Gannett Fleming, an international planning, design and construction management firm, named Myrna Valdez director of national transit planning. Based in the firm's Los Angeles office, she is responsible for strategically shaping the firm's approach to transit planning and expanding the transit planning practice.

With more than 35 years of experience, Valdez will identify key initiatives, lead in developing marketing plans and pursuits, direct the hiring of specific capabilities, train and mentor staff, and ensure the consistency of practice performance throughout the firm, according to Gannett Fleming.

In support of Gannett Fleming's strategic action to grow its transit activities in the western U.S., Valdez will focus her efforts on supporting the practice in this region, which is led by Sam Mayman, PE, vice president and transit practice director.

In addition, as a result of her extensive experience working on projects sponsored by the Federal Transit Administration, Valdez will share best practices and provide timely information firm-wide on advances in planning and changes in FTA guidance.