Kimberly Avery, P.E., has been selected as the next Metro Region engineer. She succeeds Paul C. Ajegba, who is now state transportation director. Kim most recently served as the director of MDOT’s Bureau of Field Services for the past two years and in a broad array of roles before that, including as MDOT’s Southwest Region engineer, deputy region engineer in Metro Region, and Taylor TSC manager.
Kim was recognized nationally in 2011 for her contributions to the I-94 Corridor Operations Partnership. She played an instrumental role in providing internal leadership development programs both within her work areas and department-wide. She applies a people-first approach in her management style, engaging and encouraging staff to come forward and contribute to improvement efforts in their work areas.
Kim has contributed significantly to the advancement of diversity and inclusion efforts throughout the industry. She served as the president of the Michigan Chapter of the Council of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) for six years. She was recognized by COMTO in 2015 with the Michigan Transportation Pioneer Award and in 2016 with the Women Who Move the Nation – Chairman’s Eagle Award.
Kim holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Valparaiso University and is a registered professional engineer in the state of Michigan. Kim will assume the duties of Metro Region engineer on Feb. 10.
