San Diego MTS Names New COO, Rail

The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) named Brian Riley as its new COO, Rail.

Riley, who started his career at MTS as a train operator in 1999, and most recently served as superintendent, transportation, will now oversee 555 operations and maintenance employees, as well as be responsible for MTS rail operations, light rail vehicle maintenance, facilities maintenance, maintenance of wayside, safety, and state and federal regulatory compliance. He takes over for Wayne Terry who recently retired after working at the agency for 42 years.       

 “At MTS, we take a lot of pride in promoting from within, and Brian has been an integral part of the agency’s growth,” said Sharon Cooney, MTS CEO. “His long tenure at MTS has prepared him well for this new leadership role, and we are confident he is the right person to take the helm of our growing rail system.” 

Riley’s promotion comes after more than two decades of moving up the ranks at MTS. Roles he’s previously held include:

• 1999-2000 Train Operator
• 2000-2003 Controller Supervisor
• 2003-2010 Operation Control Center Supervisor
• 2010-2016 Assistant Superintendent, Transportation
• 2016-2022 Superintendent, Transportation
• 2022 – COO, Rail Division 

Riley has had extensive educational and leadership development within the transportation industry, including, ENO Center for Transportation’s Leadership program; professional certification in Management and Leadership from San Diego State University; professional certifications including Transit System Safety, Emergency Management, and more.

Riley also recently served as the chairman of the Mid-Coast Extension Rail Activation Committee, overseeing the expansion of the UC San Diego Blue Line 11-mile extension, which opened one year ago this month. He currently serves as the chairman for the American Public Transportation Association’s Operating Practices Working Group and the San Diego and Arizona Eastern Railway Co.