NATHANIEL P. FORD SR.

CEO, JACKSONVILLE TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY, JACKSONVILLE

The JTA is an independent agency with 819 employees that serves Jacksonville and Northeast Florida by providing Bus Rapid Transit and fixed-route bus services, paratransit services, the St. Johns River Ferry, the Skyway Automated People Mover, roads and bridge building, and other mobility services. JTA fosters economic growth and development and connects communities to a multitude of services across Jacksonville. Ford has advocated for and implemented holistic mobility solutions to reduce traffic congestion and improve on-time arrival rates.

EDUCATION: Mercer University (BA), Jacksonville University (MBA)

MENTOR: My father was my first and greatest mentor. I saw his dedication and passion for public service and the gratification that comes from it, even when others didn’t see it. To this day, I still seek advice on life and leadership from my dad.

READING: The Power Broker, by Robert Caro, detailing Robert Moses' impact on infrastructure in the United States. The book offers valuable insights into infrastructure planning and the long-term consequences of leadership decisions.

WHAT I’VE LEARNED: In the very early stages of my career, transportation was all about numbers, spreadsheets and rush-hours. But as I grew more senior, I learned through years of experience and mentorship to focus on people. My driving vision is centered on improving the lives of people.