AECOM names new VP, digital innovation
Orla Pease has nearly 20 years of experience in the management, planning, engineering design, and analysis.


Orla Pease
AECOM named Orla Pease VP, digital innovation, for their Design and Consulting Services business in the Americas (DCSA). Pease, who previously served as associate VP for the Transportation business line for the Northeast at AECOM has nearly 20 years of experience in the management, planning, engineering design, and analysis of urban streets, intersections, traffic signals, safety, and transit related projects, and is the first person to fill the digital innovation leader role.
"Innovation is the heart of our business at AECOM, and in today's world, it's not whether a company will adopt digital solutions, but how quickly," said Steve Morriss, AECOM's president of its Design and Consulting Services group in the Americas. "It's no longer enough just to innovate, we must drive the digital future for our company, our clients and our communities."
Pease has worked on wireless static and dynamic vehicle charging as part of AECOM's Transportation Electrification team and is examining the potential use of Hyperloop as part of a team selected by the Pennsylvania Turnpike. She's also involved in numerous professional societies including Women's Transportation Seminar and the Institute of Transportation Engineers.
More Management

Bringing Austin’s First Light Rail System to Life
Austin Transit Partnership CEO Greg Canally discusses the city's nearly 10-mile light rail project, its collaborative approach to project delivery, the importance of community engagement, and the milestones ahead as construction approaches in 2027.
Read More →
ETA CEO John Maglio on Transit Technology, Innovation, and Building Agency Trust
ETA founder and CEO John Maglio explores the evolution of transit technology, the importance of reliable systems, and how stronger partnerships can help agencies improve operations and the passenger experience.
Read More →
Metra Draft Plan Outlines Costs, Service Improvements for Regional Rail
The Systemwide Network Plan identifies infrastructure needs and potential investments to expand all-day, bidirectional rail service across the Chicago region.
Read More →
New Orleans RTA Names Augustine III as New CEO
In this edition, we also spotlight recent personnel moves at HDR, PATH, STV, and more, highlighting the people taking on new roles across the transportation industry.
Read More →
How Transit Agencies Are Using Free Rides to Improve Voting Access
Transit agencies are using fare-free service, trip-planning tools, and targeted rides to improve voting access. See what other agencies can learn from these efforts.
Read More →
Caltrain’s Electrification Drives a New Era of Ridership Growth
The railroad’s shift to electric service has brought more frequent trains, stronger customer satisfaction, and increased ridership, earning it APTA’s Outstanding Public Transportation System award.
Read More →
Chicago, Charlotte Transit Agencies Expand Rider Support Programs
CTA launched crisis intervention teams as CATS prepares to deploy fare ambassadors, expanding customer assistance and security efforts across both systems.
Read More →
New York MTA Launches Historic $1.9B Signal, Track Modernization Project
Funded in part by congestion pricing revenue, the project will replace nearly century-old signals along the A and C lines in Brooklyn and Queens.
Read More →
Brian Dickson on Building Stronger, More Resilient Transportation Organizations
Bus Business Consultants Founder Brian Dickson discusses the leadership principles, operational discipline, and strategic planning that separate transportation companies positioned for long-term success from those stuck in survival mode.
Read More →
LA Metro Breaks Ground on Vermont BRT Project
The 12.4-mile corridor is projected to serve 66,200 daily riders, reduce travel times by up to 24%, and create the nation's busiest bus rapid transit corridor.
Read More →