RTD names seasoned transit leader for new position of Deputy CEO
RTD has named Angel Peña as the agency’s inaugural Deputy Chief Executive Officer. Peña was selected following a national executive search and brings nearly 25 years of experience in both the public and private sectors. In the role, Peña will be tasked with advancing the agency’s vision for an operationally safe, reliable, and customer-focused transit system. He will lead the day-to-day operations and management of multiple RTD departments and divisions, including Capital Programs, Safety and Environmental Compliance, Civil Rights, Contracting and Procurement, and Planning.
“Angel’s extensive background in transforming transit infrastructure, enhancing operational performance, and rebuilding public trust has prepared him well for this pivotal leadership role at RTD,” said Debra A. Johnson, General Manager and CEO. “I am excited to have him join our team of talented and passionate public transit professionals, where he can leverage his talents, expertise, and industry background to help address RTD’s current challenges and prepare the agency for the future.”
Peña, a bilingual customer experience and results-driven transit executive, has made significant contributions in the public and private sectors. His leadership has been instrumental in managing teams and infrastructure projects at some of the nation’s largest transit systems. Peña held senior leadership roles at the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), and the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) in Washington, D.C. His private-sector leadership experience includes serving as Vice President, Rail and Transit Leader for the Texas/Mountain Region at STV, Inc. In his role at STV, Inc., he collaborated with transit agencies across the region, leveraging his public sector insights to help improve service delivery, project execution, and long-term infrastructure planning.
"I am honored to join RTD and work alongside a dedicated team of professionals who are committed to serving the Denver metro region,” said Peña. “I recognize the challenges that may exist and see numerous opportunities for enhancing the services provided to customers, whom I look forward to meeting when I ride on the system. I am joining RTD during a pivotal time when the agency is focused on initiatives aimed at improving reliability, maintaining assets, and ensuring customers are satisfied with bus and rail services. Through extensive two-way dialogue and customer engagement, we will ensure the transit system reflects the values and aspirations of the communities we serve."
Peña holds a Master of Science in Engineering Management from The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. and a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from Universidad Yacambú in Venezuela. He is a graduate of the prestigious Leadership American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Class of 2017 and was recognized in Mass Transit Magazine’s “Top 40 Under 40” for his contributions to the industry.
Peña will start in the role of RTD's Deputy Chief Executive Officer on March 17.
