Empowering Women, Shaping Transportation: Jacobs Named WTS Employer of the Year

Jacobs has been named the 2025 Employer of the Year by WTS (formerly Women’s Transportation Seminar) at its annual conference in Toronto, Canada. This recognition reflects Jacobs' ongoing commitment to inclusive leadership in the transportation sector and its support for women advancing in the industry. 

Since 1977, WTS has worked to create a more inclusive transportation workforce. Jacobs has long supported this mission, with more than 100 employees across the U.S. and Canada actively engaged in WTS programs, local chapters and executive boards. 

This marks the second consecutive year Jacobs has received the Employer of the Year recognition from WTS.

“Jacobs' recognition as Employer of the Year is a testament to our unwavering dedication to advancing women in transportation through leadership development, mentorship and advocacy,” says Jacobs Vice President of Canada Operations Heather MacDonald. “This recognition reflects our commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives drive innovation. At Jacobs, we believe that empowering women and underrepresented voices in transportation isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s essential for building a smarter, stronger and more connected future."

Jacobs at the WTS Annual Conference

As part of the WTS Annual Conference, held May 7-9, Jacobs will lead three inspiring presentations:

• Lauren Doyle – “Building Bridges of Support in the Steel City”
• Heather MacDonald  – “Driving the Opportunity for Diverse and Inclusive Leadership in Fast-Growing Organizations While Building Transit and Infrastructure at an Accelerated Pace”
• Tonia Brown – “Building Impactful Mentorship Programs”

These discussions highlight the power of mentorship, leadership strategies and the role of inclusive voices in shaping the future of transportation—aligning seamlessly with WTS' vision and Jacobs' ongoing efforts to create opportunities across the sector.

Building a future on inclusion and innovation 

Jacobs continues to lead large-scale infrastructure projects across Canada with a focus on sustainability, equity and innovation. From major city transit expansions to environmentally responsible rail solutions, Jacobs is helping create infrastructure that enhances mobility and supports long-term environmental goals. 

“As Jacobs accepts the WTS Employer of the Year award, our focus remains clear: to champion an industry where diverse voices lead with impact and shape the transportation networks of tomorrow,” adds Heather. “Through  mentorship, leadership development and pioneering projects, Jacobs will continue to transform infrastructure and empower the next generation of professionals making a difference in transportation.”

Join Jacobs at the WTS Annual Conference in Toronto as we celebrate this milestone and continue building a future shaped by innovation, opportunity and inclusion.