Garver leaders recognized at 4th Annual WTS Arkansas Gala

Garver leaders took center stage at the 4th Annual WTS Arkansas Gala, where several were honored for their contributions to the WTS Arkansas Chapter. Transportation Planning and Traffic Team Quality Control Lead Nicci Tiner, PE, PTOE, was named the 2026 Member of the Year for her outstanding commitment to WTS Arkansas and the advancement of the profession. Zach Reed, Program Controls Leader on Garver's Enterprise Solutions Team, received the 2026 WTS Arkansas Ray LaHood – Man of the Year Award. And Jessica Halbrook, Garver Bridge Team Leader and incoming WTS Arkansas Chapter President, was presented with the President’s Award recognizing her exceptional leadership within the chapter.

The gala brought together transportation professionals to celebrate the advancement of women’s careers in transportation and to support the WTS Arkansas Scholarship Fund. The event highlighted the chapter’s remarkable progress since its ratification in 2019 and honored individuals and organizations working to build a more inclusive transportation community. As the event’s presenting sponsor, Garver was proud to support a mission that continues to empower future leaders, expand opportunities, and strengthen Arkansas’ transportation industry.

WTS Arkansas 2024–2025 Chapter President Suzanne Peyton, Executive Director of Clinton National Airport, opened the evening by celebrating several significant milestones. Since its founding, the chapter has built strong statewide engagement, increased visibility for women in the transportation field, and raised nearly $200,000 for its scholarship endowment — allowing WTS Arkansas to award two scholarships this year. Peyton also recognized the dedication of the WTS Arkansas Board and introduced the 2026–2027 Board of Directors, a mix of returning and newly elected leaders poised to guide the chapter’s next phase of growth.  

Among the returning leadership in addition to Halbrook is Garver Senior Graphic Designer and WTS AR Special Events Chair Kristen Spickard. New board members include Garver Senior Office Support Administrator Julie Perry, who will serve as finance chair.

Garver was also recognized for its continued support of WTS Arkansas. Jerry Holder, Director of Enterprise Solutions, accepted a plaque on behalf of the firm. The evening’s awards and recognitions underscored the chapter’s ongoing commitment to elevating voices, advancing careers, and strengthening the transportation workforce across Arkansas.

The gala marked another meaningful step forward for WTS Arkansas and its mission to advance women in transportation. Garver is proud to celebrate its employees’ achievements, support the next generation of transportation leaders, and continue investing in an organization that is shaping a stronger future for the industry.