Boardman to succeed Thompson as WisDOT secretary

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers has named Kristina Boardman to succeed Craig Thompson as secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), effective Sept. 11.

Thompson will be leaving the Evers administration to take a position at the University of University of Wisconsin-Madison, according to a news release from Evers office. Currently deputy secretary, Boardman will become the first female to serve as the state's transportation secretary.

“For nearly 20 years, Kristina has been a key part of the WisDOT team, and her proven leadership and experience at the department, both as deputy secretary and during her time leading the DMV, have positioned her well to be an exceptional secretary,” Evers said. “I look forward to the vision and insight she will bring as a member of my cabinet and trust that her transition into the role will be seamless.”

Prior to her role as deputy secretary, Boardman served as administrator of WisDOT’s Division of Motor Vehicles. Boardman also served as chair of the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators International Board of Directors for the 2022-23 federal fiscal year.