This year’s NYPTA Conference, themed ‘People First: Elevating Public Transit Through Service, Safety, and Innovation,’ took place in Saratoga Springs and gathered transit leaders from across New York State to work collaboratively on enhancing public transportation. 

The NFTA team had a strong presence at the event. Members, including Rachel Maloney, engaged in sessions focused on operator recruitment, retention, and delivering exceptional customer service. Nicole Hill, Sam Gallivan, and Jeff Amplement facilitated dynamic discussions surrounding Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and the proposed Light Rail Extension, highlighting the agency's innovative approach to improving regional mobility. 

Additionally, Patricia Wiseman, Butch Goldsmith, Jesse Durbin, and Michael Haniszewski received recognition for completing the 2025 Public Transit Leadership Institute (PTLI), while Mike Hernandez and Steve Chase embarked on their leadership training journey as participants in the 2026 cohort. 

Throughout the conference, our entire Metro team seized valuable opportunities to connect with industry leaders, presenters, and decision-makers, gaining deeper insights into the current challenges, trends, and innovations facing the public transportation sector.