Former NJ Transit Chief Joins Rutgers School of Engineering as Senior Fellow of Transportation Studies
Kevin Corbett led one of the nation’s largest public transportation systems since 2018
Kevin Corbett, the former president and chief executive officer of NJ Transit, will join the Rutgers School of Engineering on Feb. 15 as a senior fellow of transportation studies.
Corbett, who led the state organization for seven years, brings extensive experience in advancing transportation solutions for New Jersey and the region.
“I am very excited to join Rutgers University as a senior fellow of transportation studies,” said Corbett. “This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the university and the School of Engineering’s dynamic transportation portfolio. I am eager to share my experience and knowledge with future transportation professionals, fostering their growth and innovation.”
He added, “Mentoring students, young faculty and research professionals will be a key focus, as we work together to develop creative solutions to transportation challenges in New Jersey, the region and the nation. I look forward to making a meaningful impact and advancing the field through collaboration and innovation at Rutgers.”
As a senior fellow, Corbett will collaborate with the Center for Advanced Infrastructure and Transportation, a nationally designated University Transportation Center within the School of Engineering and supported by the U.S. Department of Transportation. In this role, he will represent the school and research center, mentor students and faculty, contribute to ongoing research initiatives and facilitate external partnerships and opportunities for the center.
“We look forward to Kevin’s continued involvement in the state’s transportation sector through advocacy and insight as we work together to advance innovative transportation solutions that serve not just the people of New Jersey but lead the nation in public transit that is sustainable, efficient and affordable,” said Alberto Cuitiño, dean of the School of Engineering.
Corbett has long supported academic research to drive progress and innovation in transit systems and infrastructure development.
Alongside members of the research center, he played a key role in launching the North American Regional Training Center of the International Association of Public Transport, which fosters training and develops next-generation transit leaders. Additionally, Corbett partnered with the center on research projects, including one funded by a $1.6 million U.S. Department of Transportation grant to develop artificial intelligence-based systems for improving safety at light-rail grade crossings.
“As a senior transportation fellow, Kevin will enhance the university’s research and education in transportation,” said Ali Maher, director of the center and a professor of civil and environmental engineering at Rutgers. “He will provide mentorship to faculty and students in research and development while connecting them to national and international opportunities through agencies such as the Federal Transit Administration, the American Public Transportation Association and the International Association of Public Transit (UITP). We are thrilled to welcome him and look forward to his role in advancing transportation initiatives and fostering meaningful collaborations on a broader scale."
Appointed by Gov. Phil Murphy in 2018, Corbett led efforts to modernize and enhance New Jersey’s mass transit system.
Notable achievements during Corbett’s tenure include the implementation of Positive Train Control systems, initiating the replacement project of the century-old Portal Bridge over the Hackensack River, the introduction of NJ Transit’s first-ever electric buses, the restoration of the ranks of New Jersey’s locomotive engineers and bus operators, and winning recognition by the American Public Transportation Association as “Outstanding Public Transportation System” with 50 million or more annual passenger trips in 2023.
Corbett announced his resignation from NJ Transit on Dec. 9, effective Jan. 15, 2025.
Previously, Corbett held leadership roles at infrastructure consulting firm AECOM, overseeing major projects including Moynihan Station Phase One, the Second Avenue Subway–Phase One and Amtrak’s Gateway Program. He also led global marine and freight operations at DMJM+Harris and other AECOM subsidiaries.
Corbett’s involvement in the transportation field includes having served on the Executive Committee of the Regional Plan Association and Co-chair of its Transportation Committee and as President of the Maritime Association of the Port of New York-New Jersey. He also currently serves as the US representative to the Executive Board of the International Association of Public Transit. The Georgetown University graduate also serves as a Blue and Gold Officer for the U.S. Naval Academy.
