AVTA names Len Engel as new executive director

July 31, 2015 - The Antelope Valley Transit Authority in Lancaster, Calif., has named Len Engel, the current director of operations and maintenance, as the new executive director. Engel’s extensive background in public transit, and his familiarity with the agency's goals and objectives, made him a natural choice for the position. He replaces Julie Austin, who retired earlier this year.

"We are thrilled to have Len Engel at the helm of AVTA as executive director," said AVTA board chairman Marvin Crist. "Our vision is clear: to be the preeminent leader in electric bus integration in the country. Len has a proven track record in all aspects of public transit operations that will be essential in helping us achieve our vision as we begin the transition to a 100% electric fleet. We are very excited about the future of AVTA under his leadership."

Engel joined AVTA in 2012 as the director of operations and maintenance, which included oversight and direction in all activities of the operations, maintenance, and IT departments. He provided assistance to the executive director in many capacities, including administrating policies and procedures, coordination of activities within the department and with outside agencies, data analysis, and the development and implementation of numerous programs and projects. Since Austin's departure, Engel has been overseeing the day-to-day operations at AVTA, and is looking forward to leading the organization as its new head.

"I am honored to have been offered this great opportunity at this point in my career," Engel said. "It's a pivotal time in the public transit industry, with new technology being introduced all the time. I'm excited to be able to see things like our innovative electric bus project help pioneer a new vision for what a 21st century transit agency can look like."

Throughout his 40-year career, Engel has held numerous executive management and business development positions in public transit for both local governments and the private sector. Prior to his role at AVTA, Engel served as vice president and chief operating officer at Southland Transit and director of business development and operations at Charterways Transit Management. He is a current member of the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Small Systems Advisory Board.

Engel has a bachelor's degree in urban studies from California State University, Stanislaus, and has completed graduate work in urban and regional planning and in public administration.

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