Mr. David S. Ekern, P.E. is an independent consultant, offering services in solving strategic transportation issues and initiatives. He is a professional engineer and career transportation professional, with 50 years of experience in all phases and functions in transportation planning, construction, operations and leadership.
He was appointed by Governor Timothy Kaine in 2006 to lead the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) the 3rd largest DOT in the country. Prior to joining VDOT, he was Director of the Idaho Transportation Department from 2003 to 2006.
From 1965 to 2003 he had a career with the Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) and worked with the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). During his tenure with Mn/DOT he rose to the level of Assistant Commissioner and spent 13 years (1983-1996) serving the communities on the Iron Range and Northeastern Minnesota as Maintenance/Operations Engineer in Virginia and District Engineer in Duluth.
He is a member of numerous professional associations and societies, has earned the standing of Fellow in the American Society of Civil Engineers, served on the National Academy of Sciences Transportation Research Board Executive Committee and was member of the AASHTO Board of Directors.
He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Minnesota and his Masters in Business Administration from the University of St. Thomas.