Jay Hietpas

Jay Hietpas has extensive experience with the Minnesota Department of Transportation, holding multiple leadership roles since 1996. Currently serving as Assistant Commissioner - Operations, Jay leads initiatives in autonomous and connected vehicle policy, oversees various projects, and co-chairs the Toward Zero Deaths program. Previous roles include Director of MnDOT Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAV-X) and Director of the Office of Traffic, Safety and Technology. Jay also managed the Innovative Contracting Unit and the Design-Build program during earlier tenures, contributing to the development of new contracting techniques. Jay holds a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Minnesota.