Best Workplaces for Commuters Director’s Awards

Established in 2026, the Best Workplaces for Commuters (BWC) Director’s Awards honor exemplary leadership and forward thinking contributions that advance commuter benefits and elevate employer recognition nationwide. Created to spotlight standout achievements across the BWC network, these awards celebrate organizations and individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to expanding mobility options, strengthening transportation demand management (TDM) practices, and supporting a more resilient and competitive economy. Selected by the Program Director, the honorees set a new standard for excellence and embody the collaborative, innovative spirit shaping the future of commuter programs. The awards are presented annually at the BWC Virtual Forum.

2026 Recipient: TDM Specialists, Inc.

TDM Specialists, Inc. was honored for its long-standing leadership and national impact in advancing effective transportation demand management strategies. In addition to its technical expertise and support for communities and employers, TDM Specialists led development of the Residential Site category within the Best Workplaces for Commuters program, expanding opportunities for multifamily communities to adopt and showcase strong mobility programs. Their work has broadened the reach of TDM practices, strengthened best in class standards, and helped shape new pathways for employers, commercial sites, and residential communities. Their collaborative approach and commitment to innovation embody the core values celebrated by the Director’s Award.

2026 Recipient: Marcus Moore, Fairfax County Department of Transportation

Marcus Moore of the Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT) received the Director’s Award for his exceptional leadership, community engagement, and dedication to improving commuter mobility and safety. His leadership and engagement with the Best Workplaces for Commuters (BWC) program exemplify the values recognized by the Director’s Awards, reflecting his dedication to improving mobility and supporting innovative commuter solutions. Fairfax County has been a committed partner of Best Workplaces for Commuters for more than 15 years, supporting employers across the region in meeting national standards of excellence in commuter benefits.

Celebrating Excellence in Commuter Programs

The Director’s Awards recognize individuals and organizations that demonstrate:

• Visionary leadership in advancing sustainable commuting
• Innovative program design backed by data and measurable results
• Collaborative approaches that strengthen community and employer partnerships
• Long term commitment to Best Workplaces for Commuters

Together, this year’s honorees represent the spirit of excellence, innovation, and dedication that drives the Best Workplaces for Commuters network.

Did you miss the 2026 BWC Virtual Forum held on February 5, 2026?  If you did not register for this event, you may access the video recordings and pdfs of the presentation slides for only $19.99.

Buy Access to Recordings

You will receive a link to access the recordings and pdfs for these sessions:

• Welcome & Introductions  - Julie Bond, Program Director, Best Workplaces for Commuters,  Lisa Staes, Associate Director, Center for Urban Transportation Research
• Sustainable Commuting at Inova - Speaker: Abdias A. Irizarry, Sustainability Program Manager, Inova Health System, Moderator: Theresa McMullin, TDM Outreach Manager, Fairfax County DOT
• The ROI of Commuter Benefits Panel Discussion - Panelists: Sabrina Green, Senior Manager of HR Operations, Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC), Jenni Smith, CEO/ Founder, Purple Unicorn  Moderator: Robyn Chiarelli, Executive Director, Greater Fort Lauderdale Transportation Management Association
• A National Perspective of Vanpooling - Speaker: Arlinda Karuli, Corporate Sales Manager, Commute with Enterprise, Moderator: Sara Hendricks, Program Deputy Director, Transportation Options Program, CUTR
• Unlocking Marketing Secrets: From Insight to Impact - Speaker: Courtney Standerfer, Siddall Communications, Moderator: Vanessa Wheeler, Communications and Marketing Officer, Transportation Options Program, CUTR
• Closing & BWC Director’s Awards - Speaker: Julie Bond, Program Director, Best Workplaces for Commuters

This is for those who did not already pay the registration fee to attend the Forum. Attendees receive access to the recordings as part of their registration fee.

Recognizing Organizations Setting the Standard in Commuter Benefits

TAMPA, Fla., January 29, 2026 (www.bestworkplaces.org) — Best Workplaces for Commuters (BWC™) is proud to announce its 2026 List, highlighting more than 780 locations across the U.S. and in Canada that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to providing efficient and innovative transportation benefits.

This year’s BWC™ List shines a spotlight on organizations that have emerged as true leaders in promoting efficient and cost effective transportation. These forward thinking employers understand that a well designed transportation strategy can be a game changer in attracting and retaining top talent, enhancing employee productivity and well being, and contributing to the overall success of the business.

View the 2026 Best Workplaces for Commuters List

“We’re proud to honor the 2026 Best Workplaces for Commuters. These organizations are truly transforming how people travel to and from work,” said Julie Bond, BWC™ Program Director. “In today’s evolving workplace, innovative employers — along with a select group of residential communities — recognize that offering a range of transportation options is essential for employee satisfaction and for building vibrant, sustainable communities. They demonstrate what’s possible when organizations lead with vision and commitment.”

As part of this year’s recognition activities, BWC™ invites members and industry professionals to participate in the 2026 BWC Virtual Forum, featuring expert presentations, best practice sharing, and insights on emerging trends in workplace transportation. Details are available at: bestworkplaces.org/Virtual-Forum

About Best Workplaces for Commuters

BWC™ is the national authority on recognizing and assisting workplaces that provide exceptional commuter benefits to employees. More than a recognition program, BWC™ provides expert guidance to help organizations develop and enhance their transportation programs. The program is hosted by the Center for Urban Transportation Research (CUTR) at the University of South Florida (USF).

BWC™ Virtual Forum spotlights the power of commuter benefits—February 5, 2026

Attendees will network, gain insights, and strategies for how to get the most return on commuter benefit investments

TAMPA, Fla., January 27, 2026 (www.bestworkplaces.org) — Best Workplaces for Commuters (BWCTM) is hosting its inaugural 2026 Virtual Forum, a half-day virtual event taking place Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET.

Presented by the Center for Urban Transportation Research at the University of South Florida, the forum will convene BWCTM members, partners, transportation professionals, and community leaders for in-depth discussions on exemplary commuter benefits programs and the future of employer-supported transportation options.

Designed for Human Resource leaders and benefits managers; transportation and TDM professionals; public- and private-sector employers; universities and campus coordinators; policymakers and government agencies; and residential and commercial site managers, the virtual forum blends expert presentations with focused networking sessions tailored to each audience segment. Register here: bestworkplaces.org/Virtual-Forum

“Employers are realizing that commuter benefits are not just perks—they’re strategic tools for improving employee well-being, retention, and sustainability,” said Julie Bond, Program Director of Best Workplaces for Commuters. “This forum is about sharing what works and helping organizations design transportation options that make a real difference.”

The 2026 Virtual Forum builds on BWC’s growing ecosystem of tools, recognition programs, and peer exchange opportunities that support organizations committed to providing outstanding commuter benefits. BWC recognizes, celebrates, and assists workplaces that offer high-value options—such as transit subsidies, vanpool and carpool programs, secure bicycle facilities, telework policies, and last-mile mobility connections—to reduce drive-alone commuting and enhance access to jobs, education, and essential services.

Best Workplaces for Commuters extends its appreciation to RideAmigos for their support of the 2026 Virtual Forum and their continued leadership in advancing commuter engagement and sustainable transportation solutions.

Event highlights

• Featured Presentations
  Insights from exemplary commuter benefits programs nationwide, with practical takeaways for implementation, innovation, and scaling.
• Audience-Specific Networking
  Dedicated breakout discussions for employers, universities and colleges, and commercial and residential properties to foster peer learning, collaboration, and partnerships.
• BWC Resources & Recognition
  Updates on BWC tools, member services, and pathways for organizations to earn recognition for outstanding commuter benefits.

View full Virtual Forum program

About Best Workplaces for Commuters
BWC™ is the national authority on recognizing and assisting workplaces that provide exceptional commuter benefits to employees. More than a recognition program, BWC™ provides expert guidance to help organizations develop and enhance their transportation programs. The program is hosted by the Center for Urban Transportation Research (CUTR) at the University of South Florida (USF).

Registration & additional information

Announcing the Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Professional Learning Series

CUTR is excited to announce a new education program designed especially for TDM professionals. Whether you’re just starting your career and need a strong foundation, or you’re looking to expand your expertise through insights from seasoned research professionals, this program is built for you.

• Learn in weekly online, live sessions using Zoom, recorded for convenient playback
• Choose your level of experience by tier: Core, Intermediate or Advanced
• Earn a microcredential and badge for each tier in as little as 10 weeks!

Learn more

BWC Connect 2026 Virtual Forum

Thursday, February 5, 2026 | 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET

The inaugural BWC Virtual Forum will convene BWC members, partners, and community leaders for an in-depth exploration of the topics they value most.

Featured speakers will present insights from exemplary commuter benefits programs nationwide. Participants will have access to focused networking sessions designed specifically for employers, universities and colleges, and commercial and residential sites.

Who should attend?

HR Leaders & Benefits Managers
Transportation & TDM Professionals
Employers (Public & Private Sector)
Universities & Campus Coordinators
Policy Makers & Government Agencies
Residential & Commercial Site Managers

Learn more & register today!

BWC Connections - October 2025 BWC Newsletter

In this issue
Renew your BWC Membership Today!
BWC Virginia Tour
Upcoming Online Panel Discussion: October 23, 2025
Save the Date! BWC Virtual Conference
New BWC Category - Residential Site

What's New!
Webinar: 10/23: Upcoming webinar: College & University EV Charging
Recording Webinar: Residential Sites
Member Benefits
Updated 2025 Commuter Benefits Guide for Employers
FAQs on Qualified Transportation Fringe Benefits

Tech Tips
How to check if you need to renew for the 2026 List

View Newsletter

Exciting things are on the horizon and we hope you are a part of what’s next at BWC! Our members are helping drive economic growth by providing transportation options that help workers be successful. We’re here to help you be a success by providing recognition, resources, and education!

The countdown to the 2026 List has begun! Be sure to submit your renewal application by November 30, 2025 to be included in the List Release event in January 2026.

More than 800 BWC worksites were recognized in 2025, committing to provide exceptional commuter options for their employees, students, and residents. Let’s make 2026 an even bigger year!

Renew Today!

On August 18-21, 2025, Julie Bond, BWC Director enjoyed an action-packed week meeting with many BWC members, partners, and stakeholders in Virginia.   Read more about the tour including pictures of the many events and people from Fairfax County and Richmond.  

View Tour

BWC Connections - View the July 2025 BWC Newsletter

In this issue
Upcoming Webinar: BWC Residential Sites
New BWC Category - Residential Site
How to Renew your BWC membership
Add the BWC logo to your Email
Join the BWC Chat & Stay Connected
Webinar Suggestions

What's New!
Webinar: Residential Sites
Recording: 2025 List Release webinar

Member Benefits
Updated 2025 Commuter Benefits Guide for Employers
FAQs on Qualified Transportation Fringe Benefits

Tech Tips
How to check if you need to renew for the 2026 List

View Newsletter