of Laws from the Bar of Quebec, a Bachelor’s degree in Law from Université de Sherbrooke, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Government from McGill University. I am passionate about using my skills and knowledge to drive positive change and promote social responsibility.
Topic: Hydrogen Site Assessment – MiWay (10:45 am – 11:15 am)

Speakers:

  • Omar Rasheed, Manager, Equipment Training, Transit, MiWay
    Omar Rasheed is a transit maintenance and technical training professional with more than 20 years of experience in fleet maintenance, safety, workforce development, and emerging vehicle technologies.
    A licensed 310T Truck and Coach Technician, Omar has progressed from frontline maintenance into technical training and leadership. Currently with MiWay, he leads Technical Training & Development initiatives focused on employee onboarding, technical and compliance training, competency development, and workforce readiness.
    A key focus of Omar’s current role is supporting MiWay’s hydrogen readiness as the organization prepares for the introduction of its first hydrogen fuel cell bus. His work includes developing employee training and competency requirements, supporting maintenance and safety readiness, and collaborating with OEMs, emergency services, and industry partners to prepare employees and facilities for this emerging technology.
    Omar currently serves as Chair of the Ontario Public Transit Association (OPTA) Maintenance Committee and participates in Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) initiatives and industry working groups. Through these roles, he collaborates with transit agencies, OEMs, colleges, and industry partners to advance technical training, safety, apprenticeship development, workforce readiness, and emerging technologies.
  • Dang Le, Project Leader, ZEB, MiWay
    Dang has been with MiWay for about a year and a half and previously with New Flyer for 14 years. He supports the MiWay transition to Zero Emissions roll out starting with the Hydrogen Fuel cell bus from New Flyer.
Roundtable Discussion (11:15 am – 12:00pm)
  • Discussion about Fuel Benchmarking Survey by Brent Fowler, Kingston Transit
  • Input for ZEB User Conference at OTE 2027
  • Next Steps with Transport Canada – Camera Monitoring Systems
  • Vehicle Data and Transit Operations: Current State of Affairs & Road Maps for the Future
    • Speaker: Sam Farhangi, Manager, Vehicle Maintenance, TTC

 

Room: Maple Room

Welcome Remarks – Executive Committee (9:15 am – 9:25 am)

Calling for two Transit Member Vice Chair nominations

Chair:

  • Melanie Clarke, Senior Project Manager, Transit Marketing – OC Transpo

Vice Chairs:

  • Brigitte Pawliw-Fry, Partnerships (Northeast), Transit App
Topic: Navigating the awkward middle – Growing the GRT brand through change (9:25 am – 9:55 am)

As GRT expands, its brand is maturing alongside a rapidly changing, multi-modal transit network. This session explores how GRT has evolved its communications, rider information and customer experience approach through key milestones such as the introduction of ION light rail, related bus network changes, and the ongoing alignment of digital and physical touchpoints.

The presentation will share practical lessons for transit agencies managing growth: maintaining a clear, consistent brand across new services and communication channels; designing accessible information for both frequent and occasional riders; and using customer feedback, complaints and operational data to inform communications planning.

Speakers:

  • Pat Morabito, Manager – Communications and Community Engagement, Transportation Services – Grand River Transit (GRT)
    Pat Morabito leads the marketing, communications and customer experience strategy at Grand River Transit in the Region of Waterloo. He’s responsible for developing and executing strategies that enhance the transit agency’s brand and reputation, increase ridership and improve the overall customer experience. Before joining GRT, he spent over 10 years working in telecommunications where he developed an understanding of customer needs and preferences and worked to improve customer processes and communications.
  • Melissa Murray, Supervisor of Marketing and Communications – GRT
    Melissa Murray is the Assistant Manager of Marketing, Communications and Community Engagement for Grand River Transit (GRT). Over the past four years, she has helped raise the profile of the GRT brand by streamlining and eliminating sub-brands, making transit simpler to understand and easier to use for everyone. Prior to joining GRT, Melissa worked at OC Transpo for three years, supporting communications during the launch of O‑Train Line 1. She began her career as a reporter with local news organizations, bringing strong writing skills, clear and credible communication, and a consistent focus on building better community relationships to every project she leads.
  • Renee Fonte, Assistant Manager, Customer Experience – GRT
    Renee Fonte is the Assistant Manager of Transit Customer Experience for the Region of Waterloo, where she helps shape how customers experience public transit. Her focus includes service communications, customer and operator engagement, and improving the overall transit experience, with a strong commitment to accessibility and responsive service. Renee also leads customer and staff feedback programs and brings a practical, people-focused perspective to projects and planning. She helps make sure new technology and service improvements work well for both transit operations and the people who rely on transit every day.
Topic: Building Confidence and Independence: The Evolution of Wheel-Trans Travel Training (9:55 am – 10:10 am)

Wheel-Trans continues to innovate and enhance its travel training program, empowering customers to navigate public transit safely, confidently, and independently. This presentation will highlight the program’s progress to date, showcase key achievements, and outline strategic goals for 2026/2027. The second part of the presentation will focus on the soft skills and customer-focused approaches employed by the Travel Training team to deliver effective training sessions that foster customer confidence, encourage independent travel, and contribute to increased trip diversion from specialized transit services to the conventional transit network.

Speaker:

  • Arlen Orellana, Travel Specialist, Wheel-Trans – Toronto Transit Commission
    Wheel-Trans continues to innovate and enhance its travel training program, empowering customers to navigate public transit safely, confidently, and independently. This presentation will highlight the program’s progress to date, showcase key achievements, and outline strategic goals for 2026/2027. The second part of the presentation will focus on communications and customer-focused approaches to promote the Travel Training Program and help foster customer confidence, encourage independent travel, and contribute to increased trip diversion from specialized transit services to the conventional transit network.

  • Heather Brown, Director, External Communications, Toronto Transit Commission
    Heather Brown is Director, External Communications at the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), where she leads media relations, customer communications, and communications for major capital projects. With more than 25 years of experience in transit, healthcare, government, and public affairs, she has led communications for major modernization initiatives, service changes, fare transformation programs, and infrastructure projects. Heather specializes in strategic communications, public engagement, and issues management, and is passionate about building trust through clear, transparent communication.

Topic: Public Art, Public Transit: The Story Behind Barrie’s Vision for Civic Pride at Bus Stops (10:10 am – 10:40 am)

The “Art on Transit” program is a collaborative public art initiative run by the Barrie Public Art Committee in partnership with Barrie Transit. The project brings unique digital artworks to high-profile bus shelters to inject vibrancy into the community and build civic pride.

Program Details:

  • The Inspiration: The featured artworks are completely inspired by an original poem titled “unexpected destinations” written by Barrie’s Poet Laureate, Tyneisha Thomas.
  • The Scale: The initiative features five unique digital artworks installed across 10 prominent bus shelters, ensuring representation in all ten city wards.
  • Local Talent: The program showcases digital designs explicitly selected from local and Ontario-based visual artists, including Brad MacMillan, Laura Kay Keeling, Marne Grahlman, Petra Victoria, and Reesha Morar.
  • Lifespan: The installations are printed on specialized vinyl wraps and are considered temporary, with an expected lifespan of up to five years.

Speaker:

  • Jason Zimmerman, Manager of Transit Operations, Barrie Transit
    As the Manager of Transit Operations for the City of Barrie, Jason Zimmerman has dedicated over 20 years to the transit industry, with almost 30 years working within Municipal Operations. Jason believes public transit must constantly adapt to serve its community effectively. Driven by a passion for continuous improvement, he is always looking for innovative ways to enhance services and raise the bar for the city’s overall level of service
Topic: Marketing Campaign Effectiveness – How to Avoid Marketing Fatigue (10:40 am – 11:00 am)

Speakers:

  • Melanie Clarke, Senior Project Manager, Transit Marketing – OC Transpo
    Melanie Clarke has over 10 years of experience in global marketing, content operations, and digital customer experience. Before joining OC Transpo in 2025, she led international marketing strategy and global content operations in the hyper-growth technology sector, specializing in content localization, large-scale translation programs, and digital journey optimization. She is passionate about creating accessible, engaging, and customer-centered communications that connect with diverse and global audiences.
  • Melissa Murray, Supervisor of Marketing and Communications – GRT
    Melissa Murray is the Assistant Manager of Marketing, Communications and Community Engagement for Grand River Transit (GRT). Over the past four years, she has helped raise the profile of the GRT brand by streamlining and eliminating sub-brands, making transit simpler to understand and easier to use for everyone. Prior to joining GRT, Melissa worked at OC Transpo for three years, supporting communications during the launch of O‑Train Line 1. She began her career as a reporter with local news organizations, bringing strong writing skills, clear and credible communication, and a consistent focus on building better community relationships to every project she leads.

 

October 1 – 2, 2026 | Road Safety Summit, Policy Forum, and Committee Meetings
Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites Conference Centre & Spa
8500 Warden Ave., Markham, ON L6G 1A5

Register for the Fall Member Meet-Up