Ditchmen • NUCA of Florida February 2019 | Page 10

meet Kevin J. Thibault
New FDOT Secretary
half of that timeframe in the private sector, and the rest
with FDOT. In each case, I have enjoyed the challenges
that the various roles gave me, especially being a major
part of developing transportation solutions for the
people and visitors of Florida.
2. WHAT INSPIRED YOU ACCEPT THIS
AGENCY LEADERSHIP POSITION?
The vision that Governor DeSantis has for this state,
and especially delivering meaningful transportation
projects, were the biggest motivations. Also, coming
back to work with the talented staff here at FDOT, and
continuing to keep this agency as the best DOT in the
country, were major inspirations as well!
3. WHAT IS YOUR EDUCATIONAL
BACKGROUND?
I graduated from the University of Massachusetts-
Dartmouth with a Bachelors of Science Degree in Civil
Engineering. I also completed a number of leadership
programs, including the AASHTO Leadership Institute
in 1999.
Kevin J. Thibault is the new Secretary of the
Florida Department of Transportation.
1. BRIEFLY TELL US ABOUT YOUR
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND.
I started my professional career as a civil
engineer in 1985 soon after completing my
studies at the University of Massachusetts-
Dartmouth, working for a small engineering firm
in Rhode Island providing engineering plans for
the transportations agencies in the Northeast. In
1988, I relocated to Central Florida, and continued
working in the private sector until I joined FDOT
in 1993 working for Florida’s Turnpike. Over my 34
years of experience I have spent approximately
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DITCHMEN • FEBRUARY 2019
4. WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY READING?
I just finished reading a story about the short
gubernatorial term of Florida Governor Dan McCarty.
Next on my list is the book ‘Dare to Lead’.
5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE?
Back to the Future
6. WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS
PHILOSOPHY?
My management philosophy is empowering the staff
to make them successful – while at the same time
setting clear expectations and performing some level
of ‘Management by Walking Around’. Clearly in this