Brad Wieferich named MDOT Chief Operations Officer and Chief Engineer

Brad Wieferich has been named MDOT’s new chief operations officer (COO) and chief engineer. Brad brings a wealth of technical and managerial experience to the position. He demonstrates all aspects of MDOT’s Leadership Standards in Excellence and has prepared himself for this role over his years of service in the transportation industry, including 27 years with MDOT.

Beginning in 1995, Brad has held positions in the Bay, University, and Southwest regions. Engineer of Design since May 2009, and in 2015 he became the Bureau of Development director. In this role, he has been responsible for leading and overseeing strategic planning and operation of the development functions, as well as collaborating with other bureaus and offices on key initiatives and ensuring alignment.

Brad’s strong communication skills and established relationships with key partners, such as the Federal Highway Administration, the Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association, and many others, will ensure a smooth transition into his new position.

Brad has played a vital role in the advancement of the Gordie Howe International Bridge as the lead MDOT official working with the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority on design, utility, real estate, and other coordination issues, as well as co-chairing the Michigan Liaison Committee. He has also been instrumental in coordinating program development among the regions, the Bureau of Transportation Planning, and the Bureau of Finance and Administration for the Rebuilding Michigan Program and the implementation of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

In addition, he represents MDOT on several committees and teams, including the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Committee on Performance Based Management, the AASHTO subcommittee on Design, the Transportation Asset Management Council, the Michigan Dam Safety Task Force, the MDOT/American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Projects Team, and the County Road Association negotiations team.

Brad has a Bachelor of Science degree from the College of Engineering at Michigan State University and is a licensed engineer. Please welcome and congratulate Brad on his promotion to COO and chief engineer.