How does a transit-dependent child from Los Angeles become the Chief Mobility Officer for America's automotive heartland?
In this episode of Age of Adoption, host Keith Zakheim welcomes Justine Johnson, Chief Mobility Officer for the State of Michigan. Drawing from her extensive background spanning from the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission to Ford Smart Mobility, Johnson provides unique insights into how Michigan is pioneering mobility solutions beyond traditional electric and autonomous vehicles. She discusses the state's expansive approach to mobility—including micromobility, smart roads, and innovations like the multi-state $100 million Mach H2 hydrogen initiative—while emphasizing accessibility and climate resilience.
Johnson's fascinating journey from transit-dependent child to mobility leader offers a compelling perspective on transportation's evolution. She articulates how Michigan leverages its automotive heritage to pioneer clean energy transportation solutions, including the Toyota Mobility Foundation's $3 million Sustainable Cities Challenge award. For businesses navigating the climate transition, Johnson's insights illuminate how integrating multiple technologies—from hydrogen infrastructure to drone systems—creates resilient, accessible transportation ecosystems that benefit both industry and communities.
Justine Johnson serves as Michigan's Chief Mobility Officer, where she leads the state's advanced mobility initiatives and clean energy transportation strategies. With a robust background spanning from the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission to Ford Motor Company's Mobility division, Johnson brings unique expertise in transportation policy, innovation, and accessibility. Her experience includes launching NYC's Ferry Service, advising the Los Angeles County Aviation Commission, and teaching at USC. Johnson's approach combines her personal understanding of transit dependency with strategic vision, making her a transformative leader in Michigan's mobility ecosystem.
In This Episode:
(00:02) Introduction of guest Justine Johnson, Michigan's Chief Mobility Officer
(02:29) Justine's personal journey with mobility began in childhood
(05:22) Experience at NYC Taxi Commission during rideshare disruption
(07:12) Transition through various mobility roles to Michigan position
(11:03) Justine's Age of Adoption story focusing on individual impact
(15:44) Exploring Michigan's hydrogen initiatives and the Mach H2 alliance
(18:43) Closing thoughts
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About the show:
The Age of Adoption podcast explores the monumental transition from a period of climate tech research and innovation – an Age of Innovation – to today's world in which companies across the economy are furiously adopting climate solutions - the Age of Adoption. Listen as our host, Keith Zakheim, CEO of Antenna Group, talks with experts from across the climate, energy, health, and real estate sectors to discuss what the transition means for business and society, and how corporates and startups can rise above competitors to lead in this new age. Access more curated content on the subject by visiting, www.ageofadoption.com.
This podcast is brought to you by Antenna Group, an award-winning integrated marketing, public relations, public affairs and digital agency that partners with the world’s most exciting and disruptive companies across cleantech, mobility, real estate, healthcare, and emerging B2B tech sectors. Our clients are transformational and distinguished corporations, startups, investors, and nonprofits that are at the bleeding edge of the Age of Adoption. Visit antennagroup.com to learn more.
Resources:
Justine Johnson LinkedIn
Michigan Economic Development Corp
Antenna Group
Age of Adoption Website
Keith Zakheim LinkedIn