Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) CEO Will Kempton was named one of the nation’s top 10 ten public works leaders in the U.S. by the American Public Works Association (APWA), a national organization representing public works officials and civil engineers.
The award, considered to be one of the most prestigious in the industry by the 2,000-member organization, recognizes individuals across the U.S. and Canada that have demonstrated professionalism, expertise and dedication to advancing the field of public works and improving the quality of life in their communities.
“Will Kempton is the most deserving of this award,” said George Alvarez, president of the Southern California chapter of APWA. “His tenacity and dedication to his work has always made him an effective leader. He is one of the most hard-working people I know and that’s what makes him so well-respected over the years.”
Kempton, a 35-year veteran in the transportation industry, joined OCTA in 2009. Prior to becoming OCTA’s top executive, he was the former director of Caltrans. One of Kempton’s greatest accomplishments was expediting the completion of massive repairs of a freeway overpass in Oakland following a tanker-truck accident in 2007.
“It is humbling to be recognized by such a distinguished national organization,” Kempton said. “I have had the pleasure of working with incredible people throughout my career, and look forward to continuing to improve the infrastructure here in Orange County.”
Recipients of this national award will be recognized at APWA’s annual awards ceremony in Boston in August.
