UTEP | College of Engineering

UTEP Engineering Alumnus Confirmed as Federal Highway Administrator

Victor Mendez

Victor M. Mendez was nominated by President Barack Obama to serve as the leader of the Federal Highway Administration and was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on July 17.

As the nation’s top federal highway official, Mendez will work to ensure the safety and efficiency of the American Interstate Highway System. He will oversee freight operations, bridge, highway and road maintenance, and highway and road construction.

Mendez was previously the director of the Arizona Department of Transportation, where he supervised a large freeway expansion project that was completed six years ahead of schedule.

During his 24-year career he implemented innovations in management, funding, financing, research, technology, infrastructure and planning.

He earned his bachelor’s in civil engineering from UTEP in 1980 and a master’s of business administration from Arizona State University in 1994.

Mendez is the past president of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.