Center Leadership Encourages Excellence in Management

The Volpe Center is pleased to announce that U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Norman Y. Mineta has appointed Dr. Curtis J. Tompkins to a two-year term as Director of Management Improvement Initiatives. Dr. Tompkins will work with Volpe senior management in implementing DOT-initiated enhancements designed to create a new vision for the Volpe Center, in which the quality of management will match the Center's technical excellence. Dr. Tompkins will lead, develop, and institute systems and processes for cost-based financial management, project management, procurement reform, and organizational restructuring. He will also promote and encourage the increased use of technologies that will create a more effective and productive organization.

Since the summer of 2003, the Center has deployed a series of carefully planned efforts that will improve its performance and transform its operation. There are two main thrusts to the initiatives. The first is a standardized approach to how projects are initiated, planned, managed, controlled, reported on, and closed out. Standard Practices are currently being implemented for all projects. The second is an integrated management tool called the Project Management System, which will provide project managers with the information they need to efficiently accomplish projects. This enterprise management tool will also provide a portfolio management information database, containing management-actionable data, to facilitate informed business management decisions and support long-range business planning. Additionally, the Center has established a Web-based Project Management Resource Center on the Volpe Intranet, where project managers can access valuable tools and reference materials.

Dr. Tompkins will work with Volpe Center leadership to formulate plans and continue activities that will enable the Center to transform itself into a higher performing organization. He will support the Volpe Center's mission to develop and improve the transportation system, consistent with the mission and goals of RSPA and the DOT, and the wise investment of federal dollars.