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The Women's Transportation Seminar (WTS) has recognized Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Deputy Administrator Karen Rae as the organization's “Woman of the Year.” The award recognizes her leadership in advancing transit and passenger-rail systems across the United States, as well as her dedication to the professional advancement of women in transportation.

“Karen Rae has been a real trailblazer among women in transportation, and has mentored a variety of young professionals throughout her decades of leadership,” said WTS Chairperson Terry Gruver in a prepared statement.

Rae began her career as a monorail operator in Hersey, Pa. Prior to joining the FRA in March 2009, she served in several senior transportation policy and management positions in state and municipal government, including appointments as deputy commissioner of policy and planning at the New York State Department of Transportation, deputy secretary for local and area transportation at the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, and director of the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation.

She also has served as director and general manager of transit systems in Austin, Texas, and Glen Falls and Buffalo, N.Y.