Job description: Under Patricia's leadership, the authority has experienced transformative growth, particularly through the Amtrak Downeaster route, which operates five daily round-trips between Brunswick, Maine, and Boston. Patricia has been with NNEPRA since 2001.

Why she's influential as a leader: During Patricia's tenure, the Downeaster has achieved milestones such as ridership growth, expanded service and more efficient operations. She has aligned the efforts of her team with stakeholder interests to ensure the Downeaster meets the needs of its customers while fostering economic development along the route. She has demonstrated exceptional skill in competing for and obtaining discretionary grants to secure vital funding that supports the Downeaster's growth and other passenger-rail projects.

Patricia also has been a driving force in the development and oversight of the State-Amtrak Intercity Passenger Rail Commission, where multiple states and agencies collaborate on passenger-rail initiatives underway. Additionally, her involvement in the States for Passenger Rail Coalition has further cemented her role as a leader in advancing passenger rail on a national scale. She excels at building strong, collaborative relationships with host railroad partners, such as Pan Am Railways and CSX. Her ability to negotiate mutually beneficial agreements has benefited all stakeholders and ensured the continued success of the Downeaster route.