We are thrilled to welcome Michael Pal as the new Director of Public Transit at the NFTA. Michael brings with him an impressive background, having most recently served as the Chief Transportation Officer at Valley Metro in Phoenix, Arizona, and previously as the Deputy Chief Operating Officer at Metro Transit in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Michael has a deep connection to New York, where he spent nearly three decades with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). His career began as an MTA bus driver and progressed through various key leadership roles, including Superintendent, Bus Depot Manager, and Assistant General Manager of Road Operations. As a "transit kid," Michael's early experiences riding buses and subways ignited a lifelong passion for the vital role public transit plays in our communities.

With extensive experience in executive transportation management, he is committed to improving transit operations and customer experiences, enhancing safety, and fostering effective labor relations. Michael earned a Bachelor of Science degree, graduating Magna Cum Laude, from CUNY John Jay College in New York City. Additionally, he has served as the Division Chairperson for TWU Local 100 and is a member of the American Public Transportation Association, where he has participated on a peer review committee.

Michael is excited about joining the NFTA and relocating to Western New York, where he hopes to make a positive impact in the community. On a fun note, he is also a talented musician. Until a few years ago, he regularly played drums in his son's band, covering a wide variety of music genres.

Please join us in welcoming Michael to the NFTA-Metro team. His office is located on the 5th floor of the MTC.