MAG News

For many years, the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) has been committed to advancing transportation and supporting the careers of women. Now, that long history is being recognized. MAG was recently recognized by the Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS) Arizona Chapter as the 2023 Employer of the Year. WTS is an international organization dedicated to shaping the future of transportation for the public good through the global advancement of women. 

Supporting Women

The award is designed to honor employers for their support of the goals and purpose of WTS. 

“MAG has championed women in leadership roles, particularly in transportation,” says MAG Vice Chair Kate Gallego, mayor of Phoenix. “As the former chair of the Transportation Policy Committee, I have seen firsthand how that support has paid dividends, with women thriving and advancing in its two transportation divisions and throughout the agency,” she said. 

Leadership Roles

Gallego noted that transportation leadership roles range from the development of the transportation plan supporting an extension of Proposition 400, management of the regional freeway program, grants management, active transportation, and many others. 

“In addition, MAG’s executive leadership includes women ranging from its deputy executive director to five of its 10 division directors,” she said. “I am proud to see the diversity of our region reflected in MAG staff.” 

Subject Matter Experts

MAG received the award during the WTS Metro Phoenix 2023 Annual Scholarship and Awards Ceremony on April 1, 2023. Maricopa County nominated MAG for the award, citing MAG’s leadership, expert work on the Proposition 400 extension efforts, and mentorship of interns in its nomination. 

“Many of MAG’s female staff are nationally recognized subject matter experts, often invited as conference speakers or serving on panel discussions,” notes the nomination. “WTS’ mentorship program has very much been championed at MAG. While several MAG staff have served as mentors, MAG has ensured a healthy pipeline of mentees were welcomed into the program.” 

Professional Development

The nomination also called MAG’s support for professional development and continuing education “commendable,” noting MAG’s tuition reimbursement program and the agency’s interest in developing and advancing staff members’ careers and professions. 

“Support of professional development activities is also highly encouraged, including positions that require volunteer commitments and leadership roles at local, state, and national levels.” 

Executive Director Eric Anderson accepted the award on behalf of the organization. Anderson’s support of staff – especially during the pandemic, was also noted in the nomination.