Government Market News StaffProfiles in Power highlights public officials nationwide who are improving their communities through their dedication, enthusiasm, creativity and experience.
This week’s profile is Brad Smith, executive director of the Mississippi Department of Transportation.
My career highlights and education: I have had the pleasure to serve as a chief of staff four times—once for a governor, twice for U.S. senators and once for the Mississippi Department of Audit. Being named executive director of the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) has been the greatest highlight. I have a bachelor’s degree in business management from Belhaven University.
What I like best about public service: I’m working to leave a legacy that will outlive me in my home state and nation.
The best advice I’ve ever received: You can trust anyone once you figure out who they are… you just trust them to be themselves. Then, you will never be surprised. Also, if you want someone to help you get what you want, you must always try to be helpful in working with others to meet their goals.
Something I wish more people knew about MDOT: The department is made up of over 2,500 hard working professionals that come to work each day to collaborate and cooperate in a collective effort to deliver to the taxpayer the core function of government that is a transportation system.
A current project or initiative we’re working on: Increased recurring revenue for the MDOT. We succeeded this year. It’s the first time our revenue stream has increased substantially since 1987.
One thing people may not know about me: I love to read. All nonfiction.
