Robert C. Johns
Senior Fellow
Humphrey School of Public Affairs
243 Humphrey Center
University of Minnesota
301 19th Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55455
Office: 612-626-2581
Email: johns003@umn.edu
Current Position:
Humphrey School of Public Affairs, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN

Senior Fellow. Teach in Humphrey’s Leadership and Management Area; conduct and support
transportation-related research in Humphrey’s Urban and Regional Planning Area; and assist in
University service and public engagement. 2016 – present
Prior Professional Position
U.S. Department of Transportation, Cambridge, MA

Director and Associate Administrator, John A. Volpe National Transportation Systems Center. Directed
a fee-for-service federal organization that conducts approximately $300 million in annual research and
innovation projects for its sponsors, including all the DOT modal administrations and other federal and
state agencies. Approximately 570 federal employees and 450 on-site contractors carry out these and
other research programs at Volpe.
Expanded outreach programs to the Center’s sponsors, asking for their feedback on Volpe performance
and involving them in forums to discuss the nation’s transportation challenges. This led to new and
expanded sponsored research and innovation programs, including analysis and modeling for improving
the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards, technical assistance and oversight for high
speed rail projects, evaluation of connected and automated vehicle technologies, acceleration of the
implementation of highway research, and expanded research for the NextGen air traffic control system.
Led high-profile priorities for the Secretary and Deputy Secretary of the Department of
Transportation, including directing a Volpe team in the writing of Secretary Foxx’s 30-year vision for
transportation, defining a strategic planning process for helping Secretary LaHood transform the U.S.
Merchant Marine Academy, and facilitating monthly meetings of the Deputy Secretary’s Safety
Council.
Led two Volpe strategic planning efforts, with extensive participation of Volpe staff. Resulted in
several initiatives to strengthen the Volpe organization, including an annual Innovation Challenge,
leadership development programs, and a webinar series on emerging transportation trends.
Restructured the Center and initiated process improvements that led to an 11 percent reduction in
Volpe’s overhead rate. 2009 - 2016
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Other Academic Positions:
Center for Transportation Studies, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN

Director. Directed the Center’s transportation research, education and outreach functions, attracting an
annual budget of $20 million that supported over 40 faculty members and 200 staff and graduate
students. Led interdisciplinary research programs on transportation and community design, access to
destinations, and transportation and regional growth. 2001-2009

Deputy Director, Directed the delivery of research, education, and outreach programs administered by the
Center. 1996-2001

Acting Director. Directed Center's research, education, and outreach functions, with an annual budget of
$6 million supporting over 20 faculty members and 80 staff and graduate students. 1994-1996. Also
served as acting director in 1998-99 and 2000-01.

Associate Director. Responsible for strategic design of Center research, education, and outreach
programs and for management of staff. Designed participatory structure of advisory committees. 19901994

Coordinator for Research. Developed joint transportation research programs with funding agencies and
mechanisms for funding university faculty, staff, and students. 1988-1990
Department of Civil Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN

Lecturer. Taught CE Project Management course to undergraduate and graduate engineering students and
served as a guest lecturer in transportation planning and engineering courses. 1993-1998
Other Professional Positions:
Metropolitan Council of the Twin Cities Area, St. Paul, MN

Manager, Regional Data Center. Created division charged with making Council data accessible to
external clients. Addressed regional data issues and conducted community outreach. 1985-1988
Minnesota Department of Transportation, St. Paul, MN

Director, Methods and Data Systems Section. Directed section responsible for methods research,
database development, information services, and data management. 1982-1985

Director, Planning Methods. Directed development of transportation planning models, information
systems, and user support programs. 1980-1982

Manager, Methods Analysis. Created new section for developing and evaluating planning processes and
methodologies. 1978-1980
Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway Company, Chicago, IL

Assistant Market Manager and Market Manager. Conducted market research and developed marketing
plans for rail transportation of food products. 1976-1978
University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA

Programmer/Analyst and Systems Analyst, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Project manager
and programmer/analyst for development of on-line computer systems. 1973-1976
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Education:

Master of Arts, English, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa (1976)

Master of Business Administration (MBA), University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa (1973)

Bachelor of Science, Engineering Operations, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa (1971)
Honors and Awards:

Awarded the USDOT Secretary’s Partnering for Excellence Award by Secretary Anthony Foxx in
recognition of leadership and significant contributions in developing the Secretary’s 30-year outlook on
transportation, Beyond Traffic 2045: Trends and Choices. (2015)

Awarded the Distinguished Federal Executive of the Year award by the Greater Boston Federal
Executive Board, the highest award in its annual Excellence in Government Awards competition. (2015)

Appointed Emeritus Member of the Transportation Research Board Policy and Organization Group
Executive Board. This designation recognizes significant, long-term contributions by individuals who
have provided outstanding service through participation on the Board’s standing committees. (2013)

Awarded the USDOT Secretary’s Partnering for Excellence Award by Secretary Ray LaHood in
recognition of leadership and significant contributions in developing the U.S. Merchant Marine
Academy’s Strategic Plan. (2012)

Awarded the Chair’s Award for Leadership of the Greater Boston Federal Executive Board, recognizing
a Board leader who has worked to help the Board better serve federal employees and the community at
large. (2012)

Awarded the University of Minnesota’s Richard P. Braun Distinguished Service Award, for outstanding
leadership in research and innovation. (2012)

Designated the honorary title of National Associate of the Council of the National Academy of Sciences
to recognize extraordinary service on committees of the National Research Council. (2008)
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Publications:
Peer-reviewed journal articles
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
Jette, A. and R.C. Johns. 2015. Signals from the Crowd: Strategic Management and Learning through
Crowdsourcing. (Accepted for publication in the Transportation Research Record, Journal of the
Transportation Research Board.)

Segev, E., J. Chen, B. English, and R.C. Johns. 2014. The Impacts of Participatory Strategic Planning on
Advancing Innovation at the Volpe Center. Transportation Research Record 2420, 45-54

Johns, R.C. 2003.Transportation Research Contributions to Society by University Transportation
Centers. IATTS Review Vol. 27, No. 4, International Association of Traffic and Safety Sciences, 268-277

Braslau, D. and R.C. Johns. 1998. Use of Air Transportation by Business and Industry in Minnesota.
Transportation Research Record 1622, 31-40

Nelson, B., R.C. Johns, and R. J. Benke. 1996. Challenges of Upgrading Strategic Capability in the
Public Sector. Transportation Research Record 1558, 122-129

Johns, R.C. and F. Corrigan. 1993. Can Road-Builders Join the Public in Influencing Transportation
Policy? A Minnesota Case Study. Transportation Research Record 1400, 41-47

Johns, R.C. 1992. Towards a Balanced Transportation Research Program. Transportation Research
Record 1305, 377-384

Braun, R.P., R.C. Johns, and C. Erickson. 1983. Public Management in a Time of Declining Resources.
Transportation Research Record 940, 61-66

Erickson, C. and R.C. Johns. 1983. Minnesota’s Railroad Information System. Transportation Research
Record 917, 34-37
Research reports

Goldberg, A., R.C. Johns, L.M. Neckar, J.S. Adams, B.J. Vandrasek, J. Carmody, V. Singh, C. Petit, A.
Forsyth, J. Jacobson, K. Thering, C. Schively, M. Beekman, C.M. Carlson, J. Reed, and G.A. Davis
(Project Team). 2007. How Well-Designed Transportation Projects Make Great Communities. CTS 0706. SAFETEA-LU SEC. 1925 Community Enhancement Study. American Institute of Architects and
University of Minnesota Center for Transportation Studies. 64pp

Johns, R.C., G. Baas, and T. Helms. 2007. Project Delivery Work Force Management Review. NCHRP
20-07, Task 205, Transportation Research Board

Johns, R.C., G. Baas, and A. Mathison. 2005. CEO Engagement Options for Discussing Strategic Issues
and Sharing Best Practices. NCHRP 20-24(38). Transportation Research Board

Johns, R.C. and S. Lockwood. 2001. Summary of Eight Scanning Studies: Managing Change in State
DOTs. NCHRP 20-24 (14), Transportation Research Board

Johns, R.C., R.P Braun, and H. Golden. 1992. AASHTO'S Transportation Leadership Program: Senior
Executive Support Program Participant's Manual. National Cooperative Highway Research Program,
Transportation Research Board
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Proceedings

Cavanaugh, P. and R.C. Johns. 2007. Politics and Freeways: U.S. Cases of Social Conflict and
Institutional Adaptation. Proceedings of the Historical Symposium of the 23rd World Road Congress.
Paris, France

Trenda, C.F. and R.C. Johns. 1995. The Application of Technology Transfer Principles to the Minnesota
T2 Program. Conference Proceedings of the 1995 Transportation Research Board Sixth International
Conference on Low Volume Roads, Volume 1, 340-347

Johns, R.C. 1992. Intelligent Vehicle/Highway Systems: The Evaluation Challenge. Proceedings of
the IVHS AMERICA 1992 Annual Meeting, 386-387

Johns, R.C. 1991. Academic Research Efforts in the Minnesota Guidestar Intelligent Vehicle/Highway
Systems Program. Proceedings of the 1991 American Society of Civil Engineers Conference on
Applications of Advanced Technologies in Transportation Engineering, 463-467

Johns, R.C. 1990. Transportation Information Systems Using Machine Vision Technology. Proceedings
of the 1990 Urban and Regional Information Systems Association Annual Conference, Vol. 1, 199-210
Other Publications

Foxx, Anthony (U.S. Secretary of Transportation). 2015. Beyond Traffic 2045: Trends and Choices.
Leader of Volpe Center team in the writing and production of Secretary Foxx’s 30-year framework:
http://www.dot.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/docs/Draft_Beyond_Traffic_Framework.pdf.
U.S. Department of Transportation, 316pp

Jette, A., A. Breck, and R.C. Johns. Integrating Balanced Scorecard Performance Management with
Crowdsourced Strategic Planning. 2015 TRB Annual Meeting Compendium of Papers.
http://amonline.trb.org/15-4697-1.1801828?qr=1

Johns, R.C. July 17, 2008. Saving Lives on Our Nation’s Highways: Traffic Safety Performance
Measures. Written testimony and presentation to Full Committee Hearing, U.S. Senate Committee on
Environment and Public Works

Johns, R.C. 2008. Co-Chair of Transportation Academic Mission Task Force responsible for chapter in
The Vision for a University-Founded Community at the University of Minnesota Outreach, Research,
and Education Park. University of Minnesota, 60–64

Johns, R.C. 2005. Benefits from Transportation Research Investments at the University of Minnesota.
Report to the Minnesota Department of Transportation and the Minnesota Local Road Research Board,
University of Minnesota Center for Transportation Studies.

Johns, R.C., R.P. Braun, and H. Golden. 1993. Part I of A Leadership Manual for New Chief
Administrative Officers. American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials

Johns, R.C. 1991-1996. Editor of Transportation Strategy, published twice annually by the
Transportation Research Board Strategic Management Committee.
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
Johns, R.C. 1988. Research Strategies: A Report of the 1988 Meetings of the Center for Transportation
Studies Advisory Board. University of Minnesota Center for Transportation Studies

Johns, R.C. 1985. A Framework for Human Resource Management in the Minnesota Department of
Transportation. Report to the Commissioner, Minnesota Department of Transportation, 104 pp
____________________________________________________________________________________
Other Scholarly Activities:
Refereed research presentations

Segev, E., J. Chen, B. English, and R.C. Johns. “The Impacts of Participatory Strategic Planning on
Advancing Innovation at the Volpe Center.” Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting.
Washington, DC (January 13, 2014)

Johns, R.C. and F. Corrigan. “Can Road-Builders Join the Public in Influencing Transportation Policy?
A Minnesota Case Study.” Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting, Washington DC. (January
12, 1993)

Johns, R.C. “Towards a Balanced Transportation Research Program.” Transportation Research Board
Annual Meeting, Washington DC. (January 14, 1992)
Other Presentations
National Presentations

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter and panelist). “Framing U.S. Surface Transportation Research for the
Future—Reactions to and Implications of TRB Policy Committee Recommendations.” Transportation
Research Board Annual Meeting. Washington, DC (January 13, 2014)

Johns, R.C. (invited keynote speaker). “Connected Transportation: Realizing the Vision.” The IEEE
Vehicular Networking Conference, Boston, MA. (December 16, 2013)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter). “A Framework for the Implementation of MAP -21 Safety Authority for
the Federal Transit Administration.” Presented to the USDOT Transit Rail Advisory Committee for
Safety (TRACS), Washington, DC. (September 20, 2012)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter and panelist). “Actions for Federal Agencies to Improve Collaboration in
University-Agency Partnerships.” The Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting. Washington,
DC. (January 10, 2012)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter and panelist). “Federal Perspective on Next Steps for Improving Roadway
Safety Programs in the University-Agency Partnership Framework.” The TRB\UTC Conference on
Improving Roadway Safety Programs through University-Agency Partnerships. Washington, DC.
(November 3, 2011)
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
Johns, R.C. (invited presenter). “Livable Communities: The Critical Role of Performance Measures from
Concept to Implementation.” The Conference on Performance Measures for Transportation and Livable
Communities. Texas Transportation Institute, Texas A&M University. Austin, TX. (September 7, 2011)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter and panelist). “Strategic Decision-Making: Conversations with Leaders on
Building Effective Partnerships.” The Transportation Research Board Joint Summer Meeting. Boston,
MA. (July 11, 2011)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter). “Data Driven Decision Making in Transportation – Leveraging the IT
Investment.” The Transportation Research Board Joint Summer Meeting on Planning and Performance
Measurement for All Modes. Minneapolis, MN. (July 13, 2010)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter and panelist). “The Transportation Workforce: University of Minnesota
CTS Strategies.” The Council of University Transportation Centers. San Jose, CA. (June 26, 2008)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter). “Transportation Information in the Context of New Service Models and
CEO Priorities.” The Second Annual Meeting of the Transportation Library Connectivity Pooled Fund
Study. St. Paul, MN. (September 2006)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter). “Transportation Information: What Comes Next? The Knowledge and
Library Connectivity Conference. Kansas City, MO. (October 2005)

Johns, R.C. (session organizer and moderator). “The Integration of Performance Measurement and Asset
Management.” The Transportation Research Board Summer Meeting. Boston, MA. (July 2005)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter). “Highway Research and Technology Coordination: A University
Perspective.” The Transportation Research Board Research and Technology Coordinating Committee.
Washington, DC. (March 2005)

Johns, R.C. (session organizer and moderator). “The Future of Transportation Finance.” The
Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting. Washington, DC. (January 2005)

Johns, R.C. (session organizer and moderator). “Transportation Safety Management.” The Transportation
Research Board Summer Meeting. Seattle, WA. (July 2004)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter and panelist). “Research Partnerships: Integration of Organizational
Cultures.” The Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting. Washington DC. (January 2002)

Johns, R.C. (invited rapporteur to summarize and lead discussion of six research papers). “Innovations in
Delivery of Transportation Services.” The Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting. Washington,
DC. (January 2002)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter). “Managing Change in State Departments of Transportation: Results of
NCHRP Mini-Case Studies.” Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting. Washington DC. (January
2001)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter). “Regional Growth in the Twin Cities.” Annual Meeting of American
Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. Phoenix, AZ. (December 2000)
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
Johns, R.C. (plenary session organizer and moderator). “Managing Change in State Departments of
Transportation: Workshop Report.” Transportation Research Board Joint Summer Meeting on Leading
Trends in Transportation. Washington DC. (July 2000)

Johns, R.C. (session organizer and moderator). “Asset Management Concepts and Innovations.”
Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting. Washington DC. (January 2000)

Johns, R.C. (session organizer and moderator). “Future Changes Facing Transportation Agencies and
Providers: Long-Term Implications and Strategies.” Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting.
Washington DC. (January 11, 1999)

McGinnis, L.G. and R.C. Johns. (invited presenters). “Impacts of University Research.”
Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting. Washington, DC. (January 1997)

Johns, R.C. (session organizer and moderator). “State Transportation Planning: Scenarios for the
Future.” Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting. Washington, DC. (January 1994)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter and breakout leaders). “Future Directions for Public Involvement in
Transportation.” National Transportation Research Board Conference on Public Involvement and
ISTEA. Little Rock, AR. (July 1993)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter and panelist). “Highways of the Future and Their Development
Implications,” National Meeting of the Urban Land Institute Development Regulations Council.
Minneapolis, MN. (May 1993)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter and panelist). “Emerging Strategic Issues and their Organizational
Implications: Intelligent Vehicle/Highway Systems.” Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting.
Washington, DC. (January 1992)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter). “Research Strategies at the University of Minnesota Center for
Transportation Studies.” The Association of Commuters in Transportation National Conference.
Minneapolis, MN. (September 1991)

Johns, R.C. (session organizer and moderator). “The Involvement of Policy Makers in Transportation
Modeling: What are the Impacts?” Urban and Regional Information Systems Association Annual
Conference. San Francisco, CA. (August 1989)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter and panelist). “The Pricing of Information Services at the Twin Cities
Metropolitan Council Data Center.” Urban and Regional Information Systems Association Annual
Conference. Boston, MA. (August 1986)
State/Local Presentations

Johns, R.C., Patnaude, D. (invited presenter and panelist). “High-Stakes Project Management: The
CDAN Data Modernization Project for NHTSA.” The Cambridge Roundtable, Mass Bay Chapter, PMI,
Cambridge, MA. (August 26, 2014)
 Johns, R.C. (invited presenter). “A Conversation about Federal Transportation Opportunities and
Challenges.” The Humphrey School of Public Affairs, University of Minnesota. Minneapolis, MN.
(April 18, 2012)
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
Johns, R.C. “Transportation Innovation at the USDOT Volpe Center: Safety R&D at the Federal Level.”
The Tom Maze Transportation Memorial Seminar, Iowa State University. Ames, IA . (April 6, 2012)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter). “The Role of the Volpe Center in Transportation Research and
Innovation.” Distinguished Speaker Series, Center for Transportation and Logistics, Massachusetts
Institute of Technology. Cambridge, MA. (December 4, 2009)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter). “Our Nation’s Transportation Infrastructure: Heading Towards a Crisis?”
The North Central Business Travel Association. Minneapolis, MN. (May 8, 2008)

Johns, R.C. (invited capstone speaker). “Leadership Perspectives and Resources of the University of
Minnesota.” Leadership Conference, Aggregate and Ready Mix Association of Minnesota. Minneapolis,
MN. (August 18, 2004)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter). “Experiences of the Center for Transportation Studies at the University of
Minnesota.” The Wisconsin Transportation Center Workshop. Madison, WI. (April 2001)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter). “Technology Transfer Strategies at the University of Minnesota Center
for Transportation Studies.” University of Minnesota Center for Transportation Studies Second Annual
Transportation Research Conference. St. Paul, MN. (May 1991)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter and panelist). “Continuing Education for Civil Engineers.” Corps of
Engineers Regional Meeting. St. Paul, MN. (September 1990)

Johns, R.C. (invited presenter). “Strategic Planning Process for Development of a Transportation
Research Agenda.” University of Minnesota Center for Transportation Studies First Annual
Transportation Research Conference. St. Paul, MN. (May 1990)
Conference Leadership

Host and moderator for webinar series of national speakers. “Beyond Traffic 2045: Reimagining
Transportation.” USDOT Volpe Center. Cambridge, MA. (2015)

Host and moderator for webinar series of national speakers. “Transportation and the Economy.” USDOT
Volpe Center. Cambridge, MA. (2014-2015)

Host and moderator for webinar series of national speakers. “Transportation and Climate Change:
System Adaptation and Resilience.” USDOT Volpe Center. Cambridge, MA. (2013-2014)

Host and moderator. “Colloquium on Transportation Safety in the Digital Age: A Roundtable on
Automation and the Human: Intended and Unintended Consequences.” USDOT Volpe Center.
Cambridge, MA. (April 13, 2012)

Host and moderator. “FHWA Cost Estimation Capacity building Workshops for State DOTs.” Sponsored
by Federal Highway Administration and supported by Center for Transportation Studies, University of
Minnesota. Minneapolis, MN (2007)
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
Chair of planning committee, host, and moderator. “State DOT Workforce Review Workshop on Best
Practices.” Sponsored by Transportation Research Board and supported by Center for Transportation
Studies, University of Minnesota. Minneapolis, MN (2005-2006)

Host and moderator. “State DOT CEO Leadership Forums.” Sponsored by TRB, AASHTO, and FHWA
and supported by Center for Transportation Studies, University of Minnesota. Minneapolis, MN (2000,
2003, 2006, and 2009)

Creator, host, and moderator for forums featuring Congressman James Oberstar and national leaders.
“James L. Oberstar Forum on Transportation Policy and Technology.” Center for Transportation Studies,
University of Minnesota. Minneapolis, MN. (held annually 2002-2009)

Co-chair of planning committee. “Mn/DOT Project Delivery Streamlining Workshop.” Sponsored by
Mn/DOT and supported by Center for Transportation Studies. Minneapolis, MN. (2001)

Host and moderator. “Community Based Transportation: Improving Access for the Transportation
Disadvantaged.” Sponsored by Minnesota DOT and supported by Center for Transportation Studies,
University of Minnesota. Minneapolis, MN. (2001)

Host and moderator. “North Star Conference on Improving Traffic Safety: Towards Zero Deaths.”
Sponsored by the Minnesota DOT and Department of Public Safety and supported by Center for
Transportation Studies, University of Minnesota. Minneapolis, MN. (2001)

Co-chair of planning committee. “Transportation Research Board Joint Summer Meeting on
Transportation Planning, Economics, and Management.” (held annually 1998-2004 at various locations)

Chair, planning committee, and moderator. “CTS Symposium on Impacts of Logistics on the Upper
Midwest Economy.” Minneapolis, MN. (held annually 1997-2009)

Chair, planning committee, and moderator. “Small Railroads and Economic Development.” Center for
Transportation Studies, University of Minnesota. Minneapolis, MN. (1997)

Chair, planning committee, and moderator. “Twin Cities to Chicago: Is High-Speed Rail Part of our
Future?” Center for Transportation Studies, University of Minnesota. Minneapolis, MN. (1996)

Chair, planning committee, and moderator. “CTS Symposium on Vehicle Emissions Control: Prediction,
Monitoring, and Public Policy.” Center for Transportation Studies, University of Minnesota.
Minneapolis, MN. (1995)

Member, TRB steering committee, and host. “Sixth International Conference on Low Volume Roads.”
Sponsored by Transportation Research Board and hosted by Center for Transportation Studies.
Minneapolis, MN. (1995)

Member, program planning committee. “IVHS America Annual Meeting.” Washington, DC. (1992)

Member, program planning committee. “Urban and Regional Information Systems Annual Conference.”
Boston, MA. (1991)

Co-sponsor and co-chair, conference planning committee. “Art, Architecture, and Engineering: A
Blueprint for Change.” Minneapolis, MN. (1989)
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
Co-chair, planning committee. “The Information Chain Under Stress: How is it Performing?” Sponsored
by the Metropolitan Council and Metronet. St. Paul, MN. (1987)

Chair, steering committee. “Computer Mapping Symposium for the Metropolitan Area.” Sponsored by
the Metropolitan Council. St. Paul, MN. (1987)
Research and Related Support:
Major Research Programs (support of multiple faculty, projects, and disciplines)

Johns, R.C. (CTS director). “Study on the Role of Well-Designed Transportation Projects in Enhancing
Communities.” American Institute of Architects through a contract with the Federal Highway
Administration. $1,000,000. Attracted and allocated these funds to PIs in Architecture, Civil Engineering,
Regional Planning, Geography, and Landscape Architecture to carry out this interdisciplinary study.
(2006-2008)

Johns, R.C. (CTS director). “Access to Destinations Study.” Minnesota Department of Transportation,
Hennepin County, and the McKnight Foundation. ~$1,500,000. Attracted and allocated these funds to
PIs in Civil Engineering, Regional Planning, and Mechanical Engineering to carry out this
interdisciplinary study. (2004-2009)

Johns, R.C. (CTS director). “Intelligent Transportation Systems Institute.” USDOT University
Transportation Center Program. $3,500,000 per year for six years, plus various local matching funds.
Attracted these funds and appointed Mechanical Engineering Professor Max Donath to lead this program
that was established by TEA-21 federal legislation. CTS managed a competitive process to provide
research funding to faculty in the Institute of Technology, the Humphrey Institute, and the University of
Minnesota-Duluth, including funds for education, outreach, and research laboratories. (2003-2009)

Johns, R.C. (CTS director). “Minnesota Guidestar Program Support.” Minnesota Department of
Transportation through funding appropriated by Congress for intelligent transportation systems (ITS)
research. $2,681,467. Attracted and allocated these funds to PIs in various departments for an ITS
research program begun in 1993 under former CTS director Richard Braun in cooperation with the State
and Local Policy Program of the Humphrey Institute. (2002-2006)

Johns, R.C. (CTS director). “Transportation and Regional Growth Study.” Minnesota Department of
Transportation, Minnesota Local Road Research Board, and Metropolitan Council. ~$1,000,000.
Attracted and allocated these funds to PIs in Civil Engineering, Geography, Economics, and Urban and
Regional Affairs to complete this interdisciplinary study begun in 1997 under former CTS director
Gerard McCullough, with total funding approximately $2,000,000. (2001-2003)

Johns, R.C. (CTS director). “Center for Transportation Studies Research, Education, and Outreach
Operations.” Minnesota Department of Transportation through funding appropriated by the Minnesota
Legislature for CTS at $800,000 per year, established in 1992 under former CTS director Richard Braun.
Sustained and used this funding for CTS base research, education, and outreach programs. Worked with
legislative leaders to increase this funding to $1,200,000 per year in 2009. (2001-2009)
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Research Projects and Related Activities

Johns, R.C. (PI), L. McGinnis (Co-PI), and E. Goetz (Co-PI). “Design of a Framework for Measuring
Sustainable Regional Development.” McKnight Foundation. $50,000. (2009)

Johns, R.C. (PI). “State DOT CEO Leadership Forum.” Transportation Research Board NCHRP Project
20-24(67). $148,555. (2008-2009)

Johns, R.C. (PI). “Value Capture for Transportation Finance Study.” Minnesota State Legislature.
$325,000. (2008-2009)

Johns, R.C. (PI). “Cost Estimating and Cost Management Capacity Building Workshops.” Federal
Highway Administration. $150,000. (2007-2008)

Johns, R.C. (PI) and D. Spanhake (Co-PI). “Transitway Impact Research Program.” Consortium of Twin
Cities counties, Metropolitan Council, and Minnesota Department of Transportation. ~$500,000. (20072009)

Park, Hyun-A (PI) and R.C. Johns (Co-PI). “Implementing Transportation Knowledge Networks.”
Transportation Research Board NCHRP Project 20-75. ~$50,000. (2007-2009)

Johns, R.C. (PI), L. McGinnis (Co-PI), and K. Krizek (Co-PI). “Non-Motorized Transportation Pilot
Program Evaluation.” Federal Highway Administration. $329,509. (2006-2009)

Johns, R.C. (PI). “Traffic Laboratory Design and Infrastructure.” Minnesota Department of
Transportation. $35,000. (2006-2007)

Johns, R.C.(PI). “State DOT CEO Leadership Forum.” Transportation Research Board NCHRP Project
20-24(51). $99,280. (2005-2007).

Johns, R.C. (PI). “Project Delivery Workforce Management Review.” Transportation Research board
NCHRP Project. $49,990. (2005-2007

Johns, R.C. (PI) and G. Baas (Co-PI). “CEO Discussion of Strategic Issues and Sharing Best Practices.”
Transportation Research Board NCHRP Project 20-24(38). $49,654. (2004-2005)

Johns, R.C. (PI). “Mn/ROAD Governance Structure.” Minnesota Department of Transportation. $29,992.
(2003-2004)
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Johns, R.C. (PI). “Community-based Transportation: A Framework for Action.” Hennepin County.
$198,401. (2004-2006)

Johns, R.C. (PI). “Establishment and Oversight of a Pavement Research Institute.” Minnesota
Department of Transportation and the Minnesota Local Road Research Board. $730,000. (2003-2009)

Johns, R.C. (PI). “State DOT CEO Peer Exchange.” Transportation Research Board NCHRP Project.
$99,335. (2002-2003)

Johns, R.C. (PI). “North Star Workshop: Connecting the Minnesota Safety Agenda.” Minnesota
Department of Transportation. $110,331. (2001-2003)
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Johns, R.C. (PI). “Community-based Transportation Workshop and Outreach.” United Way. ~$20,000.
(2001)

Johns, R.C. (PI). “Organizational Alternatives for Project Delivery Streamlining.” Minnesota Department
of Transportation. ~$50,000. (2001-2002)

Johns, R.C. (PI) and S. Lockwood (Co-PI). “Managing Change in State Departments of Transportation.”
Transportation Research Board NCHRP 20-24(14). ~$80,000. (2000-2001)

DeCramer, G. (PI) and R.C. Johns (Co-PI). Evaluation of Mn/DOT Area Transportation Planning
Process.” Minnesota Department of Transportation. ~$100,000. (1995-1997)

Johns, R.C. (PI) and B. Nelson (Co-PI). “Strategic Management Research and Implementation.”
Minnesota Department of transportation. ~$50,000 (1994-1995)

Braun, R.P. (PI) and R.C. Johns (Co-PI). “Development of a Senior Executive Service Participant’s
Manual.” Transportation Research Board NCHRP Project 20-24(4). ~$150,000. (1990-1991)
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Teaching and Related Activites:
University of Minnesota Courses:

Humphrey School: PA 5920-001 Project Management in the Public Arena. Spring semester, 2016

Civil Engineering: CE 5703 Project Management: Fall quarter, 1992-1998
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Civil Engineering: Guest Lecturer for transportation planning and engineering courses. 1990-2009
Related Education Activities

Provided CTS funding and staff support to graduate students to help them establish the Interdisciplinary
Transportation Student Organization (ITSO). (2003)

Led planning for the CTS Graduate Certificate Program in Transportation Studies, approved by the
Graduate School. (2000)

Created CTS Task Force on Logistics, Transportation and Distribution, involving educators from
multiple Minnesota institutions and practitioners in order to strengthen, coordinate, and communicate
logistics and freight education opportunities. (1994)

Attracted federal and state match funding to establish a Minnesota Technology Transfer Center as part of
the Federal Highway Local Technical Assistance Program, responsible for development and conduct of a
variety of one-to-two-day training courses and other events and activities for transportation practitioners.
(1992)
____________________________________________________________________________________
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Service:
National Committees
Transportation Research Board
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Emeritus Member, Policy and Organization Group Executive Board. (2012-present)
Chair, Technical Activities Council, providing oversight to TRB’s 200 standing committees. (2008-2011)
Member, Committee for Strategic Highway Research Implementation Report to Congress. (2007-2008)
Member, Technical Activities Council. (2005-2011)
Chair, Policy and Organization Group, providing oversight to 30 TRB standing committees. (2005-2008)
Member, Policy Study on a Future Strategy for Transportation Information Management. (2004-2005)
Chair, Task Force on Roles of Sections and Groups in TRB Committee Reorganization. (2003-2004)
At-Large Member, Division A Council for Technical Activities. (2003-2005)
Chair, Management and Leadership Section, providing oversight to four committees. (2002-2005)
Member, Performance Measures Committee. (2001-present)
Member, Steering Committee for Requirements for Spatial Information Infrastructure. (2001-2003)
Chair, Strategic Management Committee. (1997-2002)
Member, Steering Committee for Sixth International Conference on Low Volume Roads (1992-1995)
Member, Committee on Management and Productivity. (1991-2000)
Member, Strategic Management Committee. (1989-present)
Member, Citizen Participation Committee. (1988-1997)
Member, Data and Information system Committee. (1983-1986)
Council of University Transportation Centers
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Member, Executive Committee. (2007-2009)
Intelligent Transportation Systems Society of America
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Co-Chair, Benefits, Evaluation, and Costs (BEC) Monitoring Subcommittee. (1993-1995)
Chair, BEC Task Force on Information Gathering for Performance. (1991-1993)
Member, Annual Meeting Program Planning Committee. (1991-1992)
Member, BEC Steering Committee. (1991-1997)
Urban and Regional Information Systems Association
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Chair, Transportation Special Interest Group. (1990-1991)
Vice-Chair, Transportation Special Interest Group. (1989-1990)
Member, Transportation Special Interest Group. (1988-1993)
Member, Regional Agency Special Interest Group. (1986-1988)
Other National Service
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Member of European Travel Study Project delegation, focusing on transportation and land use policies in
London, Amsterdam, and Copenhagen. Sponsored by FHWA and AASHTO. (2008)
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Member, National Task Force on Measuring Technology Transfer Effectiveness. Federal Highway
Administration. (1994-1996)

Member, NCHRP Panel on Synthesis of Management and Productivity Practices by State DOTs. (19941997)
State/Local Service

Chair, Greater Boston Federal Executive Board of Directors. (2013-2014)

Member, Greater Boston Federal Executive Board of Directors. (2009-2015)

Member, Transportation Engineering and Road Research Alliance (TERRA) Board of Directors and cochair of Member and Partner Engagement Committee. (2004-2009)

Designed and facilitated a series of Transportation Policymaker Forums for University faculty to present
research findings to Minnesota state legislators. (2003-2009)

Member, Intercity Leadership Visit Team, Joint Program of the Minneapolis and St. Paul Chambers of
Commerce. (2004-2006)
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Chair, CTS Transit Task Force, for development of report of Minnesota transit research issues. (19912001)

Member, Minnesota Guidestar Board of Directors and Executive Committee, for guiding investments in
Intelligent Transportation Systems. (1997-2009)
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Member, Minnesota Airport Technical Assistance Program (AirTAP) Steering Committee. (1997-2002)
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Member, Minnesota Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP) Steering Committee. (1994-2009)
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Designed and moderated forums for the Regional Transit Board on alternative fuels and on light rail
systems in the Twin Cities. (1990)

Member of Minnesota Local Road Research Board, representing University of Minnesota in defining
transportation research needs and directions for local governments. (1989-2009)

Member, Telecommunications Study Committee, Minnesota Citizens League. (1989-1990)
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Member, Minnesota Surveyors and Engineers Society. (1989-present)

Member, North Central Institute of Transportation Engineers. (1988-2009)
University of Minnesota Service

Co-Chair, Transportation Task Force, UMore community development initiative in Rosemount (20062008)

Provided CTS funding and staff support for publication of four books:
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o
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Levinson, D. and K. Krizek. Access to Destinations. (2005)
Cavanaugh, P. Politics and Freeways: Building the Twin Cities Interstate System. (2006)
Levinson, D. and K. Krizek. Planning for Place and Plexus. (2008)
Katz, J. From Footpaths to Freeways: A Survey of Roads and Highways in Minnesota. 2009

Chair, Program Management team. Access to Destinations Study. (2004-2009)

Member, Humphrey Institute search committees for transportation planning faculty (Jason Cao, Yingling
Fan)
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Developed financial arrangement with Humphrey Institute associate dean to use CTS seed funding for
the creation of an additional transportation planning faculty position.

Developed strategy to establish CTS Richard P. Braun Chair in Transportation Engineering, using CTS
royalty funds as initial contribution. Member of fundraising committee to secure matching funds. (20022005)

Member, Civil and Mineral Engineering search committees for pavement and transportation engineering
faculty. (Mihai Marasteanu, Henry Liu)

Allocated ITS Institute federal funds and negotiated terms for establishment of the Northland Advanced
Transportation Systems Research Laboratories at the University of Minnesota-Duluth. (2000-2001)

Chair, ITS Institute Board, responsible for guiding research, education, and outreach activities for the
USDOT-funded ITS Institute. (1999-2009)

Chair, Program Management Team, Transportation and Regional Growth Study. (1998-2003)

Attracted funding to create librarian and outreach positions in CTS to expand services to transportation
stakeholders. (1995-1997)
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Designed and established six CTS Councils for transportation research, education, and outreach,
involving faculty and practitioners in defining needs and sharing information. (1991)

Developed roles and funding mechanisms for joint transportation research program between CTS and the
Regional Transit Board of the Twin Cities. (1990)

Initiated a series of meetings between the University and the Minnesota Department of Transportation to
define a joint research program in Intelligent Vehicle/Highway Systems, leading to the creation of the
Minnesota Guidestar program. (1989)

University of Minnesota Coordinator, Mountain-Plains Consortium for Federal Region 7. USDOT
University Transportation Centers Program. (1989)

Initiated an annual transportation research conference sponsored by CTS for Minnesota transportation
researchers and practitioners. (1989)
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Designed an ongoing series of events sponsored by CTS, including luncheon speaker events, faculty
seminars, and career information speakers. (1989)
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Defined CTS role in expanded joint research program between the University and the Minnesota
Department of Transportation, including requests for proposals, basic agreements, task order funding
procedures, and responsibilities for managing funded research projects. (1988-1990)

Designed and implemented CTS Executive Committee and Advisory Board structure and coordinated
strategic planning process to help guide CTS research, education, and outreach efforts. (1988-1989)
Community Service
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Chair, Human Resource Committee, Friends of the St. Paul Public Library. (1992-2002)
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President, Parent Advisory Council, St. Paul Central High School. (1997-1998)
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Member, Board of Trustees, Friends of the St. Paul Public Library. (1996-2005)
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Chair, Strategic Issues Committee, Parent Advisory Council, St. Paul Central High School. (1994-1996)
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Member, Advocacy Committee, Friends of the St. Paul Public Library. (1994-1999)
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Youth Program Basketball Coach, St. Paul Groveland Recreation Center. (1988-1994)
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Member, Domestic Program Advisory Committee, American Refugee Committee. (1984-1987)
Consulting/Advising
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USDOT Volpe Center (2016 – present)
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Battelle (2008-2009)
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National Cooperative Highway Research Program (2000-2002, 1991-1992)
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U.S. Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations (1994-1995)
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