As a planner, I relish any opportunity to say that the future is bright.
The “next generation” of SEMCOG staff has given me plenty of opportunities to say this lately. Innovative data visualization in our maps, enhanced collaboration between SEMCOG communities, and new resources to promote public education on key issues are just a few areas where younger SEMCOG staff are stepping up to serve this region.
While we, at SEMCOG, know well the difference our people are making, word is getting out. This summer, Christina Ignasiak, a planner on our Transportation Planning and Programming team, and Rachael Barlock, an engineer with our Environment and Infrastructure team, both received statewide recognition.
Christina has been named Junior Planner of the Year by the Michigan Transportation Planning Association. This award recognized her work on “the City of Detroit’s Mobility and Master Transportation Plan studies, the City of Dearborn Master Plan, and the Downriver Community Rail project. She also led the development and successful completion of Southeast Michigan’s 2045 Regional Transportation Plan.”
In a relatively short period of time, Christina’s dedication, leadership, and enthusiasm have made her an indispensable part of the SEMCOG team.
Rachael Barlock
Rachael has received the 2019 Young Professional of the Year Award from the Michigan Section of the American Water Works Association. Rachael has demonstrated her facilitation and leadership skills working with water providers along the Huron-to-Erie Corridor in the update of the drinking water monitoring network.
She has also worked on the launch of the Southeast Michigan Infrastructure Asset Management Program, which will bolster this region’s voice in the pursuit of needed investment. Her blog series during Great Lakes and Fresh Water Week highlighted the importance of holistically managing our water resources.
Christina and Rachael are among the rising stars at SEMCOG. I can’t wait for you to see what they do next!
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