Safety Seminar: Speeding

Improving safety for all road users – A Discussion Hosted by Alliance for Automotive Innovation

April 9, 2025 | 8:30 am - 10 am

asset_image

Speeding remains a leading factor in traffic fatalities and injuries. Join us for an important discussion on holistic approaches to reducing speeding-related crashes and enhancing roadway safety for all.

This event will bring together experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore effective strategies, programs, and technologies that prioritize a safe system approach to improving road safety.

Details

Date: Wednesday, April 9, 2025

Time: 8:30 – 10:00 am

  • 8:30 – 9:00 am: Networking & Coffee
  • 9:00 – 10:00 am: Panel Discussion 
Location

Mayer Brown Headquarters

1999 K St NW
Washington, DC 20006

Map

REGISTRATION

SPEAKERS

Beth Osborne, Director, Transportation for America

Beth is the Director of Transportation for America. She was previously at the U.S. Department of Transportation, where she served as the Acting Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy and the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy since 2009. At DOT, Beth managed the TIGER Discretionary Grant program, the Secretary’s livability initiative, the development of the Administration’s surface transportation authorization proposal, and the implementation of MAP-21. Before joining DOT, Beth worked for Sen. Tom Carper (DE) as an advisor for transportation, trade and labor policy, as the policy director for Smart Growth America and as legislative director for environmental policy at the Southern Governors’ Association. She began her career in Washington, DC, in the House of Representatives working as a legislative assistant for Rep. Ron Klink (PA-04) and as legislative director for Rep. Brian Baird (WA-03).

Rick Birt, Director of the Washington, DC Highway Safety Office

Rick Birt serves as the Director of the Washington, DC Highway Safety Office (HSO). In this role, he leads the HSO team in implementing evidence-informed countermeasures that ensure the safety of all roadway users. Rick has more than a decade of highway safety and prevention experience. Prior to joining District Government, Rick served as the President/CEO of Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD), a national youth prevention and activism organization focused on mobility safety, substance use, personal health and safety, and leadership development. During his time at SADD, Rick authored several publications for teen drivers and adult allies on matters of mobility safety and was often called upon by the media to speak on these matters. He has also consulted for highway safety offices and non-profit organizations in a variety of capacities.

Rick holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Urban Studies from Wittenberg University and a Master’s in Public Administration from the Ohio State University. Outside the office, Rick can be found as a volunteer at Washington Reagan (DCA) Airport behind the Information Desk, exploring bike trails within the District, or walking his pup, Phoenix, around the city. Rick and his wife are proud Ward 5 residents and continue their journey to find the best desserts in the District.

Jennifer Morrison, Director, Vehicle Safety Strategy, Mazda North American Operations

Jennifer Morrison oversees vehicle safety and compliance for Mazda North American Operations. She is responsible for compliance with federal safety regulations, crash testing and consumer rating programs, and the development of advanced driver assistance technologies for all US vehicles.

Jennifer started her career in transportation safety in the Office of Defect Investigations at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). She then spent 15 years as a Vehicle Factors Investigator and Investigator-in-Charge at the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) where she investigated over 70 major crashes involving trucks, buses, cars, and trains. The experience turned her into a dedicated safety advocate, focusing on collision avoidance, vehicle crashworthiness, and data-driven improvements to transportation safety.

Jennifer has degrees in Bioengineering from the University of Pennsylvania and Applied Automotive Technology from Montgomery College. She has held various leadership positions within Washington, DC based automotive industry groups, including the Alliance for Automotive Innovation and the SAE Washington DC Section, where she mentors and connects automotive engineers.

Sponsorship Opportunities Available

Please contact Cassy LaRussa for more information.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

asset_image