Transdev Leader Bradley Wright Named to Mass Transit’s 2026 40 Under 40
A Transdev leader whose career has been defined by service, safety, and commitment to people has earned a place among the public transportation industry’s rising stars. Bradley Wright, National Safety Director for Transdev’s Northwest region has been selected for Mass Transit magazine’s prestigious 40 Under 40 Class of 2026.
The annual recognition honors young professionals who are making significant contributions to public transportation through leadership, innovation, and a dedication to improving mobility in the communities they serve.
Building Safer Operations Through Compassion
For Bradley Wright, being named to Mass Transit’s 2026 40 Under 40 class was unexpected.
“I was surprised,” Wright said. “I definitely didn’t expect it.”
As Transdev’s National Safety Director for the Northwest, Wright supports safety initiatives across operations in California, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, and Idaho, overseeing programs related to regulatory compliance, OSHA readiness, site audits, and safety technologies. But his path to leadership began behind the wheel.
Originally earning a degree in social science and education to become a teacher, Wright entered transit after relocating and applying for a bus operator position. What started as a driving role grew into a career spanning dispatch, training, operations management, safety management, and ultimately, regional leadership.
A turning point came when he moved into training in 2012.
“Getting into training shaped the direction of my career toward safety,” Wright said. “I’ve always believed there isn’t much gray area when it comes to doing the right thing.”
Today, that passion extends beyond his Transdev responsibilities. In addition to supporting locations across the country, Wright serves as an associate instructor with the Transportation Safety Institute, helping advance safety knowledge and best practices throughout the industry.
His leadership philosophy is rooted in communication, trust, and visibility. Rather than relying solely on policies and procedures, Wright believes a strong safety culture is built through relationships and engagement.
”Don’t lose sight of who we’re here for. It’s not about me, and it’s not about you. It’s about the passengers.
Bradley WrightRegional Safety Director, Transdev U.S.
That commitment is particularly evident in his appreciation for paratransit service and the independence it provides for riders who rely on public transportation most.
“Compassion is one of the key components,” Wright said. “You don’t matter without those passengers.”
Colleagues describe Wright as a leader who consistently puts people first. Whether supporting employees through operational challenges, guiding locations through regulatory issues, or helping staff navigate the impacts of major wildfire events across the Northwest, he is known for bringing steadiness, empathy, and practical solutions.
His commitment to supporting others is informed by personal experience. After losing his own home in California’s devastating Camp Fire in 2018, Wright has helped others by facing similar hardships, navigating the immediate aftermath and the long journey of rebuilding.
The same dedication to service extends into his community. A board member for Butte County Young Life and a volunteer with the Chico Area Recreation District, Wright has spent years coaching youth sports, helping young athletes of all abilities build confidence, resilience, and teamwork.
Wright credits Transdev’s culture for providing opportunities to grow throughout his career.
“Transdev gives people opportunities to grow,” he said. “There’s a lot of care and compassion around safety. The company gives us the resources and flexibility to do what’s right for each location and support people the way they need to be supported.”
From frontline operator to industry instructor and regional safety leader, Wright’s career reflects a consistent commitment to developing people, strengthening safety culture, and ensuring every employee and passenger goes home safely. It’s that combination of service, leadership, and compassion that earned him a place among Mass Transit’s 2026 40 Under 40 honorees.
Celebrating the Future of Transit Leadership
Wright’s selection to Mass Transit’s 2026 40 Under 40 class reflects not only his individual achievements but also the impact Transdev employees make every day in the communities they serve. As the transit industry continues to evolve, leaders like Wright are helping shape a future defined by innovation, compassion, and a relentless focus on improving mobility for all.
