Meet Mariah Ray, our newly appointed SVP Public Affairs for Glydways. Learn about her journey and why Glydways aligns with her values.
In a well told story or a well developed plot, you will find a through line – a common theme or idea that persists throughout the narrative. If I were to define a through line in my career, which emerged by luck or by planning, or perhaps a bit of both, it is improving life in our communities. From an early career teaching elementary school on the South Side of Chicago, followed by a senior appointment in the mayoral administration of Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson, I experienced the rich rewards of public service work. Contributing to the betterment of society through my work was personally and professionally fulfilling, and I sought to continue that impact in my successive roles at FUSE Corps, DoorDash and Cruise, building partnerships between the public, nonprofit and private sectors.
My journey has now led me to join Glydways, whose mission to provide a cost-effective, scalable, sustainable and delightful transit solution resonates deeply with my professional ethos and personal values.
Glydways’ approach to transportation is not just about mobility but about accessibility. Here, I am poised to utilize my expertise to contribute to a future where access to efficient and affordable transportation acts as a catalyst for social mobility and equality.
Throughout my career, I have witnessed firsthand the pivotal role that transportation plays in shaping communities, for better or worse. Cities and neighborhoods thrive when their residents can easily access jobs, education, healthcare, and other essential services through a robust, multimodal transportation system. The reverse is also true, as many communities face major challenges around congestion and poor access due to historic planning and development decisions. The lack of reliable and affordable transportation options often serves as a barrier, entrenching economic and social disparities.
We often see these challenges lead to calls for expanding transit options. However, traditional public transit systems are too expensive to operate and maintain, much less expand, which means cities are falling short of their goals to provide greater access while also facing cuts to existing transit system service. The Glydways system, using automated, electric vehicles on a dedicated guideway, is not only safer and more reliable, but it is cheaper to build and operate. Deploying the Glydways system in a community will build vital connections to existing transportation options. By filling these gaps, Glydways has the potential to transform the urban landscape, making communities more livable and inclusive.
This approach aligns with my belief in the importance of government as a key stakeholder in addressing community challenges, particularly in improving infrastructure and access to transportation. By joining Glydways, I have an opportunity to be part of a team that values government collaboration and is committed to solving community challenges through public-private partnership.
Joining Glydways was an easy decision, because it gave me the opportunity to be at the intersection of technology and public policy, where I could influence the development of transportation systems that directly impact social mobility.
Access to affordable, reliable transportation is a powerful equalizer. It can enhance upward mobility by providing everyone with the means to reach educational institutions, engage in employment opportunities, and participate fully in community life.
My move to Glydways was fueled by a vision where technology and policy converge to create a more equitable society. It is here that I aim to contribute to a legacy of change, driving initiatives that ensure transportation systems not only move people physically but also uplift them socioeconomically. By doing so, we can unlock the true potential of our communities and pave the way for a future where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
