Thomas Marchessault

Thomas Marchessault has more than 30 years experience in national transportation policy with an emphasis on the implementation of technology in the nation’s transportation system.

He had a major role in the formation of a number of DOT technology programs, including the Intelligent Transportation Systems Program, the DOT Remote Sensing in Transportation Program.  He was an Acting Deputy Associate Administrator for Research Development and Technology in both RITA and its predecessor, the Research and Special Programs Administration, responsible for developing and implementing the DOT research, development, and technology planning process, and several multimodal technology research programs.  While in RITA, he had oversight of the DOT’s University Transportation Centers Program and a program developing safety standards for the use of hydrogen as a vehicle fuel.  During this tenure, he oversaw the successful implementation of the DOT University Transportation Centers enacted by SAFETEA-LU that grew the program from 27 Centers to 60 Centers.

Over the years Mr. Marchessault has received numerous awards and recognitions.  In 1985 he received the Secretary’s Award for Meritorious Achievement (Silver Medal) for his economic analysis of the Department’s maritime construction subsidy repayment program.  His other recognitions include the Secretary’s Award for Partnering Excellence (Strategic Planning, 2000) the Assistant Secretary’s Award for Superior Achievement (Intelligent Transportation System, 1991 –Bronze Medal) a Certificate of Appreciation from the Intelligent Vehicle Highway System Society of America (1991), and a Certification of Accommodation and Appreciation from the Council of University Transportation Centers, (October 2007.)

Mr. Marchessault received his undergraduate training in Economics at the University of Massachusetts in Boston and did graduate studies in Economics at the University of Maryland.

He is married, with one grown son, two grandchildren and lives in the Kentlands New Urbanist Community in Gaithersburg, Maryland where he is active in community affairs.  He is currently a member of the Board of Supervisors of Elections for the city of Gaithersburg, Maryland.  He is an avid photographer and struggling golfer