Mel Barber - Managing Director at NEC New Zealand

Aline Frantzen is the Chief Operating Officer at Metro Trains Melbourne. In this episode of the Women Who Move Nations podcast proudly sponsored by NEC, Aline joins host Michelle Batsas, and dives deep into her rich international experience and her leadership in enhancing Melbourne's public transport. Aline shares insights from managing diverse transport networks across three continents and discusses challenges and innovations in urban mobility. From integrating advanced technologies to prioritising customer-centric strategies, discover how Aline's approach is shaping more efficient and inclusive transport services. A crucial conversation for those interested in the transformative impact of experienced leadership in public transportation.

Dr Dia Adhikari Smith is a leading research academic at the University of Queensland. In this episode of the Women Who Move Nations podcast, proudly sponsored by NEC, Dia talks to guest host and one of PTAANZ’s Emerging Mobility Leaders, Caitlin Mowatt, about her significant contributions to the decarbonisation of transport through her extensive work with electric, hydrogen, and advanced biofuel technologies. Dia discusses the integration of renewable energy sources and smart grid technologies into public transport, offering insights into the future of low and zero-emission vehicles. Dia also shares her journey from electrical engineering to pioneering decarbonisation research, emphasising the critical role of cross-sector collaboration in driving sustainable transport solutions globally. A not-to-be-missed episode highlighting the strides women are making across the public transport industry for a more sustainable future.  

Trudi Mares is the Deputy Secretary at Transport for NSW. In this episode of the Women Who Move Nations podcast, proudly sponsored by NEC, Trudi talks to host Michelle Batsas about transformative changes in NSW transport. Trudi delves into enhancing network reliability to increase patronage, with a strong focus on equitable access. Trudi shares her pivotal transition from corporate affairs roles to spearheading strategic planning and public transport operations. Discover her innovative approach to integrating transport services with urban development and her proactive strategies for overcoming fiscal constraints and improving customer experiences. A not-to-be-missed dialogue for those passionate about the evolution of public transport systems. 

The Hon. Minister Williams MP is Victoria's Minister for Public Transport and Active Modes and shares her fascinating journey from practicing law to becoming a key political figure in Victoria, with host Michelle Batsas. With a remit that includes driving major public transport infrastructure initiatives, like the Metro Tunnel, she advocates daily for the needs of Victorians. This episode, proudly sponsored by NEC, delves into her decade in politics, the challenges of juggling leadership with her personal journey of starting a family, and her commitment to creating equitable and sustainable transport solutions. Minister Williams' personal stories and policy insights offer a rare glimpse into the complexities of governing and the dedication required to shape public policy. 

Cassie Hames is a programmer at SAGE Automation who has lived experienced as a professional with impaired vision. She discusses her role at SAGE with host, Michelle Batsas, including the development of the See Me app which enhances public transport accessibility for users with impaired vision, and shares her personal journey proving her detractors wrong by becoming a programmer in the face of discrimination and harassment. This episode explores the intersection of leadership, gender equality, and technological innovation, highlighting the vital importance of inclusive design. Tune in to discover how Cassie's lived experiences have driven her to champion changes that make public transport safer and more accessible for everyone. 

Stacey van der Putten is the Director Public Transport and Active Modes at Auckland Transport and a PTAANZ Board Director. A trailblazer in the transportation industry, Stacey delves into her journey of integrating private sector expertise into public transport with host Michelle Batsas, emphasising the significance of inclusive leadership and effective communication. Discover how Stacey’s background has equipped her to tackle challenges and innovate within her field, particularly in creating safer and more inclusive environments for women in leadership roles. This episode is packed with actionable insights on fostering customer-centric solutions and supporting women’s career growth. Tune in to hear Stacey’s strategies for blending diverse experiences to lead change.

Michelle Sheppard is a Senior Diversity and Inclusion Advisor at Victoria’s Department of Transport and Planning. In her transparent and vulnerable conversation with host Michelle Batsas, Michelle details her personal and professional journey as a transgender woman in the transport industry. Reflecting on her own experiences struggling with identity and belonging, and feeling torn between men’s and women’s spaces, Michelle emphasises the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, particularly for marginalised groups, and how education and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ inclusion and support can demonstrate to young people that public transport can be an industry of choice for their future careers.  Tune in for an inspiring and courageous conversation on improving leadership by bringing your true self to work.  

Kylie Gorham is a Senior Product Manager at NEC Australia. In her interview with host Michelle Batsas, Kylie talks about the innovative edge of public transport. Listen as they unpack the impact of technology on operational intelligence and passenger experience. Kylie shares her career journey and insights, including the importance of travelling to different cities and experiencing the local transport networks first-hand to gain perspective on potential improvements. They discuss the role of Artificial Intelligence in enhancing public safety and the flexibility required to address evolving transport needs. Tune in to gain insights into Kylie’s leadership philosophy and her perspective on gender diversity in transport leadership roles.

This episode of PTAANZ’s Women Who Move Nations podcast features Mel Barber, Managing Director at NEC New Zealand. Guest hosted by Rowan Selwood-Eyles, Public Transport Advisor at Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency and PTAANZ Emerging Mobility Leader, Mel discusses her transformational leadership approach in the industry as she touches on public transport projects, community engagement, and the integration of technology like AI for enhancing public safety and accessibility. Explore insights on leadership practices, diversity in leadership roles, and the impact of mentorship. This episode provides a comprehensive look into improving public transportation in Wellington, and the broader implications of technology and leadership in the industry.

In the third episode of Season 7 of the Women Who Move Nations podcast proudly sponsored by NEC, your host Michelle Batsas welcomes Dr Nicole Kalms, Associate Professor and Founding Director of the Monash University XYX Lab. Dr Kalms shares her ground-breaking work on gender-inclusive urban design, diving into the challenges girls, women and gender-diverse individuals face within city design. Dr Kalms also shares how her team's research is shaping safer, more navigable cities. From responsive lighting to digital safety tools, the discussion illuminates practical strategies for transforming public spaces. Discover how engaging communities and leveraging technology can create more equitable urban environments.