Lydia Benda

Lydia Benda, PE, PMP has a diverse and extensive work experience in various engineering and project management roles. Lydia started their career in 1986 as a Traffic Engineer at Barton-Aschman Associates, where they conducted research and wrote Traffic Impact Studies. From 1988 to 1992, Benda worked as a Project Manager/Civil Engineer PE at the US Army Corps of Engineers, leading cross-functional teams and managing large public works projects.

In 1994, Benda joined Ergoflex Inc as a Vice President, representing the company in trade shows and providing strategic advisory services. Lydia then worked at Arising Innovations from 2012 to 2015 as a Senior Project Manager, playing a crucial role in writing business plans and securing grants for the development of an exercise machine.

From 2015 to 2018, Benda served as a Traffic Operations and Permit Engineer at Kane County Division of Transportation, where they evaluated development activities, enforced permit regulations, and contributed to the vision of a safe and efficient transportation system.

Currently, Benda is employed at WeGo Public Transit, starting as a Project Manager - Engineering & Construction in 2018 and being promoted to the role of Director of Engineering, Construction, & Project Management in 2023. In their current position, they oversee all engineering and construction projects for major capital projects, coordinating with federal, state, regional, and local agencies.

Throughout their career, Benda has demonstrated their expertise in project management, engineering, and regulatory compliance, as well as their ability to coordinate and lead teams.

Lydia Benda, PE, PMP has a Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (1984-1986) and a Bachelor's Degree in Liberal Arts from Wheaton College (1982-1984). Lydia obtained the certification of PE, Professional Engineer from the State of Tennessee (August 2018) and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (November 2017). Additionally, they have certifications in Traffic Signal Field Technician Level II, Traffic Signal Technician Level I, and Work Zone Temporary Traffic Control Technician from IMSA-International Municipal Signal Association (March 2017). Lydia is also a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) by the Project Management Institute.