The CREATE Program: Accomplishments and Updates
UTC Fall 2025 Seminar Series
November 20, 2025
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency Program (CREATE) was formed in 2003 as a public-private partnership that works to improve the way passengers and goods move over rail within metropolitan Chicago. The final presentation will feature an update on CREATE projects from Velicia Goode, P.E, Freight Section Rail Chief with the Illinois Department of Transportation, and Rebecca Wingate, CREATE Program Manager at the Association of American Railroads. Scroll down to learn more and register.
Date posted
Oct 13, 2025
Date updated
Oct 22, 2025
Speakers
Velicia Goode, P.E. | Freight Section Rail Chief | Illinois Department of Transportation
Velicia is a seasoned civil engineer with over 20 years of expertise, shaping the future of transportation at the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). Her journey began with a Bachelor of Science degree from Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, FL, setting the foundation for a dynamic career. Before joining IDOT, Velicia honed her skills as an Assistant Roadmaster at BNSF Railway, gaining valuable insight into rail operations. She then embarked on a transformative path through IDOT’s Development and Training Engineers Program, launching her career in the District One Bureau of Materials. There, she progressed from a diligent Materials Inspector to a Mixture Control Area Supervisor and later took on the critical role of Physical Tests Engineer, ensuring the integrity and quality of transportation materials. In 2023, Velicia embraced a new challenge, transitioning to the Office of Intermodal Project Implementation, where she now serves as the Section Chief in the Bureau of Rail. At the heart of her work is the CREATE Program, a groundbreaking initiative to modernize rail infrastructure and optimize operations. Collaborating with key program partners, she is dedicated to driving innovation, improving efficiency, and ensuring the continued success of this vital program. With a wealth of experience and a passion for transportation excellence, Velicia remains committed to shaping a more connected and efficient future.
Rebecca Wingate | CREATE Program Manager | Association of American Railroads
Rebecca Wingate is the CREATE Program Manager at the Association of American Railroads (AAR), leading strategic initiatives to enhance the efficiency and reliability of North America’s busiest freight rail hub. She collaborates with railroads, public agencies, and industry leaders to advance critical infrastructure investments that improve network fluidity, reduce congestion, and strengthen the supply chain. A licensed professional engineer and experienced transportation planner, Rebecca has deep expertise in freight rail infrastructure, public-private partnerships, and project development. Her career spans Class I railroad design and construction, federal grant strategy, and data-driven communication. As a Fulbright Fellow, she researched European rail systems, bringing a global perspective to her work. Rebecca holds a Master’s in Construction Engineering and Management from Illinois Tech and a Bachelor’s in Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She is passionate about delivering rail solutions that strengthen North America’s freight network and drive economic growth.