Opening Ceremony featuring Keynote Speaker Speech Thomas

Get ready to kick-start the rail conference in Cleveland! Join industry peers for two and a half days packed with learning and networking. The opening session will feature APTA leadership and the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA), setting the stage for the exciting content ahead.

Plus, don't miss Grammy Award-winning Hip Hop artist Speech Thomas, a fearless leader who defied odds to achieve transformative success. From overcoming challenges to pioneering hits like "Tennessee" with Arrested Development, Speech shares his journey of Brave Leadership. Learn how to amplify your voice, defy expectations, and carve your own path to success.

Keynote Speaker:

• Speech Thomas, Grammy Award Winner, Entrepreneur and Philanthropist 

Keynote Introduction:

• Raymond Malleady, Executive Vice President, United Safety & Survivability Corporation

President's Welcome:

• Paul P. Skoutelas, President and CEO, American Public Transportation Association

Chair's Welcome:

• Michele Wong Krause, Chair, APTA; Past Chair, DART Board of Directors 2021-2023, Dallas Area Rapid Transit

Welcome:

• Justin Bibb, Mayor, City of Cleveland

Welcome:

• Chris Ronayne, Cuyahoga County Executive

Host:

• India Birdsong Terry, General Manager and Chief Executive Officer, Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA)

Host:

• Paul Koomar, Board President, Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority

Sponsor Remarks:

• Wynton Habersham, Vice President, Senior Project Director, HNTB Corporation