Photo courtesy of Kathryn B. Thomson’s LinkedIn Page
Governor Wes Moore announced the appointment of Kathryn “Katie” B. Thomson as acting secretary of the Maryland Department of Transportation (“MDOT”). Thomson will officially assume the role on January 7, bringing decades of experience across federal service, private sector leadership, and large-scale infrastructure management to the department at a pivotal moment for Maryland’s transportation system.
In announcing the appointment, Governor Moore emphasized the importance of steady leadership as the state confronts major transportation and infrastructure demands. “Maryland is at a critical juncture,” Moore said, citing the need to advance modernization, resilience, and reliability while ensuring equitable access across communities. He expressed confidence that Thomson’s leadership and experience managing complex systems will support the administration’s goal of building a transportation network that “leaves no one behind.”
Lieutenant Governor Aruna K. Miller, who led the national search for the position, highlighted Thomson’s broad and diverse background as a distinguishing factor among a strong field of candidates. Miller underscored the administration’s focus on safety, economic growth, and connectivity. Miller also noted how Thomson’s experience at the federal level and in private sectors positions her well to help Marylanders access opportunity through a more effective transportation system.
Thomson brings more than thirty years of experience spanning transportation, aviation, energy, and sustainability law and policy. Most recently, she served as Deputy Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, acting as chief operating officer for a workforce of more than 45,000 employees and overseeing a $20 billion annual budget. Her career also includes senior leadership roles at the U.S. Department of Transportation, Amazon, and serving as a partner at more than one law firm. Reflecting on her appointment, Thomson said, “I am deeply grateful to Governor Moore and Lieutenant Governor Miller for this incredible opportunity to serve the great State of Maryland,” adding that she looks forward to working with the MDOT team to strengthen the state’s transportation network for the future.
